Frequently Asked Questions for M.F.T. Online Master"s Program

Is the MFT MA Online Program at Syracuse University (SU) accredited?

The 60 credit-hour Online program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).

Are there multiple start dates for the Online MFT degree program?

Currently there are two start dates, Fall and Spring.

How do I apply?

The application is available from our website on the “How To Apply” page. To contact admissions, email falk@syr.edu or call 315-443-5555.

What are the application requirements for the program?

Application requirements include academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, resume and a personal statement. There is an optional video interview component on the application itself. The GRE is not required.

What is the video interview?

The optional video interview component of the application gives the committee a chance to get to know you better. You will be asked a few general questions about your interests and goals. It takes no more than 5 minutes to complete.

What are the tuition and fees for the MFT Online program?

The MFT programs at SU have been granted a tuition reduction. Tuition and related fees are available on the SU cost of attendance website.

Are there any scholarships available?

Because of the reduced pricing structure, there are no departmental scholarships available.

Is there any financial aid available??

Domestic students are eligible to apply for student loans by filling out the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. For more information on student loans and financial aid opportunities, visit Graduate Financial Aid.

Is the MFT online program available to international students?

The MFT online program is not available to students living outside the U.S. as the placement component must be completed in the U.S. A student enrolled in an online program cannot hold F-1 or J-1 student immigration status. I-20/DS-2019 issuance requires a student to be enrolled in a residential program. However, international students in other immigration statuses (i.e., J-2, H-1, H-4, L-2, F-2) may be able to enroll in the online MFT program if allowed by their status.

Can Remitted Tuition Benefits be used?

SU employees with remitted tuition benefits are eligible to use them for the MFT MA residential and Online programs. Outside agency remitted tuition credits cannot be used for online program at SU.

Is the MFT MA Online Program full-time and part-time?

The 60 credit-hour MFT MA Online Program is part-time only. Students take 6 credits per semester (fall, spring, and summer) with two semesters that require 9 credits.

How long will it take to complete the MFT online program?

The average completion time for the degree is expected to be three years (dependent on completion of clinical hours).

If admitted, how will I receive information?

You will receive information through the application online portal, via email, which will outline the next steps including setting up your NetID and syr.edu email.

What is the structure of the program and what is the course delivery format?

Courses are delivered online synchronously EST, typically two evenings a week. There will also be asynchronous components, with considerable video and student participation.

Do you accept transfer credits, if so, how many?

The maximum number of transfer credits is 12 if applicable. Transfer credits must be reviewed and approved by the department.

When will I be assigned a faculty advisor?

During your first semester a faculty advisor will be assigned to assist with the development of your degree program. Staff will be available to answer questions prior to that time.

Does it matter which state I live in as far as clinical placements and licensing goes?

Each state has its own licensing requirements. Check with your state licensing board at the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).The program at SU meets licensing requirements for New York State.

What are the clinical hour requirements for the MFT online program?

Clinical hour requirements to graduate includes 500 total hours, with 250 being relational (hours must be direct client contact). Check if your state requirements allow you to count different hours so you can track for licensure (not graduation). A minimum of 100 hours of supervision, with 50 hours of observable session data – audio, video or live is required. Supervision must remain in a 1 to 5 ratio with therapy. Note that clinical hours are completed in a placement in your geographic location.

At what point do MFT students begin to see clients?

Students will begin to see clients in practicum course MFT 760, which is typically in the 5th semester of the program.

Can I relocate while in my internship?

Relocating during the practicum series of courses (MFT 760, 761, 762, and 763; which is 4 semesters) is not advised. If a student relocates and requires a different placement, they may not be able to complete the required clinical hours to graduate.

If I must take a semester or two off, can I come back and pick up where I left off?

Any changes to the student’s degree plan will require consultation with and approval of the academic advisor. Arrangements can be made for changes in the course schedule; however, clinical placements are much more difficult to adjust or change.

How does one complete the practicum process online?

Practicum is not completed online; it involves a clinical placement in the community/region in which the student resides. Once students reach their internship it is important they stay in one place to complete their hours.

Does my placement supervisor have to be approved by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)?

Placement supervisors must be approved by the SU Internship Coordinator prior to beginning placement. Clinical supervisor qualifications must include the following:

a) demonstration of professional identity as a marriage and family therapist, and

b) demonstration of training in MFT relational/systemic supervision by one of the following:

• A graduate course in MFT relational/systemic supervision equivalent to three semester-credit hours;

• Postgraduate professional education in MFT relational/systemic supervision of at least 30 clock hours;

• A state established MFT supervisor designation that includes relational/systemic supervision training;

• Designation as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor or AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candid

What is the campus residency requirement? When is it offered?

A non-mandatory residency is offered once each year, in Syracuse NY. Although not mandatory we do encourage attendance. This 3-day experience (plus travel days) will take place on the SU campus and is meant to facilitate engagement across cohorts and provide networking and mentoring opportunities. This intense learning opportunity will incorporate seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and peer discussions.

What are the costs associated with the residency?

Students will be required to cover the costs of the residency which will include lodging, travel, transportation, food, and any other necessary expenses (a residency fee may also be included). Information will be provided when the residency is planned.

Can online students use The Couple and Family Therapy Center as an internship placement?

No, the Couple and Family Therapy Center cannot be considered as an internship site for online students. It is reserved for residential students only.

If I am in the online program, can I take residential classes?

No, because of the sequencing of classes and class space allotted to residential students, online students cannot enroll.

Where can I find additional information about the online master’s degree?

Information about the online program can be found at Marriage and Family Therapy Academic Programs M.F.T. M.A. Online.

When is the next graduate student information session being held?

To learn more about upcoming virtual information sessions or to sign up for an individual admission appointment, visit the graduate virtual events page.