Couples and Family Therapy University of Oregon

Overview

The Couples and Family Therapy programme at the University of Oregon provides an intensive clinical training experience designed for aspiring mental health professionals. This Master of Science degree focuses on developing advanced therapeutic skills to support individuals, intimate partners, and diverse family systems.

Students benefit from a small cohort model, typically admitting between 22 and 24 individuals annually to ensure personalised attention. The learning environment is deeply rooted in principles of equity, cooperation, and respect for diversity, fostering a noncompetitive atmosphere where students can flourish. Faculty members are active researchers and clinical practitioners who bring contemporary insights directly into the classroom.

Why Couples and Family Therapy at the University of Oregon?

The programme is distinguished by its status at a Research I university and its long-standing accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education. Students gain hands-on experience at the Center for Healthy Relationships and the HEDCO Clinic, which serve as primary onsite training facilities. These centres allow for immediate application of theory through live and digital supervision from experienced professionals.

Instruction is guided by four core programme anchors that emphasise the importance of intersecting identities and social justice. The curriculum is designed to meet the educational requirements for licensure in Oregon and many other US states. Additionally, students have the unique opportunity to pursue a Spanish Language Specialisation to better serve diverse communities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 34386 per year
• National fee: USD 34386 per year
• Local fee: USD 20076 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Couples and Family Therapy
• Clinical Supervision
• Research Methods Core
• Spanish Language Specialisation
• Practicum
• Community Externship

Careers with Couples and Family Therapy

Graduates are highly successful in securing professional roles across a broad range of clinical and educational settings. The programme prepares individuals to work effectively in outpatient non-profit agencies, schools, and hospital environments. Many alumni also find opportunities in adoption support centres or establish their own private practices.

Beyond direct clinical work, graduates often progress into leadership roles such as clinical directors or professional consultants. Some choose to pursue doctoral degrees to work in university settings as faculty members or researchers. Employment is also common in substance use treatment centres and eating disorder clinics, reflecting the versatile nature of the training received.

Accreditation

The CFT program has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (link is external) (AAMFT) since 2003, and approved by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists (link is external) (OBLPCT).