Program Overview
The Adler University Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness (MOPHW) is a 36-credit, specialized nonclinical degree that prepares professionals for leadership roles that enhance health outcomes.
As one of the only programs of its kind in Canada, this cutting-edge master’s program goes beyond theory, providing students with hands-on expertise in psychometric assessment, wellness program design, and evidence-based leadership — equipping them to challenge the status quo, implementing innovative solutions, shaping policy, and leading efforts that drive lasting change in health care, public health, and community organizations.
Rooted in the biopsychosocial model of human growth and development, the curriculum trains students to assess population health needs and design evidence-based, sustainable interventions informed by research, health promotion, neurobiology, and cognition. It also aligns with many of the standards set by key professional organizations, including the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), American Psychological Association (APA) Division 38 (Health Psychology), and the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE).
Expert faculty mentorship and immersive learning experiences empower students to translate psychological research into practice. Graduates are equipped to navigate complex health challenges with confidence, developing strategies that enhance resilience and well-being at both individual and community levels.
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Program Delivery and Format
The MOPHW program is offered in a flexible, blended delivery model, with courses primarily on campus and some options online.
Capstone
Students complete a capstone project focused on secondary research in health and wellness, allowing them to synthesize existing studies to address real-world health challenges. Through this structured five-chapter manuscript, students will deepen their expertise and develop as subject matter experts in their chosen areas.
Student Outcomes
Program Objectives
- Program Objective 1: Analyze key principles impacting individuals, systems, and communities in relation to health and wellness.
- Program Objective 2: Evaluate ethical and cultural considerations in health and wellness interventions.
- Program Objective 3: Design and implement evidence-based qualitative and quantitative research strategies.
- Program Objective 4: Develop strategies to assess, refine, and scale wellness programs at local, national, and global levels.
- Program Objective 5: Examine the role of policy, systems, and environmental factors in shaping health outcomes and advocate for systemic change.
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness Program will apply their professional skill and knowledge base to various fields in entry level to middle management roles related to:
- Human Resources
- Government
- Business and Industry
- Healthcare
- Education
- Addictions
- Family and Domestic Violence
- Child and Older Adult Services
- Public Safety and Emergency Management
- Nongovernmental Organizations and Nonprofits
Jason Walker, Psy.D., Ph.D.
Program Director, Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness
“We are preparing graduates to lead in the rapidly growing field of health and wellness, which encompasses the full spectrum of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By focusing on evidence-based strategies to enhance mental health and overall well-being, we are ensuring our graduates are empowered to drive transformative change in diverse health environments.”
Curriculum
The Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness requires the following 36 credits of coursework.
Find course descriptions and more information in the Adler University course catalog here.
Core Coursework
Courses include a mix of both online and in-person classes.
This course will focus on the conceptual origins and evolution of modern ideas in applied psychology with an emphasis on historical and contemporary viewpoints that have influenced and shaped accepted models and systems within the field.
This course provides an overview of foundational psychological sciences and the related applications in the field. A broad review of scientific approaches to inquiry, methodological frameworks, professional skills, and application will be reviewed in fundamental areas of psychology.
This course focuses on establishing and promoting ethical and socially responsible practice within the field of applied psychology. Students will evaluate human rights, welfare, and public health and safety of groups and individuals as these constructs relate to the practice of applied psychology.
This course discusses the assumptions and methods of a range of research designs used in Organizational and Applied Psychology research. A critical assessment is provided of the strengths and weaknesses of different research methods and their application to the study of individual, group and organizational behaviour.
Community Psychology investigates a range of pervasive social justice issues that impact the well-being of individuals and communities. In this course students will study a wide variety of forces and structures in the community which affect the positive growth, development, and functioning of its members.
In this course, students will examine the value and nature of diversity and individual differences within groups, communities, and global environments in contemporary society. This course will explore the meaning and dimensions of diversity from an individual and systems perspective and the various contexts of diversity at the individual, group, domestic, organizational, and global level.
This course explores biological bases of behaviour throughout the lifespan with an emphasis on practical applications of current neuroscience research. Students will critically analyze practical situations as they relate to the impact of biological structures and physiological systems on psychological functioning.
This course will explore the history, theory, and research methods of positive psychology as it applies to professional settings and the public health sector. Students will be exposed to the methodology in assessment of positive emotions, character strengths, and meaning in life.
This course provides an introduction to mindfulness and other meditative and mind-body approaches to counseling. The course focuses on theory, technique, and practice. No prior experience with meditation is required, though students must be willing to practice selected techniques daily throughout the semester, as meditative and mind-body techniques cannot be learned through description alone.
This course will provide an overview of biological, physiological, and pharmacological foundations for optimal human development and psychological wellbeing. Students will be exposed to different explanatory models of human functioning from a naturalistic and holistic organism perspective.
Capstone
This course provides students with a unique opportunity to complete a project that will reflect their learning and training experiences throughout the program.
This course provides students with a unique opportunity to complete a project that will reflect their learning and training experiences throughout the program.
Social Justice Practicum
The SJP is a non-clinical and non-discipline specific experience to help students learn how to work alongside communities as agents of social change. It serves as the catalyst for students to realize and understand their own strengths and responsibility to contribute to social equity.
The SJP is a non-clinical and non-discipline specific experience to help students learn how to work alongside communities as agents of social change. It serves as the catalyst for students to realize and understand their own strengths and responsibility to contribute to social equity.
Social Justice Practicum
200-hour internship to give students real world experience
A unique and proven program designed to give students real-world experience throughout their time at Adler University, the Social Justice Practicum is a required 200-hour internship that spans four courses (or terms for online programs). Every student is given a number of civic-minded categories to choose from. They submit their desired areas of interest. After which, they are assigned a specific and aligned community outreach site where they will work 8 to 10 hours per week.
Faculty Spotlight
Jason Walker, Psy.D., Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, CPHR
Program Director, Psychology in Health and Wellness
Program Director, Industrial and Organizational Psychology
My passion for psychology runs deep, and I’m especially thrilled to collaborate with colleagues and engage with students whose diverse perspectives enrich the academic environment.
Admissions Requirements
At Adler University, students represent a wide range of professional interests, backgrounds, and academic and work histories. We admit individuals with a strong record of academic achievement and a commitment to social responsibility.
Applicants to the program must have the following:
- A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- Evidence of interest and experience in social change efforts.
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher for all undergraduate or graduate coursework.
- 92 or better on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) with no band lower than 22.
- 7.0 IELTS overall with no bands below 6.5.
- PTE must have a minimum score of 62.
Applicants are required to submit the following items to be considered for admission:
- Application and application fee
- Statement of Intent answering the following questions:
- Your letter should be coherent, well-organized and reflect your voice and experiences. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for psychology and suitability for the Adler University master’s program. Ensure your letter is double-spaced, does not exceed three (3) pages, and please use “headings” so that you answer each question.
- Who are you, and where do you come from?
- Describe your background, including where you grew up and any significant personal experiences, family influences, or cultural factors shaping your interest in psychology.
- What ignited your passion for psychology?
- Discuss a specific event, experience, or realization that sparked your interest in psychology. Include any relevant coursework, research, volunteer work, or personal experiences that have further fueled your passion for the field.
- Why are you interested in the master’s program at Adler University?
- Explain why you are specifically interested in the master’s program you are applying for at Adler University.
- Where do you see yourself in future practice?
- Describe your career aspirations and how you plan to apply your degree in your future career. Whether it be in consulting, research, teaching, or another area within psychology, explain how you intend to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
- Personal Reflection: What is your greatest strength and area for improvement, academically and professionally?
- Reflect on your greatest strength and your area for academic and professional development. Provide specific examples that highlight these aspects of your development.
- Who are you, and where do you come from?
- Your letter should be coherent, well-organized and reflect your voice and experiences. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for psychology and suitability for the Adler University master’s program. Ensure your letter is double-spaced, does not exceed three (3) pages, and please use “headings” so that you answer each question.
The following items are also required as part of the application process.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools attended (U.S and Canada)
- Please have official transcripts sent directly to the Office of Admissions
- Unofficial transcripts are accepted for any schools in which a degree was not received
- Applicants with international (outside the U.S. or Canada) post-secondary education should send a scan of their official transcript to the Office of Admissions as this program is exempt from the requirement to complete a transcript evaluation. Please speak to your admissions advisor if you require more details.
Applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be required to interview with a program representative. The interview will assess the applicant’s academic background, work and/or volunteer experience, alignment with the University mission, and suitability for the program of interest. Following the interview, the decision will be either (a) direct admission to the graduate program or (b) denial of admission.
*Applicants submitting admission documents (transcripts, bank documents, English proficiency scores, etc.) that are found to have been altered or fabricated will be denied admission. Denials based on fraudulent documents cannot be appealed.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition for Adler University’s programs is charged each term according to the number of registered academic credits. The number of credits a student will register for varies by academic program and by term. To estimate the amount of tuition and fees that would be charged in a given term, please use our Tuition Estimator tool below, or read about tuition and fees for all Vancouver programs.