Master of Science in Health Psychology (MSHP)

This course is an introduction to graduate studies in health psychology. Health psychologists use the scientific method to understand the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors to determine both health and illness. This area of psychology involves the application of psychological principles to prevent illness, improve personal health outcomes, and impact healthcare systems at large. Health psychologists work in helping professions, hospitals, social services, industry, government, and nonprofit organizations for which clinical training is not necessary. Current models/theories, subspecialties, history, ethical concerns, issues related to diversity, and research in health psychology will be explored.

This course examines sources, manifestations, and coping models for stress. A special emphasis is put on the role of thought and cognition in mediating stress. Students will develop an array of tools for dealing with stress in themselves and others.

This course introduces the student to evidence-based knowledge on the interaction between nutrition, behavior, and mental health. Various theoretical perspectives on nutrition and health-related behavior change will be introduced. Key behavioral nutrients are identified and the current research on how these nutrients interact with brain functioning and mental health will be assessed. Ethical issues in applying sound scientific knowledge on behavioral nutrition to diverse gender, ethno-cultural and age groups will also be addressed.

Upon the completion of this course, you will develop an understanding of the strengths and limitations of qualitative and quantitative approaches to research design. As a result of this newfound knowledge, you will become a more educated and discerning consumer of the existing published research. In addition, you will be more informed on how to effectively and ethically use these different research methods when designing research studies. 

This course will provide an overview of the collaborative care model as applied in health psychology. You will examine ethical considerations as well as the role of diversity while implementing this approach in healthcare settings. You also will interpret research findings relevant to mental health policy and legislation and  assess the model’s application in collaborative care and mental health policy.

This course introduces the graduate student to the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics and inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts and helping students to understand statistical methodologies used in psychology, and, more generally, to develop a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.

The Capstone course in Health Psychology is an opportunity to demonstrate a range of professional competencies and communication skills, reflecting the knowledge, critical thinking, sensitivity to ethics and diversity, and appreciation of research that has been acquired during the MS program. The Capstone course culminates in a review of the evidence based practices related to a specific issue of interest to the student in Health Psychology.

Students seeking a master’s degree in Health psychology may opt to complete their degree by taking an internship in Health Psychology instead of the Capstone course. During the internship experience, students will meet weekly with their assigned NCU professor as well as their approved internship site supervisor to discuss their experiences. Weekly assignments include submission of required evaluations and preparation for the final theoretically grounded presentation summarizing the internship experience. Internship experiences are designed to guide candidates through specific standards-aligned experiences with resulting growth in competencies demonstrated through application in practice.

The course focuses on the positive psychology principles of positive subjective experience, positive traits, and positive institutions. It is an emerging shift within the field of psychology. The emphasis includes a scientific investigation of the latest research of positive psychology focusing on positive human strengths such as optimism, gratitude, hope, and justice. The course offers an opportunity for theoretical exploration and practical application.

This course will cover the broad scope of substance use and dependence, and its impact on individuals, families, and society. This includes the costs of substance misuse in terms of lives lost, health problems, and financial losses. Students will explore theories and models of both etiology and treatment of substance use disorders, including the exploration of a variety of both legal and illicit substances, as well as the physiological and psychological processes of dependence. Prescription drug abuse, abuse of over the counter (OTC) drugs, and dietary supplements will also be covered, and gender and diversity issues are highlighted.

This course explores the concept of psychopathology and perspectives on what distinguishes mental health from mental illness and how research and assessment is applied to this field. Various diagnostic categories will be examined as well as the origins, prevention, and interventions related to psychopathology.

In this course, you will consider trauma as a threat to the meaning system of individuals, a threat that occurs in a cultural and ethnic background and has different meanings for diverse individuals. You will consider how individuals can prevent or prepare for traumatic events, the special situation of trauma in the military, and the role of meaning reconstruction in trauma recovery.

This course focuses on evidence based approaches for coaching others in the prevention of illness, promotion of health, and living optimally with chronic illness. Key processes such as goal setting, identification of obstacles, and use of personal support systems will be addressed.