Seattle University

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines clinical knowledge, community mental health practice and applied skills for allied professions. Coursework covers assessment and diagnosis, evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, lifespan developmental psychopathology, trauma-informed care, substance-use intervention, and crisis intervention. Core modules typically include clinical assessment and diagnosis, psychotherapy theories and techniques, ethics and professional issues, multicultural counselling and social justice, integrated care and interprofessional collaboration, and research methods for practice.

Students also complete practicum placements in community agencies, hospitals, schools or outpatient clinics with supervised clinical hours that develop direct client work, case formulation, and programme planning skills. The curriculum emphasises cultural humility, client-centred care, system-level thinking and reflective practice. Elective options or seminar series may address topics such as child and adolescent mental health, geriatric mental health, integrated behavioural health in primary care, and advanced interventions for trauma.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. Typical admission materials include a personal statement outlining professional objectives and relevant experience, academic transcripts, two or more letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae or résumé. Some programmes or pathway tracks may request evidence of prior coursework in psychology, human development or related subjects, and relevant volunteer or paid experience in health, social services or counselling is advantageous.

Seattle University applies a holistic review, so additional considerations can include work or community experience, leadership, and alignment with the university’s values such as social justice and service. Where relevant, applicants should be prepared for background checks and documentation of immunisations or health clearances required by practicum sites.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of clinical and allied-professional roles across community mental health agencies, hospitals, schools, substance-use services, correctional and juvenile justice settings, and non‑profit organisations. Common job titles include mental health clinician, community behavioural health specialist, case manager, behavioural health coordinator, outreach therapist, and programme director for community services.

Those pursuing licensure (where applicable) can use the programme’s clinical hours and supervised practicum toward credentialling requirements for professional counselling or clinical social work, subject to state regulations. Graduates may also move into roles in administration, policy, programme development, training, or continue into doctoral study and research in mental health and allied professions.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University offers a personalised learning environment with small cohorts and faculty who combine academic expertise with applied clinical experience. Located in a major Pacific Northwest city, the university has access to a broad network of practicum and partnership sites across public, private and community sectors, supporting diverse clinical placements.

The programme reflects the university’s commitment to ethical practice and social justice, preparing practitioners who are culturally responsive and community-oriented. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across health and human services schools, opportunities for community engagement in a diverse urban setting, and mentorship that supports both professional formation and career planning.