Program Overview

Program Overview

The Adler University Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness (MOPHW) is a 36-credit, specialized nonclinical degree that prepares professionals for leadership roles that enhance health outcomes. As one of the only programs of its kind in Canada, this cutting-edge master’s program goes beyond theory, providing students with hands-on expertise in psychometric assessment, wellness program design, and evidence-based leadership — equipping them to challenge the status quo, implementing innovative solutions, shaping policy, and leading efforts that drive lasting change in health care, public health, and community organizations.

Program Delivery and Format

The MOPHW program is offered in a flexible, blended delivery model, with courses primarily on campus and some options online.

Capstone

Students complete a capstone project focused on secondary research in health and wellness, allowing them to synthesize existing studies to address real-world health challenges. Through this structured five-chapter manuscript, students will deepen their expertise and develop as subject matter experts in their chosen areas.

Student Outcomes

Program Objectives

• Program Objective 1: Analyze key principles impacting individuals, systems, and communities in relation to health and wellness.
• Program Objective 2: Evaluate ethical and cultural considerations in health and wellness interventions.
• Program Objective 3: Design and implement evidence-based qualitative and quantitative research strategies.
• Program Objective 4: Develop strategies to assess, refine, and scale wellness programs at local, national, and global levels.
• Program Objective 5: Examine the role of policy, systems, and environmental factors in shaping health outcomes and advocate for systemic change.

Careers

Graduates of the Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness Program will apply their professional skill and knowledge base to various fields in entry-level to middle management roles related to:

• Human Resources
• Government
• Business and Industry
• Healthcare
• Education
• Addictions
• Family and Domestic Violence
• Child and Older Adult Services
• Public Safety and Emergency Management
• Nongovernmental Organizations and Nonprofits

Curriculum

The Master of Psychology in Health and Wellness requires the following 36 credits of coursework.

Core Coursework

Courses include a mix of both online and in-person classes.

• MOPHW 500 | History & Systems for Applied Psychology (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 501 | Current Issues and Applications in the Psychological Sciences I (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 503 | Ethics & Socially Responsible Practice (3 cr.)
• MAIOP 546 | Research Methods in Organizational Psychology (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 504 | Community Psychology (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 505 | Diversity & Individual Differences (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 506 | Cognitive, Affective, and Biological Bases of Behaviour (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 512 | Positive Psychology for Health & Wellness (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 513 | Mindfulness-Based Approaches to Health & Wellness (3 cr.)
• MOPHW 514 | Biological Bases for Health & Wellness (3 cr.)

Capstone

• MOPHW 650 | Capstone Prep (2 cr.)
• MOPHW 651 | Capstone I (1 cr.)
• MOPHW 652 | Capstone II (1 cr.)

Social Justice Practicum

• MAIOP 222 Social Justice Practicum I (1 cr.)
• MAIOP 225 Social Justice Practicum II (1 cr.)

Admissions Requirements

At Adler University, students represent a wide range of professional interests, backgrounds, and academic and work histories. We admit individuals with a strong record of academic achievement and a commitment to social responsibility.

Applicants to the program must have the following:

• A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Evidence of interest and experience in social change efforts.
• A GPA of 3.0 or higher for all undergraduate or graduate coursework.
• 92 or better on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) with no band lower than 22.
• 7.0 IELTS overall with no bands below 6.5.
• PTE must have a minimum score of 62.

Applicants are required to submit the following items to be considered for admission:

• Application and application fee
• Statement of Intent answering the following questions:
  • Your letter should be coherent, well-organized and reflect your voice and experiences. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for psychology and suitability for the Adler University master’s program. Ensure your letter is double-spaced, does not exceed three (3) pages, and please use “headings” so that you answer each question.
    • Who are you, and where do you come from?
      • Describe your background, including where you grew up and any significant personal experiences, family influences, or cultural factors shaping your interest in psychology.
    • What ignited your passion for psychology?
      • Discuss a specific event, experience, or realization that sparked your interest in psychology. Include any relevant coursework, research, volunteer work, or personal experiences that have further fueled your passion for the field.
    • Why are you interested in the master’s program at Adler University?
      • Explain why you are specifically interested in the master’s program you are applying for at Adler University.
    • Where do you see yourself in future practice?
      • Describe your career aspirations and how you plan to apply your degree in your future career. Whether it be in consulting, research, teaching, or another area within psychology, explain how you intend to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
    • Personal Reflection: What is your greatest strength and area for improvement, academically and professionally?
      • Reflect on your greatest strength and your area for academic and professional development. Provide specific examples that highlight these aspects of your development.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition for Adler University’s programs is charged each term according to the number of registered academic credits. The number of credits a student will register for varies by academic program and by term.

Faculty

• Jason Walker, Psy.D., Ph.D., CPHR Program Director, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness
• DaLissa Alzner, RP(q), MACP Adjunct Professor, Psychology in Health and Wellness
• Jill Cummings, Ph.D. Adjunct Professor, Psychology in Health and Wellness
• Michal Fedeles Adjunct Professor, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs
• Helen Ngoc Lu, M.Ed., RCC, Ph.D. Adjunct Professor, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs
• Hawwa Shiuna Musthafa, PhD., M.Ed., BA., B.Ed., CDP Adjunct Professor, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs
• Cole Renner Adjunct Professor, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs
• Sophia Rezvani, MESc Adjunct Faculty, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs
• Lilya Shienko, Ph.D. Adjunct Faculty, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs
• Alireza Sedghi Taromi, Ph.D., RCC Adjunct Faculty, Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness Programs