Marriage and Family Therapy (M.A.)
Prepare for clinical excellence and professional licensure through a relational and evidence-based curriculum.
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Marriage and Family Therapy prepares students to become competent, ethical clinicians through integrative training grounded in systemic theory, multicultural competence and evidence-informed practice. Students develop the skills to assess and intervene effectively with individuals, couples and families across diverse clinical settings.
Application Deadline
Fall: June 30
MFT Admission interviews are part of the application process and will be conducted on an ongoing basis.
Why Specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy?
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is grounded in the understanding that mental health is not experienced in isolation. Rather than focusing solely on individual symptoms, MFT takes a broader view by examining the relational systems, communication patterns and family histories that shape well-being.
A Broader Clinical Lens
Students are trained to assess how individuals function within couples, families and larger social contexts. This systemic perspective allows clinicians to identify patterns that influence behavior and create opportunities for meaningful, sustainable change.
Evidence-Based and Outcome-Oriented
Family-based and relational interventions are supported by extensive research demonstrating effectiveness across a range of concerns, including couple distress and adolescent behavioral challenges. Training emphasizes structured, goal-focused approaches that promote measurable progress.
Versatile and In-Demand Preparation
Marriage and family therapists practice in diverse settings, including private practice, health care systems, schools and community agencies. The concentration equips graduates with adaptable clinical skills applicable across populations and life stages.
Professional and Personal Insight
Throughout the program, students develop advanced communication skills, emotional awareness and ethical discernment. The training process encourages reflective practice, strengthening their capacity to foster stability, resilience and connection in the lives of others.
Admissions Information
In addition to the University’s general admission requirements, applicants must submit:
- $75 non-refundable application fee
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (lower GPAs will be considered based on professional experience)
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Two letters of recommendation from faculty or professionals in a related field
- Professional résumé/CV
- Personal statement
- Departmental interview
- TOEFL (if applicable)
Prerequisites
Applicants must have completed 12 credits in the behavioral sciences, including at least six credits in psychology, with one course in Abnormal Psychology.
Program Requirements
- 57 (standard) to 63 (thesis option) credits completed over approximately three years
- Full-time enrollment (three courses per semester)
- 500 client contact hours, including at least 150 relational hours
- 100 supervision hours, including at least 50 hours of raw data (live or video) and 50 hours of individual supervision
- Successful completion of the MFT Comprehensive Examination
- No incomplete grades
- No grade below B- in any course
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5
- Maintenance of full-time enrollment throughout the program
Degree Portability and Licensure
The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, when completed in its entirety, meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of New Jersey.
Licensure requirements vary by state and are subject to change. Students seeking licensure outside New Jersey are responsible for reviewing the specific educational and clinical requirements of the state in which they intend to practice.