Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) at PLU
PLU’s Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) trains you to become a systemically-oriented, contextually sensitive marriage and family therapist who knows how to effectively and ethically address the diverse needs and clinical concerns of individuals, couples, families, and communities.
Our program values creating a community where everyone experiences a sense of belonging. As faculty and supervisors training therapists, and as students providing mental health services to community members, we share the commitment to address and counteract systemic issues of power and oppression that negatively impact individuals, families, and the systems in which we work and live. We are committed to continued growth and development as it relates to antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
MFT Highlights:
- 24-27 month program, 48 credit curriculum
- COAMFTE accreditation
- 500 of 1,000 direct client contact hours required for licensure in Washington State completed through the program
- On-campus Couple and Family Therapy Center where you’ll be guided through your first cases
- Guaranteed practicum placement through 13 local community mental health agencies
Why choose PLU's MFT?
On-Campus Clinic
At our on-campus couple and family therapy center, you’ll work through your first cases with faculty mentorship.
Accredited
We are one of only 5 COAMFTE accredited programs in Washington, which means you’ll complete 500 of 1,000 direct client contact hours required for licensure in WA.
Practicum Placement
PLU has established partnerships with 13 local community health agencies so you do not have to find one on your own.
Relational
In our in-person cohort model, students and faculty develop a strong community and support network. The relationships we build with each other make us more culturally aware human beings and more effective therapists-in-training.
Close to 100% pass rate
With a nearly 100% pass rate on the national MFT exam, our graduates are well prepared for careers in marriage and family therapy.
We Value Diversity
We value a diverse learning community. Together, we experience and are enriched by a variety of perspectives, ideas, belief systems, and ways of thinking.
I love the faculty – they're not just intellectual and capable therapists, they're also very kind. I love having teachers that I can respect because of their character and not just their credentials. They've been very supportive and they know their stuff. My cohort is amazing too, very diverse. -Kartene K. '25
CAREER PROSPECTS
The career outlook for marriage and family therapists is growing; employment is projected to grow 14% from 2025-2035 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Washington State Department of Health (2021), forecasts significantly increased demands for mental health services.
PLU MFT Students at a Glance
Students of Color
Students identify as LGBTQIA+
Students identify as having a disability
Our students come from a range of racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, various social class backgrounds, and a variety of religious and spiritual backgrounds. Typical PLU MFT cohorts are 10% male-identified and 90% female-identified.
*Statistics from PLU’s COAMFTE Annual Report (January 2026)
