Program Overview

Applied Positive Psychology, MAPP

Rapidly becoming one of psychology’s most transformative fields, positive psychology is the scientific study of the strengths that enable humans and organizations to flourish. The Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program at the University of Pennsylvania was the first in the world to offer a degree in this rigorous field of study. Dr. Martin E.P. Seligman, founder of the discipline of positive psychology, along with leading researchers and practitioners educate students at the cutting edge of the field. The MAPP curriculum is designed to educate students in the history, theory, and research methods of positive psychology, as well as its application in professional settings.

Curriculum

The program consists of nine courses, completed in one year of full-time study during consecutive fall, spring, and summer semesters.

• During the fall semester, students begin the program with courses that focus on the science, research, and theoretical underpinnings of positive psychology, giving students a strong foundation to build on throughout the remainder of the program.
• The spring semester courses offer content to help students learn how to apply positive psychology in various professional settings, including creating a plan for positive interventions in a real organization.
• The capstone project, which is completed during the summer semester, allows students to integrate what they’ve learned throughout the program and apply it in the professional or research domain most significant to them. It often serves as a stepping stone to the application of positive psychology in a particular professional domain or to further research in a specific area.

Course List

| Course List Code | Title | Course Units
---|---|---
Core Courses|
MAPP 6000| Introduction to Positive Psychology| 1
MAPP 6010| Research Methods and Evaluation| 1
MAPP 6020| Foundations of Positive Interventions| 1
MAPP 6030| Perspectives on Well-Being| 1
MAPP 7080| Positive Psychology and Individuals| 1
MAPP 7100| Humanities and Human Flourishing| 1
MAPP 7120| The Psychology & Neuroscience of Character| 1
MAPP 7140| Applying Positive Interventions in Institutions| 1
Capstone Course |
MAPP 8000| Capstone| 1
Total Course Units| 9

Capstone

The capstone project is a distinguishing feature of the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program, blending academic and professional experiences and serving as the culmination of students' work in the program. Through the capstone project, students explore, in depth, the theories and practical applications they’ve learned in the program, to advance the field of positive psychology itself.

The capstone is completed during the summer semester and has no on-site course requirements. Students conduct this project work independently, with their advisor’s ongoing guidance, in a setting that is significant to them and most relevant to their future professional goals.

Degree and Major Requirements

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.