Northwestern University MFT | OnlineNorthwestern University MFT | OnlineNorthwestern University MFT | Online

The Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute (TFI) teaches aspiring therapists to treat clients from diverse backgrounds and populations and to consider relationships and the larger systemic context within their practice.The Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute (TFI) teaches aspiring therapists to treat clients from diverse backgrounds and populations and to consider relationships and the larger systemic context within their practice.The Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute (TFI) teaches aspiring therapists to treat clients from diverse backgrounds and populations and to consider relationships and the larger systemic context within their practice.

  • Intensive clinical training—students work directly with clients for six consecutive quarters during their practicum externships.
  • Faculty of leaders—courses are taught by professors who are passionate practitioners, leaders within national and international organizations, and contributors to prominent publications in the field.
  • Fully accredited program—the two MFT program branches, on campus and online, are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).

A Journey Toward Systemic Client-Focused Practice

50+

year tradition of training in marriage and family therapy at TFI at Northwestern University

21

months to complete for full-time students

14%

projected MFT career growth from 2021 to 20311—much faster than average

1

in-person immersion experience

Changing the Big Picture Starts with You


The online branch of the Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University combines evidence-based teaching and pioneering research in a highly collaborative environment that fosters clinical excellence. Students learn to conduct therapy with diverse populations and clinical presentations, utilize the Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST) framework to integrate knowledge from the field into their practice, and learn to demonstrate multicultural sensitivity and ethical competence.

Program Highlights

  • Live, weekly classes with about 15 students.
  • Supervision classes have no more than 6 students.
  • Scholarships and partner organization benefits available.
  • Assistance in locating approved clinical fieldwork near your community.

The MFT degree from Northwestern prepares effective practitioners to help families, couples, and individuals thrive. While an undergraduate degree is required, applicants without psychology or mental health education or experience are encouraged to apply, although foundational coursework may be necessary.

A master’s degree in marriage and family therapy is the first step toward preparing for marriage and family therapist (LMFT) licensure, the requirements for which vary by state.2 Once licensed, LMFT professionals can work with families, couples, and individuals in private practice, mental health agencies, and other behavioral health settings.

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Join a Cohort of Change-Makers with the Online MFT Program from Northwestern

1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021.) Occupational Outlook Handbook. Accessed August 14, 2023.arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference

2 American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. (2021.) MFT Licensing Boards.  Accessed July 24, 2023.arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference