Antioch University

Programme overview

This is a 27–30 credit Post‑Master’s Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy designed for working professionals with an existing graduate degree in a mental‑health field. Courses are delivered online with some required residencies; students work with an advisor to create an individualized plan that can be tailored to meet state licensure requirements where possible. The program is not designed to lead to state licensure, though it can allow students to meet licensure requirements in many states. The certificate is offered by Antioch University New England.

What you'll study

The certificate combines required and elective coursework drawn from Antioch’s master’s and doctoral CFT curricula. Required coursework (12 or 15 credits) includes:

• Systemic Assessment and Treatment Planning
• MFT Identity, Law, and Ethics
• Foundational Theories in MFT
• Diverse Families and Community OR Social Justice Theory and Application

Elective coursework (15 credits required) may include master’s‑level courses such as:

• Family Studies Seminar
• MFT Seminar: Special Topics
• Research and Evaluation in MFT (may be required for licensure in some states)
• Couples Therapy from a Systemic Perspective
• Human Sexuality and Sex Therapy
• Human Development: Lifespan and Systems Perspectives

PhD‑level course options listed include Supervision in MFT I and Family Policy and Advocacy. The program can incorporate practicum opportunities through the Antioch Couple and Family Therapy Institute and internship placements when needed.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a graduate degree in a mental‑health field. Application components include an online admissions application, essay questions, a resume/CV, a non‑refundable $50 application fee, official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions, and two letters of recommendation from individuals able to evaluate the applicant’s professional or academic work (not relatives). International applicants and applicants without a bachelor’s degree face additional requirements. Selected applicants may be interviewed by a faculty member (in person, by phone, or via Skype). GRE or other standardized tests are not required.

Career prospects

Graduates gain specialized training to practice as couple and family therapists, working with individuals, children, couples, and families on mental, behavioral, health, and relationship issues using a systemic, holistic approach. The program notes strong job opportunities in the field and cites projected growth for couple and family therapy roles; however, this certificate itself is not framed as a direct path to licensure in every state, so graduates should verify state licensure rules and whether additional coursework or supervised experience is required.

Scholarships & funding angle

Antioch University encourages students to explore federal, state, public and private aid such as loans, scholarships, and grants; the majority of students use some form of financial aid. The program lists per‑credit tuition rates for Antioch New England certificates; prospective students should contact the university’s financial aid office or an admissions counselor to review cost of attendance, aid eligibility, and funding options.