Five Things to Consider When Choosing an MFT Program

Are you looking to further your education through applying for accredited MFT programs to become a licensed marriage and family therapist? There are several aspects to consider before choosing a program that works best for you. Not only do you need to determine whether you will study online or in-person, but you need to take into consideration the most efficient way to become licensed in your state after graduation.

Accreditation

One of the most important things to consider when researching qualifications for MFT programs are to discover whether educational institutions are accredited. They would need to be certified through the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) to be considered a valuable asset to your education and career. Most states require that the program you attend meet standards outlined by this organization so that you can become licensed. Accreditation standards will take into consideration the institutions mission, goals, and educational objectives. Once specific educational requirements are met, an institution will be deemed an appropriate student learning program.

Costs

Most accredited educational institutions provide many forms of financial aid to students so that they can obtain the education they desire. This may come in the form of grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. However, some institutions also offer loan-reimbursement programs that can help students plan their future accordingly. Another factor influencing the cost of obtaining an education are the introduction of MFT programs online. These types of educational programs can provide convenience for students who have a busy schedule with work or family or are trying to stay within a certain price range to meet their budget with educational expenses.

Performance

It’s a good idea for each student to research educational institutions to discover everything about them, not only to view their qualifications, but to review the quality of education provided to each student over a specific amount of time. This can be completed in the form of finding reviews of the institution online and checking their national rank. Each educational institution will have a variety of teachers with different skills and backgrounds. Also, each institution will have earned specific achievements throughout their tenure. The basic idea is that you want to find an institution that offers thorough education.

State Requirements

The most important MFT program option to consider are whether they will help you to become registered in your state of preference. While some programs are offered online, others are offered in-person in the state you live in. When researching online MFT programs, make sure that they can teach you what is required by the state where you want to work and become licensed in. For example, you would need to make sure courses in ethics and law will prepare you for state exams required to become licensed. This can be accomplished through talking with advisors or reviewing state regulations.

Timeliness:

Of course, the most valued aspect of an MFT program is how long it will take to complete the program from start to finish. You can check with each institutional program to see when they offer their courses so you can plan accordingly. Some educational institutions are very fast-paced and intense to get you through the program quickly. However, if you want to attend school on a part-time basis, this may not be the best option for you to meet your educational and professional goals. You would need to match up costs with timeliness to make the most efficient decision.

The best way to become a licensed marriage and family therapist is to acquire an in-depth and quality education that can teach you the fundamentals required by your state. Once you complete your program of choice, you will be ready to take the state licensure exam that will help you become a licensed practitioner. When you have completed all educational exams, you can enjoy working in your profession as an adept professional.

Related:

Top 20 Graduate Degree Programs in Marriage and Family Therapy