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Master of Marriage
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Train to Become a Licensed Therapist in Just 20 MonthsHybrid, healthcare-rooted, and built for impact across families, systems, and communities
The Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program at SMU is uniquely grounded in the University’s 100+ year history of health sciences education. Students gain the clinical training and relational insight needed for licensure, plus the opportunity to specialize through branching program pathways. With a hybrid format, focused practicum experience, and a curriculum rooted in collaboration and community, this program supports your path from purpose to practice. 
Built for Real-World PracticeBe prepared to meet the rising workforce demand for licensed, non-prescribing behavioral health clinicians in healthcare and integrated care environments. 
Tailor Your PathChoose from two career-focused tracks, including Medical Family Therapy, to align your training with your goals. 
Graduate in 20 MonthsComplete your degree in under two years through a hybrid format that balances flexibility with academic rigor. 
Healthcare is in Our DNAJoin a university with a long-standing reputation for educating compassionate, mission-driven healthcare professionals, rooted in and shaped by the communities we serve. |
Practice-Ready from Day One
As an MFT student at SMU, you’ll go beyond learning therapeutic theory. From your first semester, coursework is interwoven with supervised clinical practice, preparing you to navigate complex relationship dynamics with cultural humility, clinical precision, and deep empathy. You’ll gain hands-on experience through 300 hours of clinical work (including 150 relational hours), building confidence with individuals, couples, and families across diverse settings. Every course, whether in trauma-informed care, lifespan development, or psychopharmacology, is designed to develop technical skill and therapeutic presence. You’ll graduate with eligibility for MFT licensure in California, and with the clarity, confidence, and competence to grow a career rooted in service. REQUEST INFORMATION |
Tailor Your Training to Your Career GoalsMFT – General Couple & Family Therapy
Versatile Career PathPrepare for community, outpatient, and private practice settings.
Relational Clinical PracticeDevelop skills to work with couples, families, and individuals.
Developmental LensWork across all life stages and relational systems. 
MFT – Medical Family Therapy
Healthcare-Based TrainingPractice in real medical settings with patients and care teams.
Biopsychosocial ExpertiseLearn to address physical, emotional, and relational health.
Interdisciplinary CollaborationWork alongside doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers. |
Your Path Forward, With a Plan
The Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program at SMU is a 20-month, graduate-level degree designed to prepare students for licensure in California. Students have access to federal financial aid, including Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS loans, as well as limited institutional scholarships. Our financial aid team will work closely with you to explore available options, create a personalized plan, and provide ongoing support throughout the process. REQUEST FINANCIAL AID INFO
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See Where This Program Can Take You
SMU’s MFT program prepares you to pursue licensure in California and step into a range of roles, from private practice and behavioral health clinics to schools and integrated medical teams. With a strong foundation in systemic care and hands-on clinical experience, you’ll graduate ready to support individuals, couples, and families in the moments that matter most. EXPLORE CAREER OUTCOMES |
Your Questions, Answered
What is the Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program at SMU?Samuel Merritt University’s MFT program is a hybrid graduate program that prepares students to become licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) in California. The program integrates clinical training, systems theory, and inclusive care across two distinct pathways. What are the specialized pathways offered in the MFT program?Choose from a General Couples and Family Therapy pathway for comprehensive clinical training, or a Medical Family Therapy track that prepares you for integrated behavioral health settings. How long does it take to complete the MFT program?The program is designed to be completed in 5 semesters (approximately 20 months). Students complete a sequential curriculum that blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. How do I apply to the MFT program at SMU?While the application portal is not yet open, prospective students are encouraged to request more information using the form on this page. Our admission team will guide you through prerequisites, application timelines, and required materials. What are the tuition and financial aid options for the MFT program?SMU offers financial aid through federal loans, university scholarships, and flexible payment plans. While this is a graduate-level investment, our financial aid advisors work with you to build a custom plan. Request more information to explore all your options. Where is the MFT program offered?This hybrid program is anchored at SMU’s Sacramento campus, combining in-person instruction with online learning and off-site clinical placements across the region. When does the next cohort of the MFT program begin?The first cohort of the SMU MFT program begins in Fall 2026, with classes starting on September 2, 2026. Early interest is encouraged as spots are limited. Is the SMU MFT program accredited?SMU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The MFT program will be pursuing COAMFTE accreditation in 2028, which is aligned with long-term licensure and academic quality standards. |
Accreditations
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Our Campuses
Samuel Merritt University offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and nursing certificate programs at four campuses in Northern California and online. 
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Take the First Step Toward Becoming an MFT
Learn more about SMU’s MFT program, including pathways, curriculum, and how to |