Cornerstone University Launches New Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Cornerstone University is expanding its graduate counseling programs with the launch of a new Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (M.S. MFT), preparing students for careers as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs).

The fully online degree program with two annual in-person residencies offer a rigorous, focused degree program designed to meet Michigan educational requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure while helping address growing mental health and family relationship needs across Michigan and the nation. Graduates may also pursue licensure pathways in many states nationwide.

The new degree launches at a time when families across Michigan and the nation face growing mental health, relationship and caregiving challenges, while demand for licensed counseling professionals continues to rise.

“Strong traditional families are essential to our communities and our children, yet many are navigating unprecedented challenges,” said President Gerson Moreno-Riaño. “The Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy reflects Cornerstone University’s commitment to preparing highly qualified clinicians who can meet critical workforce needs while bringing Christ-centered and Biblical wisdom to the care of individuals, couples, and families.”

Priced up to 35% lower than regional private and public university averages, it is among the most affordable graduate counseling programs in Michigan and the nation.

Program Highlights

• Now accepting applications for fall 2026.
• Prepare for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensure.
• Complete clinical training in your local community through supervised practicum and internship experiences.
• Meet Michigan LMFT educational requirements.
• Support licensure pathways in many states nationwide.
• Two required in-person residencies in Grand Rapids focused on clinical skill development.
• Built upon Cornerstone University’s Christian worldview framework and proven graduate counseling excellence.

The new degree joins a well-established portfolio of graduate counseling programs at Cornerstone University. The university’s respected Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has prepared graduates who now serve individuals and communities throughout Michigan and beyond, supported by a strong network of regional clinical partners. Cornerstone also offers a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling for students seeking advanced ministry-focused counseling preparation.

While Clinical Mental Health Counseling primarily focuses on individual treatment, Marriage and Family Therapy examines challenges through the lens of relationships and family systems. Students learn how to help individuals, couples and families improve relationships, resolve conflict and navigate life’s most difficult challenges.

The launch of the M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy reflects the Cornerstone Advantage™ — equipping graduates with both the professional expertise and Christ-centered wisdom needed to help individuals, couples and families navigate life’s most difficult challenges, promote healing and restore hope. As Cornerstone celebrates 85 years of serving Michigan through community partnerships, the university continues to prepare professionals whose work strengthens our region.

Applications are now being accepted for the fall 2026 cohort.

To learn more about the Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or the Master of Arts in Christian Counseling, contact admissions@cornerstone.edu or call our admissions team at 616.816.5023.