What you’ll learn in this article…
- Hawaii has no COAMFTE accredited MFT programs, so most students earn their degrees through online programs.
- Hawaii accepts regionally accredited MFT master's degrees for LMFT licensure, not just COAMFTE approved programs.
- LMFT candidates need 33 semester hours of MFT coursework plus 1,000 hours of supervised postgraduate clinical experience.
- MFT salaries in Hawaii exceed the national median, though the state's high cost of living offsets some of that advantage.
Hawaii has no COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs operating within the state, a straightforward fact that shapes every graduate school decision for aspiring therapists on the islands. Chaminade University in Honolulu offers an MFT-focused master's program, but students seeking COAMFTE-accredited training must look to online programs based elsewhere in the country.
The practical tension here is real: Hawaii's licensure board accepts graduates from regionally accredited programs alongside COAMFTE-accredited ones, which opens a wider pool of online options. However, applicants must understand exactly which documentation the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs requires before enrolling anywhere.
For context on compensation, Hawaii MFT wages exceed the national median, though the state's cost of living substantially offsets that advantage. Choosing a program with strong completion rates and manageable tuition is not an abstract concern for Hawaii residents; it is a financial calculation with long-term consequences.
Best Online MFT Programs for Hawaii Students
These nationally available online MFT programs all welcome students living in Hawaii, so you can earn a master's degree, graduate certificate, or counseling specialization without relocating. The list below focuses on programs with flexible delivery, rigorous clinical training, and outcomes worth the investment. Read the school cards carefully to see which program type and licensure pathway aligns with your goals.
Factors considered
- Outcomes and early-career earnings
- Affordability and net price
- Graduation and retention rates
- Accreditation and licensure alignment
- Flexibility for distance learners
- Program-level records maintained in house
- Original research on individual programs — cacrep.org
- National Center for Education Statistics (IPEDS) covering graduation rates, retention rates and student-faculty ratios — nces.ed.gov
- Federal College Scorecard outcomes data — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- CACREP accreditation directories — cacrep.org
Northwestern University
This COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy pairs a rigorous clinical curriculum with strong support for students balancing graduate school and work. Students complete 400 hours of supervised fieldwork through an approved placement, with advisors who help secure training sites. Course sizes stay small, and the admission process does not require GRE scores.
- COAMFTE-accredited curriculum
- 400 hours of supervised clinical fieldwork
- 25 graduate-level courses
- Synchronous classes capped at 15 students
- No GRE required for admission
- Placement specialists identify training sites
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, Graduate Certificate — Online
University of Southern California
A 60-unit, cohort-based Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy that can be completed in about 24 months. The curriculum puts equity, social justice, and cultural humility at the center of clinical training, with fieldwork woven into the schedule. Competitive scholarships from $15,000 to $30,000 are available for qualifying students.
- 60-unit curriculum completed in about 24 months
- Cohort-based learning model
- Supervised fieldwork integrated throughout
- Scholarships from $15,000 to $30,000
- Emphasis on equity and social justice
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, Graduate Certificate — Online
Prescott College
This Master of Science in Counseling offers a CACREP-accredited core with a concentration in marriage, couple, and family counseling, making it a practical route for Hawaii students who want a family-focused counseling degree. The curriculum addresses social justice and clinical skill development, and only one brief on-campus visit is required. A human sexuality counseling concentration is also available for clinicians with that specialty interest.
- CACREP-accredited 60-credit program
- Marriage, couple, and family counseling concentration
- Human sexuality counseling concentration available
- Three-day campus residency requirement
- Social justice lens across the curriculum
Master of Science in Counseling — Hybrid
California State University-Northridge
Designed for aspiring marriage and family therapists, this master's program moves through course material one class at a time in eight-week sessions, enabling completion in less than two years. The curriculum covers family therapy theories, ethics, research, diversity, assessment, and clinical intervention, and the program prepares graduates for LMFT and LPCC licensure. Graduates commonly work in community mental health, agency, school, and private-practice settings.
- COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's
- One course at a time in eight-week terms
- Can be completed in less than two years
- Prepares for LMFT and LPCC licensure
- Includes coursework in ethics and diversity
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
University of Oregon
This COAMFTE-accredited Couples and Family Therapy master's uses a small-cohort model and requires 90 credits of study, including 350 direct client contact hours. Training happens at a university-based relationship clinic and through community externships, with close supervision from faculty. A Spanish Language Specialization is available for students pursuing bilingual clinical practice.
- COAMFTE-accredited 90-credit master's
- Small cohort of 22 to 24 students
- 350 direct client contact hours
- Clinical training at university center and externships
- Spanish Language Specialization available
Couples and Family Therapy, Master's — Hybrid
Texas Woman's University
Texas Woman's University offers a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy that most students finish in about three years. The application does not require GRE scores or recommendation letters, and a thesis option is available for students considering doctoral study. The curriculum is structured around MFT licensure preparation and includes close faculty mentoring.
- COAMFTE-accredited MFT program
- Most students finish in about three years
- No GRE scores or recommendation letters required
- Thesis option available
- Bachelor's degree with 3.0 GPA required
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
Western Kentucky University
The Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling master's at Western Kentucky University is CACREP-accredited and places students in real clinical work at the university's on-campus Talley Family Counseling Center. The curriculum pairs classroom learning with direct service, giving graduates applied experience with couples, families, and individuals. Financial support through the department may be available to qualified students.
- CACREP-accredited counseling degree
- Clinical training at Talley Family Counseling Center
- Experience with couples, families, and individuals
- Financial support may be available
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, Master's — Hybrid
John Brown University
John Brown University's Master of Science in Counseling is a CACREP-accredited clinical counseling degree with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy, as well as play therapy and adventure therapy options. The 60-credit course of study includes a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship, and the program supports working adults through flexible scheduling. Graduates are positioned for LPC or LMHC licensure in most states.
- CACREP-accredited 60-credit program
- Marriage and family therapy emphasis available
- 100-hour practicum plus 600-hour internship
- Play therapy and adventure therapy emphases also offered
- Classes capped at 24 students
Master of Science in Counseling — Hybrid
University of South Florida
This 15-credit graduate certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy is for mental health professionals who want to build systemic expertise without entering a full degree program. The curriculum explores advanced therapeutic techniques and family-systems theory, but it is not designed to satisfy MFT licensure requirements. It suits counselors, social workers, and psychologists who already hold a qualifying clinical degree.
- 15-credit-hour certificate
- Six required and nine elective credits
- For counselors, social workers, and psychologists
- Not designed for initial MFT licensure
Graduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
Moody Bible Institute
Moody Bible Institute's graduate certificate in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling is geared to master's-level mental health professionals who want additional training with a biblical counseling framework. The curriculum blends clinical approaches with faith integration, and admissions include a group interview with faculty. Professionals can complete the certificate without entering a second master's program.
- Certificate for licensed mental health professionals
- Faith-based integration with clinical training
- Campus and online format options
- Interview required for admission
Graduate Certificate in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling — Hybrid
Why Hawaii Students Often Choose Online MFT Programs
Hawaii students seeking marriage and family therapy training face a straightforward reality: no COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs currently operate in the state.1 Chaminade University in Honolulu offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy program that prepares graduates for LMFT licensure, but as of 2025 it does not hold COAMFTE accreditation.2 For students seeking a COAMFTE-accredited credential, valued by many employers and required for some clinical settings, online programs from mainland institutions represent the most practical path forward.
The In-State Alternative: CMHC at UH Hilo
The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program that leads to Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credentials rather than LMFT. While both licenses prepare graduates for clinical practice, the training focus differs: CMHC programs emphasize individual counseling and diagnostic skills across diverse populations, while MFT programs center on relational and systems-based therapy with couples and families. Students drawn to systemic, relationship-focused work typically find MFT training a better fit, and that means looking beyond Hawaii's borders. For a broader overview of the profession, including education and licensure expectations, see our guide on how to become a marriage and family therapist.
Practical Advantages of Online MFT Training
Online COAMFTE-accredited programs eliminate the need to relocate to the mainland for two or more years, saving tens of thousands in housing, travel, and living expenses. Students remain embedded in Hawaii's communities, often completing their required clinical practicum and internship hours with local supervisors approved by their program and Hawaii's licensing board. This arrangement allows students to build professional networks in the state where they intend to practice, rather than establishing connections on the mainland and starting over after graduation.
Online formats also open access to a far wider range of COAMFTE-accredited programs than any single geographic region could offer. Students can compare curricula, specializations, faculty expertise, and cost structures across dozens of programs, selecting the best fit for their clinical interests and career goals.
Licensing Board Flexibility
Hawaii's licensing board accepts MFT degrees from regionally accredited programs, not only COAMFTE-accredited ones, for LMFT licensure eligibility. This policy means students have multiple viable pathways, but COAMFTE accreditation remains the gold standard for employers, especially those affiliated with hospitals, military installations, and national counseling organizations. The accreditation distinction matters less for state licensure but significantly more for career mobility and employer credibility.
How to Become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawaii
Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Hawaii follows a structured pathway regulated by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). Each step below reflects current DCCA requirements, from your graduate education through active licensure.
Hawaii LMFT Licensure Requirements
Hawaii requires 33 semester hours (or 44 quarter hours) in a master's or doctoral program to qualify for the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) credential, governed by Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 451J and Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 16 Chapter 88.1 These requirements set clear benchmarks for education, supervised experience, and examination before independent practice is permitted.
Educational Requirements
Candidates must earn a graduate degree from an accredited institution in marriage and family therapy or a related field. The 33-semester-hour curriculum must include at least 9 semester hours (12 quarter hours) in marriage and family studies, 9 semester hours (12 quarter hours) in marriage and family therapy, 9 semester hours (12 quarter hours) in human development, 3 semester hours (4 quarter hours) in professional ethics, and 3 semester hours (4 quarter hours) in research.1 Programs must also include a 300-hour practicum. Hawaii recognizes AAMFT Clinical Fellows as having automatically satisfied education and experience requirements, providing an alternative pathway for those holding that credential.1
Supervised Clinical Experience
After completing the degree, candidates must accumulate 1,000 hours of direct client contact within a minimum two-year supervised practice period. Supervision itself totals 200 hours and must be provided by an LMFT licensed for at least two years or another licensed mental health professional who has held AAMFT Clinical Fellow status for at least two years.1 For a broader look at what these post-degree hours involve across states, see our guide to LMFT supervision hours. Supervisors may work with up to six supervisees simultaneously. While Hawaii does not offer a formal provisional license, candidates may practice under the title "MFT Intern" during this accumulation phase, using an exemption in the statute that permits supervised work before full licensure.2
Examination and Application
All applicants must pass the National Marriage and Family Therapy Examination, administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards, with a fee of $220.2 Once the exam is cleared, candidates submit an application to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs with a $50 application fee and a license fee that was $396 as of the most recent published schedule in 2023.1 The application packet requires official transcripts, documentation of supervised hours (including supervisor attestations), exam scores, and a background check. Processing times vary, but applicants should expect several weeks for review once all materials are submitted. Hawaii does not administer a separate state jurisprudence exam; the national examination is the sole required test for LMFT licensure.2
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do you already have a clinical site or supervisor connection in Hawaii for your practicum hours?
Are you drawn to couples and family systems work, or does individual-focused clinical mental health counseling better match your goals?
Can your schedule handle synchronous class sessions that may be set in mainland time zones?
COAMFTE Vs. Regionally Accredited MFT Programs: What Hawaii Requires
Accreditation debates in marriage and family therapy have intensified as more students weigh specialized program approval against regional institutional standing. Hawaii operates under a dual-track framework that gives prospective MFT students meaningful flexibility, but that flexibility comes with documentation responsibilities that vary by program type.
What COAMFTE Accreditation Means
The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education grants program-specific recognition to graduate degrees that meet rigorous curricular, faculty, and clinical training standards in marriage and family therapy.1 COAMFTE accreditation sits on top of institutional regional accreditation and signals that a program's coursework, practicum structure, and supervision model align with national MFT standards. For students, a COAMFTE-accredited degree offers pre-validated coursework, meaning state boards recognize the curriculum without additional course-by-course review.
Hawaii's Licensure Requirement: Regional Accreditation Plus MFT Coursework
Hawaii does not require COAMFTE accreditation for LMFT licensure. Under HRS Chapter 451J and HAR Chapter 16-88, the state accepts a master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field from any regionally accredited institution.3 The DCCA Marriage and Family Therapist Program evaluates applications based on coursework content, not program-specific accreditation status. Chaminade University, for example, holds WASC regional accreditation and DCCA approval, and its graduates qualify for Hawaii licensure without COAMFTE standing.4
Documentation Requirements for Non-COAMFTE Graduates
Students graduating from regionally accredited programs without COAMFTE designation must submit additional materials to demonstrate equivalency. Hawaii requires official transcripts, a course-by-course worksheet mapping degree coursework to state content areas, catalog descriptions for each class, and practicum verification showing direct client contact hours, supervision hours, and clinical setting details.5 This documentation process is straightforward but demands careful record-keeping during graduate study.
Portability Considerations for Future Relocation
Some states mandate COAMFTE accreditation outright, restricting licensure pathways for graduates of regionally accredited-only programs. Students who anticipate moving out of state after graduation should verify destination-state requirements before enrolling. For a broader look at the profession's requirements and career trajectory, review our guide on how to become a family therapist. A COAMFTE degree simplifies interstate mobility, while a regionally accredited degree without COAMFTE standing may require additional coursework, supervised hours, or examination to qualify for licensure in stricter jurisdictions.
Cost and ROI of Online MFT Programs for Hawaii Students
For Hawaii students pursuing an online MFT degree, return on investment deserves extra scrutiny. Hawaii consistently ranks among the highest cost-of-living states in the nation, so every tuition dollar matters. The table below sorts programs by graduate tuition (lowest first) and includes institution-wide net price estimates, median graduate debt, and an ROI ratio based on the institution's median earnings at ten years relative to median debt. Note that program-level earnings after completion are not yet available for these MFT programs specifically; the median earnings shown are institution-wide, national figures from the College Scorecard, not Hawaii-specific salaries. Net price figures are also institution-wide averages and may differ from what a graduate student actually pays.
| School | Graduate Tuition (Out-of-State) | Approx. Net Price (Institution-Wide) | Median Graduate Debt | Median Earnings (10 yr, National) | ROI Ratio (Earnings / Debt) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cal State Northridge | $19,062 | $7,021 | $13,872 | $59,115 | 4.3 |
| Texas Woman's University | $15,900 | $11,963 | $19,218 | $56,544 | 2.9 |
| University of South Florida | $21,126 | $9,812 | $17,988 | $57,743 | 3.2 |
| California Lutheran University | $22,046 | $30,109 | $21,669 | $68,712 | 3.2 |
| University of Oregon | $33,379 | $22,182 | $20,139 | $61,324 | 3.0 |
| Oregon Institute of Technology | $36,164 | $15,706 | $22,500 | $72,273 | 3.2 |
| Drexel University | $39,261 | $38,509 | $25,325 | $84,648 | 3.3 |
| Syracuse University | $48,132 | $38,793 | $26,000 | $79,164 | 3.0 |
| Northwestern University | $54,655 | $29,167 | $15,000 | $89,363 | 6.0 |
| University of Southern California | $71,515 | $32,740 | $18,000 | $92,498 | 5.1 |
MFT Salary and Job Outlook in Hawaii
Hawaii's marriage and family therapy workforce is small but notably well compensated. According to the most recent state wage data, the mean annual wage for MFTs in Hawaii significantly exceeds the national median, though Hawaii's high cost of living absorbs a meaningful share of that difference. MFTs across the islands work in private practice, community mental health centers, and military-affiliated behavioral health programs, the last of which reflects Hawaii's substantial military presence.
LMFT Vs. LMHC: Choosing the Right Licensure Path in Hawaii
Hawaii students entering the mental health field face an important decision early in their education: pursue licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist or as a Mental Health Counselor. Both credentials lead to rewarding clinical careers, but they differ in scope, training emphasis, and local educational access.
Scope of Practice and Clinical Focus
The LMFT license, governed by HRS 451J, authorizes practitioners to provide marital and family therapy.1 This credential emphasizes systemic approaches, treating individuals within the context of their relationships and family dynamics. LMFTs commonly work with couples, blended families, parent-child conflicts, and multigenerational issues.
The LMHC license, governed by HRS 453D, authorizes mental health counseling with a broader individual focus.2 Licensed Mental Health Counselors often specialize in areas like anxiety, depression, trauma, career counseling, or substance use. While LMHCs can certainly work with families, their training centers on individual psychopathology and counseling theory rather than systems-based interventions.
Education and Supervised Experience Requirements
Both licenses require a master's or doctoral degree with a minimum of 48 graduate credits.3 After completing their degree, candidates for either license must accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised post-degree experience, a process that typically takes two to four years depending on employment settings and weekly client hours.2
The examination requirements differ by license type. LMFT candidates must pass the MFT National Examination administered by the AMFTRB, while LMHC candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination.2
For the LMHC pathway specifically, Hawaii requires 100 hours of face-to-face supervision and 300 hours of client contact during the graduate program itself.2
In-State Program Availability
One practical consideration that often tips the scales for Hawaii residents is local program access. The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a counseling program that prepares graduates for LMHC licensure, providing an in-state option for students who prefer on-campus learning or want to complete fieldwork within Hawaii's communities.
No COAMFTE-accredited MFT program currently operates in Hawaii, meaning LMFT candidates must complete their education through online or distance programs. For students who prioritize staying local for their graduate education, the LMHC pathway offers a clear convenience advantage. Those leaning toward the LMHC route may also want to explore broader counseling careers to understand the full range of specializations available with that credential.
Making the Right Choice
Consider these factors when deciding between pathways:
- Career vision: Do you see yourself working primarily with couples and families, or do you want flexibility to specialize in individual mental health concerns?
- Practice settings: LMFTs frequently work in private practice, family service agencies, and community mental health centers. LMHCs appear across similar settings but also commonly work in college counseling centers, substance abuse programs, and employee assistance programs.
- Educational logistics: Are you comfortable completing your degree online, or does having an in-state campus option significantly impact your decision?
Both licenses lead to meaningful clinical work and similar earning potential in Hawaii. The choice ultimately depends on which therapeutic approach resonates with your professional goals and which educational path fits your circumstances.
Hawaii has no in-state COAMFTE accredited MFT programs, but dozens of nationally accredited online programs accept Hawaii residents and prepare you fully for LMFT licensure. Your path to becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist is absolutely achievable from the islands. Focus your planning on two key decisions: choosing between COAMFTE and regionally accredited programs, and securing a qualified local supervisor for your clinical hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About MFT Programs for Hawaii Students
Below are answers to the most common questions prospective MFT students in Hawaii ask when researching programs, licensure, and career outcomes. Each answer draws on the details covered throughout this guide.
- Are there any COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in Hawaii?
- As of 2026, there are no COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs physically located in Hawaii. However, several nationally accredited online programs from mainland institutions accept Hawaii residents and satisfy the state's educational requirements for licensure. Hawaii does not mandate COAMFTE accreditation specifically, so regionally accredited programs with equivalent MFT coursework can also qualify you for the LMFT credential.
- Can I complete an MFT degree online and get licensed in Hawaii?
- Yes. Hawaii accepts master's degrees in marriage and family therapy from regionally accredited institutions, including online programs. You will still need to complete practicum and internship hours, which typically require in-person client contact at an approved site in Hawaii or another state. After graduating, you must fulfill the state's supervised clinical experience and pass the required licensing examination.
- What are the LMFT licensure requirements in Hawaii?
- Hawaii requires a master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy (or a closely related field) with specific MFT coursework, a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience completed post-degree under an approved supervisor, and a passing score on the MFT national licensing examination. Applicants must also submit to a background check and apply through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
- How much do marriage and family therapists make in Hawaii?
- According to BLS data, the national median annual wage for marriage and family therapists was approximately $58,510 as of the most recent reporting period. Hawaii-specific salary figures can differ due to the state's higher cost of living. State-level wage estimates from the BLS, when available, should be consulted for a more accurate picture. Earnings vary based on setting, experience, and whether you work in private practice or agency roles.
- What is the difference between LMFT and LMHC in Hawaii?
- The Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) credential focuses on relational and systemic therapy, treating couples and families as interconnected units. The Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credential emphasizes individual counseling across a broader range of mental health concerns. Each license requires a different master's degree focus, distinct supervised experience standards, and a separate national exam. Your choice should align with the population and clinical approach you prefer.
- How to become a mental health therapist in Hawaii?
- To practice as a mental health therapist in Hawaii, you typically need a master's degree in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution. After completing your degree, you must accumulate supervised clinical hours as outlined by the Hawaii licensing board, then pass the appropriate national examination. The specific license you pursue (LMFT, LMHC, or clinical social work) determines the exact coursework and exam required.
- Can I complete my supervised clinical hours in Hawaii while enrolled in an out-of-state online program?
- In most cases, yes. Many online MFT programs allow students to arrange practicum and internship placements in their home state, including Hawaii. You will need to confirm that your program approves the site and that your clinical supervisor meets both the program's and Hawaii's requirements. Coordinating early with your program's field placement office is essential, as clinical sites on the islands can be limited in some areas.
More Online MFT Programs Available to Hawaii Students
For Hawaii students looking beyond our top 10 ranked programs, the following online and hybrid MFT programs offer additional pathways to licensure. These schools welcome out-of-state students and provide flexible formats designed for distance learners.
- Master of Science in Counseling (Marriage and Family Therapy)
- Master of Science in Counseling (Play Therapy)
- Master of Science in Counseling (Adventure Therapy)
- M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
- MS Marriage and Family Therapy
- Couple and Family Therapy
- Marriage & Family Therapy, MS
- Master of Science in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)
- M.A. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
- Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling
- MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT)
- Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy (Psychological Trauma)
- Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy (Attachment Theory)
- Marital and Family Therapy (Family Court Mediation)
- MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
- M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A. Online
- M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy (Child and Adolescent Family Therapy)
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy (Couple Therapy)
- Master of Family Therapy (Trauma and Addiction)
- Master of Family Therapy (LGBT and Specific Populations)
- Certificate of Graduate Studies in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling
