Saint Martin's University

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines coursework in clinical assessment, therapeutic intervention and systems-based approaches to mental and social health with applied practicum experiences. Core subjects typically cover counselling theories and skills, psychopathology and diagnostic formulation, lifespan development, crisis intervention, multicultural competence, ethics and professional issues, and foundations of community mental health.

• Assessment and Diagnosis — training in evidence-informed assessment techniques, use of diagnostic frameworks, risk assessment and documentation.
• Intervention and Psychotherapy — individual, group and family therapy methods drawn from cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic, trauma-informed and strengths-based models.
• Community and Systems Practice — case management, program development, interagency collaboration, and working within public sector and non-profit systems.
• Research Methods and Evaluation — applied research skills, programme evaluation and outcome measurement to inform practice.
• Practicum/Field Placement — supervised clinical hours in community agencies, hospitals, schools or other allied health settings, supported by reflective seminars and faculty supervision.

Depending on individual pathways, students may pursue elective modules or concentrations that emphasise substance misuse, child and adolescent mental health, geriatric care, or integrated primary care practice. The programme emphasises cultural competence, ethical practice and interprofessional collaboration throughout the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical entry materials include a formal application, official transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals and relevant experience, and at least two academic or professional references. A CV or résumé detailing relevant work or volunteer experience in mental health or allied fields is usually requested.

Additional requirements may include a successful interview with programme faculty and completion of background checks or health clearances prior to placement. Applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate proficiency in English according to the university’s graduate admissions policies. Specific GPA thresholds, prerequisite coursework or additional certifications may apply; prospective students should consult the programme admissions office for detailed guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across community, clinical and organisational settings. Career pathways include positions as mental health practitioners in community mental health centres, non-profit agencies, residential treatment services, hospital-based behavioural health teams, school-linked services, substance use treatment programmes and corrections or juvenile justice settings.

• Clinical and counselling roles (with appropriate licensure or certification where required)
• Case management and care coordination across health and social service systems
• Programme development, administration and supervision in non-profit and public agencies
• Policy, advocacy and community education roles focused on mental health and social wellbeing
• Further study and professional licensure pathways leading to independent clinical practice or doctoral training

The programme’s practicum component and regional partnerships support employability by connecting students with placement supervisors and local employers in the Puget Sound area and beyond.

Why study at Saint Martin's University

Saint Martin’s University offers a small, student-focused learning environment within a liberal arts tradition that emphasises service, ethics and community engagement. The programme is taught by faculty with clinical and applied experience who provide close mentorship and supervision during practicum placements. Cohort-style delivery and seminar-based learning encourage peer support and reflective practice.

Students benefit from the university’s regional network of community partners for practicum and employment opportunities, and from interdisciplinary collaboration with other health and social science programmes on campus. The institution’s commitment to service and social justice aligns with practice-oriented training that prepares graduates to work effectively with diverse populations in community settings.