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100%

of Clinical Training in our Clinic

250

Hours of Supervision

400+

Clinical Hours

Become an Outstanding Marriage & Family Therapy Practitioner by Learning From Leaders in the Field

Marriage & Family Therapist was ranked the #2 Best Social Services Job and #20 Best Job in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Jobs of 2021.

Our faculty has written the definitive book on the integrative and systemic approach to therapy. We teach this approach to those drawn to the field of behavioral health with a passion for relationships through our world-renowned master's-level program. We invite you to join our program — to become an outstanding therapist who partners to see change in your clients, research and therapy.

Why Choose Our Marriage & Family Therapy Master's Program

Interested in the online learning? Visit the Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy: Online Branch page.

19

Academic Courses

6

Internship Courses

10

Research Labs at Northwestern with MFT student representation

How You Will Learn

Receive theoretical learning in the classroom at Northwestern University and hands-on experience at The Family Institute for a comprehensive training experience with our full-time two-year program.

Join our program where innovative theory and cutting-edge research meets practical experience while dedicated mentorship from accomplished faculty supports your growth as a systemic thinker. Our graduates emerge as skilled, empathetic therapists and influential leaders in the field focusing on strengthening relationships and cultivating healthier families and communities.

Kristina S. Brown, Ph.D., LMFT, AAMFT Approved Supervisor
Department Chair, Marriage & Family Therapy Program
Kristina S. Brown, Chair of the Marriage & Family Therapy Department at The Family Institute at Northwestern University

Extensive Alumni Network

Expert Teaching Faculty

Systemically Focused Supervising Faculty

Who Are The Core Faculty

Expert therapists, many of whom are nationally-known, from The Family Institute teach, supervise and provide immediate feedback to help you develop and master your therapy skills.

I believe one of the greatest strengths of The Family Institute is the depth and diversity of its therapists. It was such a rewarding opportunity to be able to collaborate with and learn from seasoned clinicians.

Kate Kadleck
Graduate of the Marriage & Family Therapy Program

What Degree You Will Earn

You will receive an accredited Master of Science degree from Northwestern University so you can start your career in marriage and family therapy.

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), upon graduation, you will have met the educational requirements for clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. View the Graduate Achievement Data Disclosure Table.

Those seeking licensure must obtain additional clinical experience and supervision before qualifying to take the licensing exam. This usually takes two years. Consult AAMFT for more information about the profession and your state licensing board for more information about licensing.

Why Choose a Career in Marriage & Family Therapy

Visit

Attend an open house on campus or online to learn more about if the program is the right fit for you.

Cost

Access financial support and scholarships available to help you offset the cost of a world-renowned education.

Apply

Applications for fall admission are accepted between September 1 through December 2. We look forward to meeting you.