MSW vs. MFT Degree Programs: Explaining the Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Choosing between an MSW degree and an MFT degree can be challenging. Both lead to mental health and counseling careers, but they focus on different skills and job roles. Students may struggle to decide which path aligns with their career goals, whether they want to provide therapy, work in social services, or support families and communities.

The job outlook for both fields is strong. Social work jobs are expected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, while demand for marriage and family therapists is set to rise 16%. This means both career paths offer stability but don’t lead to the same opportunities. This article, prepared by experts in career planning, breaks down the key differences in education, licensing, and job opportunities. It will help students understand their options and choose the right degree for their future.

Key Things You Should Know About MSW vs. MFT Degree Programs

The MSW degree takes about two years full-time, while the MFT degree typically takes two to three years, depending on state requirements.
The median tuition for social work programs is $7,190 (in-state public) and $32,870 (out-of-state private), while MFT programs cost $7,038 (in-state public) and $33,550 (out-of-state private).
Social workers earn an average salary of $50,102, while marriage and family therapists earn $57,856 annually.
Social work employment is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, adding about 67,300 job openings per year.
MFT employment is projected to grow by 16% from 2023 to 2033, but with only 7,500 openings per year.

What are MSW vs. MFT degree programs?
How long does it take to earn an MSW vs. an MFT?
Which degree is more affordable, MSW or MFT?
What are the financial aid options for MSW vs. MFT students?
What are the licensing requirements for MSWs vs. MFTs?
Where do MSWs and MFTs work after graduation?
What additional certifications can boost career outcomes?
What is the fastest way to become a licensed counselor?
How are emerging industry trends reshaping counseling career pathways?
Can specialized faith-based credentials boost career growth?
Is an Accelerated Online Degree the Right Choice for Career Advancement?
How does accreditation impact online program credibility and career outcomes?
What kind of work can MSWs do that MFTs can’t?
Do MSWs or MFTs make more money for 2025?
Which degree offers better long-term career security?
Can MSWs and MFTs work together?
Other Things You Should Know About MSW vs. MFT Degree Programs

What are MSW vs. MFT degree programs?

A Master's in Social Work (MSW) and a marriage and family therapy (MFT) degree prepare students for mental health careers, but they have different focuses. The MSW degree trains students in social work, emphasizing advocacy, case management, and therapy in broader social contexts. The MFT degree specializes in psychotherapy, focusing on relationships, family systems, and behavioral health.

Here’s how they compare:

Who They Serve: MSW graduates work with diverse groups, including crisis-affected individuals, at-risk youth, and underserved communities. MFT graduates primarily treat individuals, couples, and families struggling with relationship and mental health challenges.
Career Outcomes: MSW graduates can become licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) and work in social services, policy, and therapy. MFT graduates become licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) and focus on counseling.
Standard Courses: MSW programs emphasize social policy, human behavior, and clinical intervention. MFT programs focus on family systems, couples therapy, and psychological assessment.
Fieldwork: Both degrees require internships, but MSW students often train in social service agencies. In contrast, MFT students gain experience in therapy settings.

How long does it take to earn an MSW vs. an MFT?

Both an MSW and an MFT degree require graduate study, but their timelines differ due to program structure, licensing requirements, and training hours. On average, an MSW takes two years to complete full-time. In comparison, an MFT degree typically takes two to three years due to higher clinical training requirements.

Several factors influence the length of each program:

Which degree is more affordable, MSW or MFT?

Tuition costs for an MSW and MFT degree vary by school and residency status. However, MFT degrees tend to be slightly cheaper at public universities, while private institutions charge about the same for both degrees.

Here’s how they compare:

Public University Tuition: The median in-state tuition for an MSW is $7,190, while an MFT costs slightly less at $7,038. This slight difference may not be noticeable, but MFT programs are somewhat more budget-friendly at public schools.
Private University Tuition: The median private school tuition for an MSW is $32,870, while an MFT costs $33,550. This makes private MFT programs slightly more expensive.
Additional Costs: MSW students may spend more on internships in social service agencies, which may not offer paid positions. MFT students often face extra costs for clinical supervision hours, which they must complete after graduation to get licensed.
Affordability Options: Affordable online MFT programs can help lower costs by reducing commuting and housing expenses, while accelerated MSW programs may save students money by shortening the time spent in school.

While tuition differences are minor, MFT students may spend more in the long run due to unpaid clinical supervision hours. Those looking for the most budget-friendly option should explore in-state public universities or online programs that offer tuition savings.

What are the financial aid options for MSW vs. MFT students?

MSW programs generally offer more funding options due to federal and nonprofit support for social work careers. However, MFT students still have strong scholarship and grant opportunities, particularly from mental health organizations.

Here’s how financial aid compares:

Federal Aid: Both degrees qualify for federal loans, work-study, and grants. The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program is more accessible for MSW graduates since they often work in government or nonprofit roles. MFT graduates may qualify but must work in eligible settings.
Scholarships: MSW students have more field-specific scholarships, such as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Foundation and the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). MFT students can apply for awards like the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Minority Fellowship and the CAMFT Educational Foundation Scholarship.
Grants & Fellowships: MSW students can access state and federal grants supporting social workers in underserved areas. MFT students may find fellowships through mental health organizations but often have fewer publicly funded options.
Loan Repayment Programs: MSW graduates can qualify for National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment, which forgives loans for those working in mental health shortage areas. MFT graduates may be eligible but with fewer designated positions.

The chart below illustrates the student loan forgiveness distribution based on type of eligibility, as reported in 2024.

What are the licensing requirements for MSWs vs. MFTs?

MSW and MFT graduates need licenses to practice, but the process differs in structure and requirements. MFT licensing is typically more specialized, while MSW licensing varies based on career path.

Here’s how the requirements compare:

Exam Difficulty & Scope: MSW graduates take the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam, which tests broad topics like policy, ethics, and intervention strategies. MFT graduates take the Marriage and Family Therapy National Exam, focusing more on systemic therapy and clinical techniques. The MFT exam often requires a deeper understanding of psychotherapy models.
Supervised Hours: MSW licensing requires 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised work, depending on the state and career focus. MFT candidates need 3,000 to 4,000 hours, focusing more on family and couples therapy. Because of this, MFT supervision can take longer to complete.
State Regulations: Social work licensing varies more by state, so MSW graduates should check local requirements. MFT licensing follows national standards but still requires state approval. If you earn a marriage and family counseling degree online, research whether your program meets state-specific licensing rules.
Career Impact: MSW graduates can work in non-clinical settings while earning their supervision hours, which may speed up employment. MFT graduates almost always need to complete all clinical hours before practicing independently, making the process longer.

The MFT path tends to be more specialized and demanding in clinical training, while MSW licensing offers more flexibility in career choices. This difference means MSW graduates may enter the workforce sooner, while MFT candidates face a longer, more structured path to independent practice.

Where do MSWs and MFTs work after graduation?

MSW and MFT graduates work in overlapping fields, but their job settings differ in key ways. Social workers are more likely to be employed in public service, while MFTs are more concentrated in private practice and therapy-based settings.

Here’s how their workplaces compare:

Government vs. Private Practice: According to 2024 BLS data, 14% of social workers work in local government, and 12% work in state government. These jobs offer structured career paths, steady salaries, and public service benefits. In contrast, only a small percentage of MFTs work in government roles. Instead, 14% of MFTs are self-employed, making private practice a more common career path.
Healthcare and Family Services: MSWs and MFTs work in individual and family services, but MFTs make up a more significant percentage in clinical settings. About 27% of MFTs work in individual and family services, compared to 18% of MSWs. This shows that MFTs are more likely to work directly in therapy. At the same time, MSWs often focus on case management and advocacy.
Workplace Stability: MSW jobs in government settings offer long-term job security and structured career progression. MFTs in private practice have more independence but must build their client base and manage their business. This explains why some students prefer an MSW degree for stability while others choose an MFT degree for flexibility.

What additional certifications can boost career outcomes?

Pursuing specialized certifications can enhance career trajectories by complementing core MSW or MFT skills with targeted expertise. Professionals may consider credentials in behavioral analysis or related fields to diversify their practice and meet evolving client needs. For example, integrating BCBA coursework online can provide a competitive edge for those exploring roles that require applied behavior analysis skills. Assess program accreditation, instructor credentials, and industry recognition to ensure certifications align with long-term career objectives and regulatory standards.

What is the fastest way to become a licensed counselor?

Graduates from both MSW and MFT programs can optimize their journey to licensure by closely aligning clinical placements, supervision hours, and state-specific requirements. Focusing on targeted certifications and specialized training can accelerate the credentialing process while ensuring compliance with ethical and professional standards. Leveraging mentorship opportunities and reputable online resources helps expedite readiness for independent practice. For comprehensive strategies, explore the fastest way to become a counselor.

How are emerging industry trends reshaping counseling career pathways?

Recent shifts in healthcare and technology are influencing counseling careers by expanding service delivery methods and client engagement strategies. Professionals are increasingly integrating telehealth solutions, data-driven care, and interdisciplinary collaboration into their practices to adapt to evolving client needs and regulatory landscapes. In parallel, obtaining advanced credentials—such as LPC degrees—can enhance practitioners’ skill sets and marketability. This dynamic environment requires counselors to stay informed about industry innovations and continuously refine their practice to maintain competitive advantages.

Can specialized faith-based credentials boost career growth?

For professionals targeting niche markets that value spiritual integration in mental health, specialized training can be a decisive asset. Pursuing credentials that merge counseling expertise with faith-based principles may offer unique insights and career differentiation. For instance, obtaining a Christian marriage counseling degree can provide targeted skills and community-specific approaches, enhancing opportunities in settings where cultural and ethical values play a significant role.

Is an Accelerated Online Degree the Right Choice for Career Advancement?

Accelerated online programs offer a streamlined path to acquiring advanced skills while maintaining flexibility in a demanding professional landscape. They can reduce the time to licensure and provide immediate access to updated resources and technology-driven training. Prospective students should evaluate program accreditation, curriculum rigor, and support infrastructure to ensure a quality educational experience. Reviewing options such as the fastest online psychology degree can provide valuable insights into integrating academic excellence with career efficiency.

How does accreditation impact online program credibility and career outcomes?

Accreditation plays a critical role in validating educational quality and ensuring graduates meet industry standards, which is essential for licensure and professional practice. Accredited online programs maintain strict evaluation measures that enhance employer confidence and broaden career opportunities. For instance, choosing an accredited program such as an online PsyD program APA accredited online can provide a competitive edge by aligning academic rigor with regulatory compliance. Assessing accreditation details and program structure is key to selecting a pathway that supports long-term professional credibility and success.

What kind of work can MSWs do that MFTs can’t?

MSWs have access to careers that MFTs cannot pursue due to licensing, training, and job structure. While both degrees involve mental health, social workers can work in larger systems like government agencies, advocacy groups, and social policy organizations.

Here’s what MSWs can do that MFTs cannot:

Macro Social Work & Policy Advocacy: MSWs can work in macro social work, shaping public policy, leading social justice initiatives, and managing community programs. MFTs, by contrast, focus on individual and family therapy, limiting their role in large-scale policy initiatives.
Child Welfare & Protective Services: MSWs can work in child protective services (CPS), foster care agencies, and adoption services. These jobs involve legal authority to remove children from unsafe environments, manage casework, and connect families with resources. MFTs do not have this authority and primarily offer counseling.
Medical & Hospital-Based Social Work: Hospitals and healthcare systems employ MSWs to help patients navigate insurance, discharge planning, and long-term care. While MFTs work in medical settings, they focus solely on therapy and do not handle case management or patient advocacy.
Government & Community Program Leadership: Social workers often run nonprofit organizations, manage public programs, and oversee community mental health initiatives. MFTs can work within these programs but do not typically hold leadership roles in social services.

An MSW degree is better suited for students who want to create systemic change, influence public policy, or work in large social service agencies. Those who prefer direct client work in therapy and mental health treatment should consider an MFT degree instead.

For those drawn specifically to substance use treatment, top addiction counseling degrees online may also be worth considering, especially if your focus is on direct therapeutic work rather than systemic change or policy-driven roles.

Do MSWs or MFTs make more money for 2025?

According to data published in 2025 by Zippia, marriage and family therapists earn an average of $57,856, while social workers earn $50,102. However, this difference comes with trade-offs.

Higher Clinical Salaries vs. Broader Job Opportunities: MFTs focus on therapy, a specialized skill that commands higher pay. In contrast, MSWs work in diverse roles, some offering lower salaries, such as case management or nonprofit work. However, MSWs have more career paths, which may lead to higher-paying leadership roles over time.
Private Practice Potential: MFTs are more likely to work in private practice, where they set their rates and potentially earn more. Social workers can become LCSWs and enter private practice, but this path requires additional licensing and experience.
Public Sector vs. Private Sector Pay: Many MSWs work in government roles with structured pay scales, which may be lower than private mental health clinics where MFTs often work. However, MSWs in hospital settings or macro-level positions can surpass the average MFT salary.
Long-Term Earnings Potential: While MFTs may start with higher pay, MSWs who advance into policy, administration, or medical social work can earn competitive salaries, sometimes exceeding MFT earnings.

While MFTs may enjoy higher starting salaries due to their specialized clinical focus, addiction counseling degree vs psychology degree paths can offer varying opportunities, with each presenting distinct long-term earning potentials and career trajectories. This divergence is particularly notable when comparing roles in private practice and public sector positions.

The chart below compares the annual median salary of social workers and MFTs to all other occupations, as reported by the BLS in 2024.

Which degree offers better long-term career security?

MSWs have more job openings, while MFTs have a faster growth rate. This means both degrees offer strong long-term career security but in different ways.

Higher Job Demand vs. Faster Job Growth: Social work has a 7% growth rate, with 67,300 annual openings, meaning consistent demand across industries. MFT jobs are growing at 16%, more than double the rate of social work, but with only 7,500 openings annually. This suggests MFTs are in high demand but in a more specialized field, while MSWs benefit from broader opportunities.
Public Sector vs. Private Sector Stability: Many social workers hold government jobs, which provide stable employment, benefits, and pension plans. MFTs often work in private practice or clinics, where demand may fluctuate based on economic conditions.
Long-Term Adaptability: As mental health awareness grows, both professions will remain in demand. However, social workers can pivot into healthcare, social policy, and management roles, making the MSW degree more adaptable in changing job markets.

While MFTs experience faster job growth, the MSW degree offers broader career opportunities, with a steady influx of job openings and long-term adaptability. Both degrees provide solid career prospects, but the choice between an MFT degree vs LMFT license depends on whether you prefer specialized clinical work or the flexibility of roles across sectors.

Can MSWs and MFTs work together?

Yes, MSWs and MFTs often work together, especially in mental health and social service settings. Their roles complement each other, allowing them to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families.

Different Approaches, Same Goal: Social workers with an MSW degree focus on broad social issues. At the same time, MFTs specialize in family and relationship dynamics. In settings like hospitals or community agencies, an MSW might address a client's housing or financial struggles, while an MFT provides therapy for emotional well-being.
Collaborating in Treatment Teams: Many clinics and social service organizations employ MSWs and MFTs. An LCSW from one of many online MSW programs may provide case management, while an MFT offers specialized therapy. Together, they ensure clients receive both practical support and mental health care.
Partnerships in Private Practice: Some MSWs and MFTs open joint practices, combining social work services with marriage and family counseling. This allows them to serve a broader client base and provide holistic care.

For those exploring their options, a guide to choosing therapy specialization can help clarify which path may be the best fit based on individual interests and career goals.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their MSW or MFT Degrees

I wanted to help people, but I also needed a degree that could open doors. My MSW degree gave me that. I started in child welfare, but now I work in policy, shaping programs that affect thousands. The flexibility of social work means I’ll never feel stuck in one role. — Nathan

Becoming an MFT isn’t just about learning theories—it’s about learning people. The coursework challenged me, but the first time I helped a couple rebuild trust, I knew I was where I belonged. Studying marriage and family counseling gave me the skills to make a real impact. — Jason

I worried about student debt, but I found affordable online MFT programs that fit my budget. Now, I run my own practice, set my own hours, and earn more than I ever did in my old job. Investing in an MFT degree wasn’t easy, but it paid off in ways I never expected. — Amara

Other Things You Should Know About MSW vs. MFT Degree Programs

Is a master's in MFT worth it?

A master's in MFT is worth it for those passionate about relationship-focused therapy. With a marriage and family counseling degree online or on-campus, graduates enter a fast-growing field with a 16% job growth rate. MFTs earn higher average salaries than social workers and often work in private practice, offering flexibility.

Can I become an MFT with a Masters in Social Work?

No, an MSW degree does not qualify someone to be an MFT. MSW graduates focus on social work practice, while MFTs require specialized coursework in family therapy. However, an MSW can lead to a clinical social work license, allowing professionals to offer therapy under a different credential.

Which degree is better, social work or psychology?

It depends on career goals. A social work degree prepares students for broad social services, while a psychology degree focuses on research and mental health. Those wanting to provide therapy can pursue an MSW for clinical social work or an MFT for relationship-based counseling.

Can you earn both an MSW and an MFT degree?

Yes, some professionals pursue both degrees for expanded career options. Dual-degree programs or separate study paths allow students to qualify for clinical social work and family therapy licensure. This combination increases job flexibility, especially for those in private practice.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2024a). Marriage and Family Therapists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. BLS.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2024b). Social Workers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. BLS.
Data USA. (2023a). Marriage & Family Therapy. Data USA.
Data USA. (2023b). Social Work. Data USA.
Hanson, M. (2024). Student Loan Forgiveness Statistics. Education Data Initiative.
Zippia. (2025a). Marriage and Family Therapist Salary. Zippia.
Zippia. (2025b). Social Worker Salary. Zippia.