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.

2025 Best Online Master's in Positive Psychology Programs

Looking for the best online master's in positive psychology programs? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked top programs to help you find the right fit. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with work or family. They open doors for students everywhere, especially those who need distance learning or virtual options. Our rankings consider key factors to ensure quality education. Learn more about how we rank these programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-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 University of Pennsylvania's Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) stands as a leader in the field, blending rigorous academic study with practical applications to foster human flourishing. This hybrid program, requiring no specific entrance exam, is ideal for working professionals eager to apply positive psychology in diverse settings. Under the guidance of Dr. Martin Seligman, students engage in a curriculum that spans theory, research, and real-world interventions. The program's unique one-year, full-time format includes a summer capstone project, offering hands-on experience. With a global cohort, participants gain insights into enhancing well-being across cultures and professions, making it a top choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact.

• 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 Campus Immersion

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

Master's - Psychology (Positive Psychology), MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University offers an online MS in Psychology with a focus on Positive Psychology, ideal for those eager to explore the science of happiness and human potential. This program stands out for its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for diverse fields such as education and organizational development. Students delve into topics like resilience, strength-based approaches, and the psychology of well-being across 30 credit hours, completable in 3 to 5 semesters. Notably, the program does not require a GRE for admission, broadening access to applicants with a minimum 3.00 GPA, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. A background in psychology and a statistics course are recommended for success.

• 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

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion

Marion, IN - Private 4-year - indwes.edu

Master's - MA in Psychology

Concentration: Life Coaching and Positive Psychology - Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion offers an online MA in Psychology with a concentration in Life Coaching and Positive Psychology, designed for professionals seeking to integrate positive psychology principles with life coaching skills. This 30-credit program, rooted in a Christian worldview, emphasizes mental health, well-being, and ethical practices without requiring an entrance exam. Priced at $499 per credit hour, the program can be completed in over 15 months, offering flexibility for working adults. With a focus on faith-integrated learning, graduates are prepared for diverse careers in various sectors. A 2.5 undergraduate GPA is required, but no specific prerequisite courses are needed, making it accessible to a broad range of students.

• Online 30-credit master's program
• 15+ months program duration
• $499 per credit hour
• Christian worldview integration
• Life coaching specialization
• No specific prerequisite courses
• 2.5 undergraduate GPA required
• Comprehensive student support services
• Tuition rate locked upon enrollment

*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.

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.