Learn More – M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy

M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy

Prepare to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in our COAMFTE-accredited M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy program.

Available in Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Online.

Get Program Details & Admissions Requirements

Time to Completion

Three years standard

Funding Options

Financial aid and scholarships are available

Class of 2026 Stats

• 90% job placement rate
• 93% MFT licensure rate

Program Description

Our M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy program emphasizes a systemic and relational context, centering on the interconnectedness of individuals and their environments.

Holistic Perspective:
We offer exposure to this comprehensive view, reshaping your understanding of traditional theories and preparing you to work effectively with a wide array of clinical populations:

  • Individuals
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Children
  • Groups across the developmental spectrum
  • Those coping with emotional, intellectual, and psychological conditions

Success in this field necessitates a robust understanding of scientific and theoretical principles of marriage and family therapy. Our program hones your ability to apply this knowledge to real-life clinical situations.

The three-year completion timeline is based on a fall start. Students beginning in other terms (e.g., spring or summer) may need additional time due to course sequencing and practicum availability.

Accreditation
Our program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).

commission on accreditation for marriage and family therapy education logo

Career Pathways

Marriage and family therapists can pursue employment within a variety of professional settings, including:

  • Mental health centers
  • Substance abuse and treatment centers
  • Hospitals – Schools and colleges
  • Private practices
  • Employment assistance programs (EAPs)
  • Community mental health agencies
  • Higher education

Locations

testimonial

Nazila Amighi, M.A., LMFT

Graduate, Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy program
“I really wanted to stand up to the stigma of therapy—especially couples therapy. I wanted people to understand therapy and not be afraid of it.”

Our Approach

The Chicago School Approach is an immersive, applied learning model focused on developing professionals who can address present challenges and anticipate future needs. It combines four core elements of The Chicago School experience—Education, Innovation, Community, and Impact—to give students a practical and solutions-oriented education.

Education

Preparing tomorrow’s integrated health professionals.

Highly regarded by academic leaders, 20 programs at The Chicago School have earned programmatic accreditation.

Innovation

Embracing next-gen learning and practice.

Several programs offer Immersive Residencies for skill building and professional guidance.

Community

Creating connection, inclusion, and belonging.

52% of students identify as first-gen, prompting us to build the First Generation Student Success Program.

Impact

Supporting individuals, organizations, and communities.

500+ community partners offer internships, practicums, and community service opportunities.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Degree

Connect with an admissions representative to get your questions answered, learn more about this program, and explore your next steps.