Special Notification

Program changes impacting program eligibility and completion:

  • The program no longer has two concentrations (prior COAMFTE and prior non-COAMFTE).
  • We no longer have a two-year program completion option.
  • Eligibility criteria has changed and only individuals with a completed master's degree (prior to enrollment not application) in Marital and Family Therapy/Couple and Family Therapy or Clinical Counseling are eligible to apply.

Program Description

The Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy (DMFT) program builds upon a relational/systemic philosophy, follows the practitioner-evaluator model, and focuses on applied skill development for use in clinical practice, supervision, and administrative positions. Our DMFT program uses an online learning modality in which 50% of the courses are taught synchronously and 50% are taught asynchronously. The synchronous courses have a virtual classroom component and students and instructors will meet weekly in the evening during the quarter for lecture and discussion. The asynchronous courses do not meet weekly but students receive instructor guidance throughout the quarter.

Program Website

Program Length

3 years

Possible Careers

Community Mental Health Administration, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Mental Health Administration within the elementary and secondary school settings, Academia—Adjunct and Full-time faculty positions, Research, Clinical positions in many mental health settings

Admissions Requirements

  • Complete online application
  • Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy/Couple and Family Therapy or Clinical Counseling. Must be a qualifying degree for licensure (LMFT or LPCC) in the applicant’s state. 
  • 3.3 master’s level GPA
  • Oral interview with faculty member(s)
  • Three letters of recommendation (2 academic and 1 professional preferred)
  • Background check
  • No GRE admissions requirement

Discipline Accrediting Agency

The program offered by Loma Linda University is the only DMFT program granted accreditation through the Council on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), the accrediting body associated with American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). COAMFTE accreditation means students meet national practice standards for marital and family therapy. This accreditation facilitates graduates’ eligibility to practice across the country as well as in California.

State Accrediting Agency

The academic programs at Loma Linda University are regionally accredited by the WSCUC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges [WASC] Senior College and University Commission).
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.
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