Best MFT Programs in Texas

Texas is the second most populous state in the country and one of the most diverse demographic-wise. Students interested in becoming marriage and family therapists (MFTs) will find plenty of demand in Texas upon licensure and plenty of opportunities to serve both rural and urban populations across this great state. But before you can start getting licensed, you’ll need to graduate from an MFT degree program. There are many to choose from in Texas — here’s what you need to know to start applying.
2026 Best MFT Programs in Texas
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX - Private 4-year - acu.edu
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dive into Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy, a comprehensive program designed for aspiring therapists seeking flexible, high-quality education. This COAMFTE-accredited degree prepares students to sit for national licensure while offering concentrations in areas like Child and Adolescent Therapy, Medical Family Therapy, and Trauma Treatment. With 60 credit hours completed in approximately 33 months, students gain practical training in couple, family, and child therapy, mental health intervention, and systemic assessment. Tuition is competitively priced at $799 per credit hour, with internship opportunities providing real-world experience.
- COAMFTE-accredited online program
- 60 credit hours, 33 months
- $799 per credit hour
- 5 unique concentrations
- Prepares for national licensure
- 100+ internship supervision hours
- Christ-centered learning environment
- Flexible online format
- Multiple start dates annually
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Medical Family Therapy Treatment of Trauma - Online Learning - Visit Website
Unlock a transformative career in mental health with Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT). This COAMFTE-accredited program equips aspiring therapists with advanced skills in couple, family, and child therapy. Designed for working professionals, the flexible 60-credit curriculum enables students to balance career and education while preparing for licensure. With competitive tuition at $799 per credit hour and diverse concentration options, students gain practical experience through 100+ hours of supervised internship, positioning themselves for success in various clinical settings.
- COAMFTE-accredited online program
- 60 credit hours, 33 months minimum
- 5 unique concentration tracks
- $799 per credit hour
- 100+ hours supervised internship
- Prepare for national licensure exam
- Christ-centered learning approach
- Flexible online format
- Multiple start dates available
- Practice settings: clinics, hospitals, agencies
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Child and Adolescent Therapy - Online Learning - Visit Website
Discover a transformative journey in Marriage and Family Therapy at Abilene Christian University's online COAMFTE-accredited program. Designed for working professionals, this 60-credit master's degree prepares compassionate therapists to address complex family dynamics. With flexible online learning, you'll gain practical skills in couple, family, and child therapy, complemented by specialized concentrations like Child and Adolescent Therapy or Treatment of Trauma. The program offers comprehensive training, including 100+ internship supervision hours, positioning graduates to sit for the national licensing exam and make meaningful differences in community mental health.
- COAMFTE-accredited online program
- 60 credit hours, 33 months
- Multiple therapy concentrations
- Cost: $799/credit hour
- 100+ internship supervision hours
- Prepares for national licensing exam
- Christ-centered learning environment
- Flexible online format
- Start dates: March, May 2025
- College of Health/Human Services
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Therapy with Military Families - Online Learning - Visit Website
Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) prepares passionate professionals to transform family dynamics through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. This 60-credit, COAMFTE-accredited program offers flexible online learning with five specialized concentrations, enabling students to sit for national licensure exams. Designed for working adults, the program costs $799 per credit hour and provides comprehensive training in couple, family, and child therapy, with intensive internship experiences and a Christ-centered educational philosophy.
- 60-credit COAMFTE-accredited program
- Online flexible learning format
- Five specialized concentrations
- $799 per credit hour
- 33-month minimum completion time
- 100+ hours supervised internship
- Prepares for national licensure exam
- Christ-centered educational approach
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - Public 4-Year - ttu.edu
Master's - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Master’s Degree
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University offers a comprehensive Master's in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy designed for aspiring mental health professionals. This rigorous program prepares students for licensure and advanced practice through a strong clinical focus, featuring hands-on training in a campus-based Family Therapy Clinic. Students gain expertise in specialized areas like addiction treatment, military marriages, and family resilience, with opportunities to work alongside experienced faculty and conduct social science research that can lead to academic publications.
- Campus-based Master's degree program
- Licensure preparation for LMFT
- Specialized addiction treatment focus
- Research and publication opportunities
- Large, experienced faculty group
- Clinical training in Family Therapy Clinic
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Meets Texas state certification requirements
- Diverse research specialization options
- Collaborative graduate environment
Master's - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Master’s Degree
Concentration: Treatment of addictions - Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University's Master's in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy provides comprehensive professional training for aspiring mental health professionals. This rigorous campus-based program prepares students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists, offering exceptional clinical experiences and research opportunities. Students develop specialized expertise in areas like addiction treatment, military marriages, and family health challenges. The program boasts superior faculty, collaborative learning environments, and strong career preparation, positioning graduates for successful careers in counseling, therapeutic practice, and potential doctoral studies.
- Campus-based Master's degree program
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist preparation
- Unique addiction treatment focus
- Strong clinical training opportunities
- Research publication possibilities
- Large marriage and family therapy faculty
- State certification eligible program
- Specialized research areas available
- Doctoral program pathway
- Practicum and clinical experience included
Master's - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Master’s Degree
Concentration: Family resiliency during health care crises - Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University offers a comprehensive Master's in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy that prepares students for advanced mental health careers. The program provides exceptional clinical training, enabling graduates to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists or Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselors. Students gain hands-on experience through the campus Family Therapy Clinic, work with distinguished faculty, and develop specialized expertise in areas like military marriages, substance abuse, and family resilience. The curriculum meets state certification requirements and offers robust research opportunities.
- Campus-based Master's program
- Strong clinical focus
- Large marriage therapy faculty
- Addictions treatment specialization
- Licensure exam preparation
- Research publication opportunities
- State certification compliant
- Practical career development
- Multiple research focus areas
Doctorate - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University's PhD in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy provides exceptional training for aspiring professionals seeking advanced clinical and research expertise. The program prepares students to excel in academic and clinical settings, offering comprehensive skills in therapy, research methodology, and professional practice. Graduates consistently achieve professional licensure and secure faculty positions nationwide, benefiting from a supportive, interdisciplinary learning environment with renowned faculty and extensive clinical experience.
- Ph.D. program fully accredited
- Campus-based Family Therapy Clinic
- 100% professional licensure success
- Nation's largest graduate-level faculty
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities
- Research spans diverse topics
- Strong clinical practice focus
- Supervised therapy experience
- Prominent national researchers
- Licensure hours count in Texas
Doctorate - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D.
Concentration: Military marriages - Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University offers a prestigious Ph.D. in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy designed for aspiring professionals seeking advanced clinical and research expertise. The program provides comprehensive training in family counseling, preparing graduates for academic and clinical leadership roles. Students develop high-quality research skills, gain extensive clinical experience through campus-based therapy clinics, and benefit from an interdisciplinary approach. With a 100% professional licensure examination success rate and nationally prominent faculty, this doctoral program equips students to make significant contributions to marriage and family therapy.
- Campus-based Family Therapy Clinic
- 100% professional licensure success
- Nationally largest graduate faculty
- Accredited since 1981
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities
- Extensive clinical training
- Research covering diverse topics
- Licensure hours in Texas
- Strong academic job market placement
Doctorate - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D.
Concentration: Substance abuse in adults and adolescents - Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University's Ph.D. in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy offers comprehensive training for aspiring professionals seeking advanced clinical and research expertise. The program prepares students to conduct high-quality research, provide advanced family counseling services, and pursue university-level teaching careers. With a strong clinical focus and exceptional faculty, graduates achieve a 100% professional licensure examination success rate. The program provides extensive hands-on experience through campus-based clinical training, positioning students for successful academic and professional trajectories in marriage and family therapy.
- Ph.D. in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy
- Accredited since 1981
- Campus-based Family Therapy Clinic
- 100% licensure exam success
- Nation's largest graduate-level faculty
- Interdisciplinary research approach
- Licensure hours count in Texas
- Research spans diverse topics
- Strong clinical preparation
- Nationally prominent researchers
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX - Private 4-year - smu.edu
Master's - M.S. in Counseling
Concentration: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Methodist University's Master of Science in Counseling with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) concentration provides comprehensive training for aspiring mental health professionals. This rigorous 60-credit program prepares students to work with diverse populations, offering specialized coursework in family systems, couples therapy, and clinical methods. Graduates can pursue state licensure and work in various settings including community agencies, private practice, and healthcare institutions. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical skills, ethical practice, and evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
- 60 total credit hours
- 3-year full-time completion
- Personal interview required
- Multiple specialization areas
- Supervised clinical practicum
- Licensure preparation track
- Diverse course offerings
- Flexible six-year maximum completion
- Internship opportunities included
- GRE may be required
Master's - M.S. in Counseling
Concentration: Licensed Professional Counselor - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Methodist University's Master of Science in Counseling with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist concentration provides comprehensive training for aspiring mental health professionals. Students gain advanced skills in therapeutic techniques, family systems, and clinical assessment across diverse populations. The rigorous 60-credit program prepares graduates for state licensure, offering specialized tracks and electives in areas like play therapy, LGBTQ counseling, and expressive arts therapy. Designed for flexible learning, students can complete the program in three years, with opportunities for supervised clinical practice and internships.
- 60 total credit hours
- Three-year completion option
- State licensure preparation
- Diverse counseling specializations
- Supervised clinical practicum
- Multiple concentration tracks
- Comprehensive admission process
- Interview required for admission
- GRE optional with high GPA
- Internship opportunities included
Master's - M.S. in Counseling
Concentration: School Counselor - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Methodist University's Master of Science in Counseling with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) concentration provides comprehensive training for aspiring mental health professionals. Students gain advanced skills in therapy, assessment, and clinical practice through a rigorous 60-credit curriculum. The program prepares graduates for state licensure, offering specialized tracks in family systems, couples therapy, and diverse counseling approaches. With expert faculty guidance and hands-on clinical experience, students develop the expertise needed to support individuals, couples, and families through complex psychological challenges.
- 60 total credit hours
- Three-year full-time completion
- Personal interview required
- State licensure preparation
- Specialized counseling tracks
- Clinical practicum included
- Multiple specialization options
- Diverse course offerings
- Three recommendation letters needed
- GRE may be required
Hardin-Simmons University
Abilene, TX - Private 4-year - hsutx.edu
Master's - Clinical Counseling & Marriage and Family
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Hardin-Simmons University's Master's in Clinical Counseling & Marriage and Family Therapy prepares compassionate professionals to provide transformative mental health services across diverse settings. This comprehensive program equips students with advanced clinical skills, ethical practice foundations, and licensure pathways. Graduates gain expertise in counseling individuals, couples, and families through rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical experiences, and a faith-integrated approach. With a holistic curriculum spanning psychological assessment, therapeutic techniques, and cultural competence, students develop the knowledge to make meaningful impacts in mental health treatment.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- 700 Clinical Experience Hours
- LPC and LMFT Licensure Paths
- 3.0 Undergraduate GPA Required
- Fall/Spring Admission Options
- Interview Required for Admission
- Multiple Mental Health Credentials
- 12 Psychology Prerequisites
- GRE Score Recommendations
Texas Wesleyan University
Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - txwes.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Wesleyan University offers a comprehensive Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy designed to prepare compassionate professionals for transformative clinical practice. Students engage in rigorous coursework and hands-on training, developing advanced therapeutic skills through research methods, practicum experiences, and evidence-based interventions. The program provides flexible degree plans and supports students' professional development with specialized resources, preparing graduates for licensure and meaningful careers in counseling and mental health services.
- Master of Science in MFT
- 6-hour and 9-hour plans
- Research methods course
- MFT Practicum included
- Located in Fort Worth, TX
- Graduate Counseling Program
- Professional licensure preparation
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy prepares passionate professionals to enhance family dynamics through comprehensive, research-driven training. The program uniquely empowers students with a systems approach, enabling graduates to become licensed therapists prepared for meaningful community impact. With a strong track record of national exam success and flexible three-year completion options, students gain real-world experience and research opportunities while meeting state licensure requirements.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 3-Year Typical Completion
- 100% National Exam Pass Rate
- No GRE Required
- Thesis Research Option
- Texas State Licensure Prep
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Fall Application Deadline: Jan 15
- Spring Application Deadline: Sept 1
- On-Campus Interview Required
Lubbock Christian University
Lubbock, TX - Private 4-year - lcu.edu
Doctorate - Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lubbock Christian University's Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (MCFT) master's program provides comprehensive training for aspiring therapists. Students gain advanced skills in addressing complex family dynamics, relationship challenges, and individual mental health needs. The 60-hour program integrates faith-based principles with evidence-based therapeutic approaches, preparing graduates for professional counseling roles. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, official transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. The curriculum emphasizes clinical practice, ethical standards, and holistic understanding of systemic family interactions.
- 60-hour master's degree program
- Faith-inspired therapeutic learning
- Experienced faculty mentorship
- Small class sizes
- Clinical internship opportunities
- Research engagement possibilities
- Comprehensive professional development
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Diverse clinical placement network
- Evidence-based counseling approaches
Houston Christian University
Houston, TX - Private 4-year - hc.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Houston Christian University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MAMFT) prepares passionate professionals to transform lives through compassionate counseling. This comprehensive 60-hour graduate program offers both online and residential formats, meeting Texas licensure requirements. Students develop advanced clinical skills through rigorous coursework and supervised practicum experiences. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse settings like private practices, mental health centers, hospitals, and community agencies. With a focus on research-supported techniques and personal growth, this program empowers students to make meaningful therapeutic interventions for couples and families.
- 60-hour graduate coursework
- 100% online and residential
- Leads to MFT licensure
- 700 hours practicum/internship
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Texas licensure compliant
- Comprehensive exam required
- National exam preparation
Amberton University
Garland, TX - Private 4-year - amberton.edu
Master's - Master of Arts - Marriage & Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Amberton University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy provides comprehensive training for aspiring mental health professionals. This rigorous 60-credit program prepares students to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists in Texas, offering in-depth knowledge of counseling theories, life span development, and ethical practices. Designed for working adults, the program combines classroom and online learning, with a competitive cost of $300 per credit. Students gain practical skills through extensive coursework and practicum experiences, positioning themselves for rewarding careers in community and social service organizations.
- 60 total credit hours
- Classroom and online courses
- Cost: $300 per credit
- Texas LMFT licensure preparation
- Next term starts 3/15/25
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Counseling skills practicum
- Focused on marriage/family therapy
- Multiple counseling electives
- Multicultural counseling emphasis
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Belton, TX - Private 4-year - go.umhb.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling - Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling
Concentration: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor offers a comprehensive Master of Arts in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling designed to prepare skilled professionals in therapeutic practice. This CACREP-accredited program equips students with advanced counseling techniques, multicultural competencies, and ethical foundations necessary for effective mental health intervention. Students develop expertise through rigorous coursework covering diverse counseling approaches, assessment methods, and clinical practice, positioning graduates for successful licensure and impactful careers in marriage and family therapy.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60 total credit hours
- Counseling core: 36 hours
- Specialized MFT courses: 12 hours
- Clinical instruction: 9 hours
- Comprehensive exam required
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Multiple specialized counseling courses
- Practicum and internship experiences
- Diverse course offerings
What is an MFT Degree?
A Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) degree program is a requirement for all individuals planning on working with families and couples in a clinical mental health setting. These highly intensive programs require several years of study and several hundred clinical hours working firsthand with clients in a supervised setting. Coursework will delve into issues that affect couples and families, such as marital or parenting issues and lack of communication, and work to remedy those challenges.
Why is COAMFTE MFT Accreditation Important?
Regardless of what type of MFT program you choose, always make sure that your program is accredited before applying. This ensures that the state board has approved the curriculum and that you will be eligible for licensure upon graduation. The main accrediting bodies for MFT degree programs are the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) and CACREP.
Can I Get an MFT Degree Online in Texas?
Online MFT degrees are becoming increasingly common, and these programs are readily available in Texas. National online MFT programs based out-of-state are also available. Keep in mind that while coursework is delivered online, you will still need to fulfill any in-person clinical hour requirements. If you opt for an out-of-state online program, these can usually be arranged in your hometown area. Several options for Texans include:
Abilene Christian University: If you’re looking for faith-based MFT programs, consider Abilene Christian University’s Master of Marriage and Family Therapy program located in Abilene, TX. This online program combines 60 credit hours with over 100 supervision hours to create a full-scope MFT master’s degree program.
Houston Christian University: Another online faith-based MFT degree program in Texas is offered by Houston Christian University. This Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy allows you to complete your 60 credits hours online, and the only in-person requirement is a 16-week intensive that takes place on-campus. All clinical requirements will be completed in this timespan, so you can rely on flexibility for the remainder of the program’s duration.
Short Length MFT Programs in Texas
Some MFT programs take longer than others. Longer programs (such as MFT doctorate degrees) can take as long as 8 years, while shorter programs (such as MFT master’s degree programs) enable students to graduate as early as two years from enrollment and become licensed shortly after. If your plan is to become a marriage and family therapist as soon as possible, this is the route to take. Below are a few examples of the shortest MFT master’s degree programs in the State of Texas.
School | Degree Level | Length | Attendance |
Our Lady of the Lake University | Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy | 2 Years | Full time |
St. Mary’s University | Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy | 2 Years | Full time |
Abilene Christian University | Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy | 2 Years | Full time |
Affordable MFT Programs in Texas
If you’re trying to save a little money on your MFT education, you’re in luck — Texas is one of the most affordable states in the country to get your MFT graduate degree with a wide variety of programs to choose from. MFT master’s degrees tend to be the most affordable option with the average cost of tuition costing around $26,353. Still, there are many MFT master’s degree programs that cost less than this in Texas. Here are a few affordable options in the state:
MFT Degree Levels
There are several different types of MFT degrees available, but the most common by far are graduate degrees. If you are unlicensed, you will need to graduate from one of these types of programs. Conversely, if you do not plan on getting licensed or you are already licensed in a different clinical mental health degree, you may want to settle for a graduate certificate instead.
Do I Need a GRE for an MFT Program?
It depends on the program. Some schools prefer going with the traditional GRE (Graduate Record Examination) route to measure an applicant’s academic success, while others (such as Texas Tech) have moved to more alternative routes. To find out if you will need to submit a GRE with your application, check out your program’s admissions requirements.
Master's Degree in MFT
There are many MFT master’s degree programs to choose from in Texas. These programs last approximately two years and require the completion of 60 credit hours along with a number of in-person clinical hours. On average, you can expect to pay an average of $26,353. Here are a few examples:
Texas A&M: Students located in Central Texas can take advantage of Texas A&M’s well-respected and challenging 60-credit Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. This program offers an in-depth look at the problems that couples and families face today and gives students the resources to develop therapeutic strategies to remedy these problems in their communities. The clinical portion of this program is conducted at the university’s on-site Community Counseling and Family Therapy Center, where students will be given structured, supervised learning opportunities to work firsthand with clients in Central Texas.
Texas State University: Students looking to become licensed and certified in a variety of mental health areas should take a look at Texas State University’s Master’s Degree in Counseling, Marriage and Family concentration. This unique program allows students to receive dual licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and as a Licensed Professional Counselor. It also allows students to work towards their registration as a Registered Play Therapist. All of these will assert your value as a mental health clinician upon graduation.
Graduate Certificate in MFT
MFT graduate certificates, while not degrees, may be a more appropriate option for certain students. These programs last about a year and usually cost between $1,000 and $1,500, providing a quick and affordable option for students who are already licensed in a clinical mental health field or have professional goals outside of licensure. There is currently one option for MFT graduate certificates based in Texas:
Sam Houston State University: If you’re already trained as a counselor but would like to designate a focus on marriage and family systems, you may be interested in Sam Houston State University’s Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Graduate Certificate program. The curriculum offered by SHSU is also catered towards any graduate student who is on track to graduate from or is interested in any mental health practice degree.
MFT Doctorate Degrees (Ph.D. or PsyD)
The final option for MFT degree programs is the MFT doctoral degree. There are two different types: a Ph.D., which prepares students for careers in education or research, and a PsyD, which focuses primarily on clinical aspects of the field. MFT doctoral degrees cost an average of $187,092 in Texas and last between four and eight years. Here are a few options to choose from in Texas:
Texas Tech University: The Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D. offered by Texas Tech University is a fully accredited program located in Lubbock, TX, that offers an affordable and expansive doctoral experience for MFT-focused students. Texas Tech’s program speaks for itself – students who graduated from their MFT doctoral program have had a 100% success rate on the licensure exam for the last seven years.
Texas Woman’s University: The Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy offered by Texas Woman’s University offers a comprehensive and fast-paced track to earning your MFT doctorate degree and entering the field as a researcher or clinician. The program only requires 54-semester credits and a minimum of three years of study and has no additional clinical hours beyond what is required in the master’s degree program.
Becoming an LMFT in Texas
Earning your licensure is the final requirement to becoming a marriage and family therapist in Texas. This is a multi-step process set forth by the state’s board:
- Education: Obtain a master’s or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) or a regionally accredited institution.
- Supervised Experience: Complete the required supervised clinical experience. In Texas, this usually involves accumulating 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience, with at least 1,500 hours in direct client contact. This experience must be supervised by a licensed mental health professional.
- Examination: Pass the National Examination in Marital and Family Therapy, administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). This exam assesses your knowledge and competency in marriage and family therapy.
- Jurisprudence Exam: Complete a jurisprudence exam, which assesses your knowledge of the laws and regulations governing marriage and family therapy practice in Texas.
- Apply for Licensure: Submit an application for licensure to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists. This application typically includes providing documentation of your education, supervised experience, examination scores, and any other required materials.
- Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check.
- Continuing Education: After obtaining licensure, you’ll need to maintain it by fulfilling 30 continuing education requirements every two years.
List of MFT Degree Programs in Texas
Abilene, TX
Abilene Christian University
- Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Website
- COAMFTE-accredited online program
- 60 credit hours, 33 months
- $799 per credit hour
- 5 unique concentrations
- Prepares for national licensure
- 100+ internship supervision hours
- Christ-centered learning environment
- Flexible online format
- Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Child and Adolescent Therapy - Online Learning - Website
- COAMFTE-accredited online program
- 60 credit hours, 33 months
- Multiple therapy concentrations
- Cost: $799/credit hour
- 100+ internship supervision hours
- Prepares for national licensing exam
- Christ-centered learning environment
- Flexible online format
- Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Medical Family Therapy Treatment of Trauma - Online Learning - Website
- COAMFTE-accredited online program
- 60 credit hours, 33 months minimum
- 5 unique concentration tracks
- $799 per credit hour
- 100+ hours supervised internship
- Prepare for national licensure exam
- Christ-centered learning approach
- Flexible online format
- Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Therapy with Military Families - Online Learning - Website
- 60-credit COAMFTE-accredited program
- Online flexible learning format
- Five specialized concentrations
- $799 per credit hour
- 33-month minimum completion time
- 100+ hours supervised internship
- Prepares for national licensure exam
- Christ-centered educational approach
Hardin-Simmons University
- Master's - Clinical Counseling & Marriage and Family
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- 700 Clinical Experience Hours
- LPC and LMFT Licensure Paths
- 3.0 Undergraduate GPA Required
- Fall/Spring Admission Options
- Interview Required for Admission
- Multiple Mental Health Credentials
Belton, TX
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling - Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling
Concentration: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60 total credit hours
- Counseling core: 36 hours
- Specialized MFT courses: 12 hours
- Clinical instruction: 9 hours
- Comprehensive exam required
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Multiple specialized counseling courses
Dallas, TX
Southern Methodist University
- Master's - M.S. in Counseling
Concentration: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - Campus Based - Website
- 60 total credit hours
- 3-year full-time completion
- Personal interview required
- Multiple specialization areas
- Supervised clinical practicum
- Licensure preparation track
- Diverse course offerings
- Flexible six-year maximum completion
- Master's - M.S. in Counseling
Concentration: Licensed Professional Counselor - Campus Based - Website
- 60 total credit hours
- Three-year completion option
- State licensure preparation
- Diverse counseling specializations
- Supervised clinical practicum
- Multiple concentration tracks
- Comprehensive admission process
- Interview required for admission
- Master's - M.S. in Counseling
Concentration: School Counselor - Campus Based - Website
- 60 total credit hours
- Three-year full-time completion
- Personal interview required
- State licensure preparation
- Specialized counseling tracks
- Clinical practicum included
- Multiple specialization options
- Diverse course offerings
Denton, TX
Texas Woman's University
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 3-Year Typical Completion
- 100% National Exam Pass Rate
- No GRE Required
- Thesis Research Option
- Texas State Licensure Prep
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Fall Application Deadline: Jan 15
Fort Worth, TX
Texas Wesleyan University
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science in MFT
- 6-hour and 9-hour plans
- Research methods course
- MFT Practicum included
- Located in Fort Worth, TX
- Graduate Counseling Program
- Professional licensure preparation
Garland, TX
Amberton University
- Master's - Master of Arts - Marriage & Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60 total credit hours
- Classroom and online courses
- Cost: $300 per credit
- Texas LMFT licensure preparation
- Next term starts 3/15/25
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Counseling skills practicum
- Focused on marriage/family therapy
Houston, TX
Houston Christian University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour graduate coursework
- 100% online and residential
- Leads to MFT licensure
- 700 hours practicum/internship
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Texas licensure compliant
- Comprehensive exam required
- National exam preparation
Killeen, TX
Texas A&M University-Central Texas
- Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- On-campus program
- 60 credit hours total
- COAMFTE accredited
- Fall admission July 1st
- Spring admission November 1st
- Summer admission April 1st
- Practicum in community settings
- Prepares for MFT licensure
Lubbock, TX
Lubbock Christian University
- Doctorate - Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour master's degree program
- Faith-inspired therapeutic learning
- Experienced faculty mentorship
- Small class sizes
- Clinical internship opportunities
- Research engagement possibilities
- Comprehensive professional development
- Requires bachelor's degree
Texas Tech University
- Master's - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Master’s Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based Master's degree program
- Licensure preparation for LMFT
- Specialized addiction treatment focus
- Research and publication opportunities
- Large, experienced faculty group
- Clinical training in Family Therapy Clinic
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Meets Texas state certification requirements
- Master's - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Master’s Degree
Concentration: Family resiliency during health care crises - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based Master's program
- Strong clinical focus
- Large marriage therapy faculty
- Addictions treatment specialization
- Licensure exam preparation
- Research publication opportunities
- State certification compliant
- Practical career development
- Master's - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Master’s Degree
Concentration: Treatment of addictions - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based Master's degree program
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist preparation
- Unique addiction treatment focus
- Strong clinical training opportunities
- Research publication possibilities
- Large marriage and family therapy faculty
- State certification eligible program
- Specialized research areas available
- Doctorate - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D.
Campus Based - Website
- Ph.D. program fully accredited
- Campus-based Family Therapy Clinic
- 100% professional licensure success
- Nation's largest graduate-level faculty
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities
- Research spans diverse topics
- Strong clinical practice focus
- Supervised therapy experience
- Doctorate - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D.
Concentration: Military marriages - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based Family Therapy Clinic
- 100% professional licensure success
- Nationally largest graduate faculty
- Accredited since 1981
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities
- Extensive clinical training
- Research covering diverse topics
- Licensure hours in Texas
- Doctorate - Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D.
Concentration: Substance abuse in adults and adolescents - Campus Based - Website
- Ph.D. in Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy
- Accredited since 1981
- Campus-based Family Therapy Clinic
- 100% licensure exam success
- Nation's largest graduate-level faculty
- Interdisciplinary research approach
- Licensure hours count in Texas
- Research spans diverse topics
San Antonio, TX
Our Lady of the Lake University
- Master's - Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- 60 semester hour program
- COAMFTE accredited concentration
- Multiple campus locations: San Antonio, RGV, Houston
- Meets Texas MFT licensure requirements
- GPA requirement: 2.50 overall or 3.00 last 60 hours
- 12 psychology undergraduate hours prerequisite
- Fall admission deadline: April 1st
- Criminal background check required
- Master's - Master of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit hour program
- Three-year completion time
- COAMFTE accredited
- Meets LMFT licensure requirements
- Saturday course schedule
- Small group learning pods
- Strengths-based therapy approach
- Multiple therapy model training
Texas A&M University-San Antonio
- Master's - Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, Master of Arts
Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour counseling degree program
- Meets LPC academic requirements
- Serves San Antonio community
- Diverse population counseling focus
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 100 hours clinical experience
- Practicum and internship included
- Professional ethics emphasis