University of San Francisco

What you'll study

This master's programme integrates clinical concepts, community-based approaches and systems-level perspectives on mental and social health. Core themes include assessment and diagnosis, evidence-based interventions, social determinants of health, cultural competence, ethics, and interprofessional collaboration. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, case-based learning, and supervised practicum placements in community agencies, hospitals or schools.

• Foundations of Mental Health Practice – theories of mental health and illness, lifespan development and biopsychosocial formulation.
• Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Skills – psychiatric interviewing, diagnostic formulation, risk assessment and outcome measurement.
• Evidence-Based Interventions – cognitive behavioural, psychodynamic, family and group approaches, with attention to trauma-informed care.
• Community and Public Mental Health – programme planning, prevention, population health, and engagement with under-served communities.
• Social Determinants and Health Equity – structural factors affecting mental health, advocacy, and culturally responsive practice.
• Policy, Leadership and Service Systems – organisation of mental health services, funding, interagency collaboration and quality improvement.
• Research Methods and Evaluation – quantitative and qualitative methods, programme evaluation and outcome measurement relevant to service settings.
• Practicum and Capstone – supervised clinical placements or community projects culminating in a capstone integrating practice and scholarship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as psychology, social work, nursing, public health or a related field. Relevant professional experience in mental health or human services strengthens an application. Admissions consider academic transcripts, a personal statement describing professional goals and commitment to social justice, and at least one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional referee.

English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English, demonstrated through approved qualifications. Some specialisations or practicum placements may require background checks and up-to-date immunisations; evidence of those requirements will be requested before placement.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a broad range of roles across clinical, community and organisational contexts. Typical career pathways include positions as mental health clinicians in community agencies, case managers, programme coordinators, behavioural health consultants, and therapists working alongside allied health teams. Others move into policy, service development, administration, research or education within public health departments, non-profit organisations, hospitals, schools and integrated primary care settings.

The programme’s emphasis on practicum experience and interprofessional collaboration prepares graduates for roles that require coordination across services and advocacy for equitable care. For those seeking licensure or clinical credentials, this master’s can provide part of the academic preparation needed alongside required supervised hours and board or state examinations, depending on professional route and jurisdiction.

Why study at University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco combines a strong commitment to social justice with programmes anchored in urban community engagement. Students benefit from access to a network of clinical and community partners across the San Francisco Bay Area, offering diverse practicum and employment opportunities in public, non-profit and private settings. Faculty typically include clinician-scholars with active practice experience and research interests in community mental health, trauma, and health equity.

The campus environment supports interdisciplinary learning across health, social work, public health and education, enabling collaboration with peers from related fields. The university’s location also provides exposure to innovative health systems, integrated care models and a variety of culturally diverse communities, which is especially valuable for those preparing for leadership roles in mental and social health services.