Best Master’s Degrees in Positive Psychology

A master’s degree in positive psychology offers an in-depth exploration of positive psychology principles’ theories, research, and practical applications, equipping graduates with advanced knowledge and skills to promote well-being and enhance human flourishing. This degree goes beyond the foundational understanding of positive psychology and delves deeper into specialized areas such as positive leadership, positive relationships, positive interventions, and positive education. With an online positive psychology master’s degree, students can continue working or handling other daily duties while pursuing their graduate-level education.

With a master’s degree, individuals can pursue various fulfilling career paths in positive psychology. Graduates may find opportunities as positive psychology practitioners, coaches, consultants, or counselors, working with individuals, teams, or organizations to enhance well-being and optimize performance. They may also pursue roles in education, healthcare, human resources, or community development, integrating positive psychology principles to improve the quality of life and foster resilience.

2026 Best Online Master's in Positive Psychology Programs

At Counseling Psychology, we understand the growing demand for flexible education in positive psychology. Our comprehensive rankings highlight the best online master's programs that cater to working professionals seeking advanced knowledge in this transformative field. These virtual programs offer unprecedented access to cutting-edge research and methodologies, allowing students to balance personal and professional commitments while advancing their careers. Distance learning options have revolutionized how mental health professionals can specialize in positive psychology, providing high-quality education without geographical constraints. Our expert team carefully evaluates each program's curriculum, faculty credentials, student support, and academic rigor to ensure students receive top-tier educational experiences. Learn more about our ranking methodology.

#1

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - upenn.edu

Master's - Master of Applied Positive Psychology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) at the University of Pennsylvania is a groundbreaking program that pioneers the scientific study of human strengths and well-being. Designed for professionals seeking transformative insights, this hybrid program allows students to explore cutting-edge psychological research while maintaining full-time work. Led by renowned experts like Dr. Martin Seligman, the curriculum covers essential theory, research methods, and practical applications across workplaces, schools, and nonprofit sectors. With a diverse, global student community ranging from 21 to 73 years old, the program offers unique opportunities to develop resilience skills and design impactful positive interventions.

• First world positive psychology master's
• Hybrid learning format
• Founded by Dr. Martin Seligman
• Global student network
• One-year full-time study
• Summer capstone project
• Professional application focus

#2

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Psychology (Positive Psychology), MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's MS in Psychology with a focus on Positive Psychology is designed for those passionate about the science of well-being and human flourishing. This program blends research with practical application, preparing students for careers in education, business, and more. With a curriculum covering happiness science, resilience training, and strength-based interventions, students gain valuable insights. The program requires 30 credit hours, can be completed in 3 to 5 semesters, and is available online. Admissions require a minimum 3.00 GPA, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. No GRE is required, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants.

• 30 credit hours
• Online program
• 3-5 semesters completion
• No GRE required
• Focus on well-being
• Strength-based interventions
• Resilience training
• Minimum 3.00 GPA
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose

#3

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - pcom.edu

Master's - Master of Applied Positive Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) at PCOM offers a transformative online program designed to equip students with cutting-edge skills in human flourishing. This comprehensive degree develops thought leaders capable of applying positive psychology interventions across diverse professional settings like healthcare, education, and business. Students learn powerful techniques in motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches, preparing them for roles in wellness consulting, organizational development, and research. The fully online format provides maximum flexibility, allowing completion in just one year with hands-on practicum experiences that build practical coaching and facilitation skills.

• Fully online one-year program
• Teaches motivational interviewing skills
• Focus on human flourishing model
• Prepares for doctoral psychology studies
• Hands-on practicum experiences
• Expert faculty in positive psychology

*NCES IPEDS database, 2023 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

What Will I Learn in an Online Positive Psychology Master’s Degree Program?

In an online master’s degree program in positive psychology, students delve deeper into the theories, research, and practical applications of positive psychology principles beyond what is learned in a bachelor’s positive psychology program. This two-year, 36-48 credit program provides an advanced understanding of the field and equips students with the knowledge and skills to promote well-being and optimize human potential. Some typical courses and topics covered in both campus-based and online master’s degree programs in positive psychology include:

• Advanced Positive Psychology Theory
• Positive Leadership
• Positive Relationships
• Positive Interventions
• Positive Education
• Positive Organizational Psychology
• Positive Coaching
• Research Methods in Positive Psychology
• Applied Positive Psychology
• Capstone Project or Thesis

These courses allow students to explore specialized areas within positive psychology, such as understanding and applying positive psychology in leadership contexts, cultivating positive relationships and well-being, implementing effective positive interventions, incorporating positive psychology principles in educational settings, and examining the application of positive psychology in organizations. Research methods courses provide students with advanced skills in designing and conducting research projects relevant to positive psychology.

The capstone project or thesis allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a focused area of interest, further contributing to the growing body of research in positive psychology. A master’s degree in positive psychology prepares students for careers as practitioners, consultants, educators, researchers, or leaders dedicated to fostering well-being and positive change in various settings and populations.

Admissions Requirements for a Master’s in Positive Psychology

An online master’s degree in positive psychology allows individuals to pursue advanced studies in positive psychology from anywhere in the world. These programs offer a comprehensive curriculum that deepens students’ understanding of positive psychology theories, research, and applications. Admissions requirements for online master’s programs in positive psychology may vary among institutions, but here are some typical requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Completed application form and application fee
• Transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Minimum GPA (usually around 3.0 or higher)
• Statement of purpose outlining goals and interest in positive psychology
• Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
• Resume or CV highlighting relevant experiences
• Writing samples or essays demonstrating writing and critical thinking abilities
• Some programs may require the GRE or other standardized test scores
• Interview (may be required by some institutions)
• English language proficiency for non-native English speakers (if applicable)

These requirements serve as guidelines, and specific criteria can vary from program to program. Prospective students must review the admissions criteria of their desired institution to ensure they meet all the requirements and provide the necessary documentation.

List of Positive Psychology Master’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in positive psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.