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Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MC-APP) // Attributes, outcomes and skills
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About this course
- Overview
- Entry and participation requirements
- Attributes, outcomes and skills
- Course structure
- Further study
Contact
Melbourne Graduate School of Education
Currently enrolled students
Future students:
Coordinator
Aaron Jarden
Intended learning outcomes
Students who complete the Master of Applied Positive Psychology should be able to:
- Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the conceptual and theoretical foundations of positive psychology.
- Identify previous works, scholars and developments that have influenced the field of positive psychology.
- Synthesise different well-being frameworks from various disciplines (e.g., psychology, philosophy, sociology, medicine, occupational health)
- Critically review current research in the area of positive psychology.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the scientist-practitioner model and its relevance in positive psychology.
- Develop strategies for working with individuals, groups and systems on enhancing optimal functioning and health promotion.
- Identify and critically evaluate assessment methods currently employed in positive psychology.
- Identify common positive interventions used in a wide range of contexts (e.g., education, workplaces, community settings).
- Critically reflect on professional strengths and weaknesses and develop strategies for addressing these.
- Adopt an innovative approach to knowledge acquisition and application.
- Demonstrate a professional and ethical approach to the practice of positive psychology.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the important factors that are conducive to sustained behaviour change.
- Demonstrate an understanding of effective approaches to engaging and working with diverse groups and complex systems.
- Apply foundational research skills to complete a research project
- Demonstrate a capacity to communicate research results clearly, comprehensively and persuasively.
Generic skills
In addition to learning specific skills associated with the Master of Applied Positive Psychology, graduates will develop the following generic skills which will be valuable throughout life:
- Problem solving skills which are innovative and solution focused.
- Analytical skills and the ability to construct and articulate logical arguments.
- Collaborative and teamwork skills through working with fellow students.
- Ability to critically investigate, revise and review new ideas and approaches.
- Effective organisational and planning skills.
- Effective communication (oral and written) skills.
- A sound knowledge of behaviour change methods.
- The gathering and use of supporting evidence and data.
Graduate attributes
The Master of Applied Positive Psychology will enable graduates to achieve the following University of Melbourne Graduate Attributes:
- Academically excellent: graduates will develop in-depth research and evidence-based knowledge of positive psychology. They will demonstrate a high level of achievement in writing, research methods and analysis, problem-solving and communication. Graduates will be critical and creative thinkers, with an aptitude for continued self-directed learning and be adept at learning in a range of ways such as through experiential methods, group work, independent activities and information and communication technologies.
- Knowledgeable across disciplines: graduates will critically examine, synthesise and evaluate knowledge across a broad range of disciplines, particularly those with relevance to mental health such as psychology, sociology, public health, occupational health and education. They will expand their analytical and cognitive skills through a variety of learning experiences and collaborative learning processes. As a result of completing the Master of Positive Psychology, graduates will acquire a set of flexible and transferable skills relevant to a diverse range of employment opportunities.
- Leaders in communities: Graduates of the Master of Applied Positive Psychology will be prepared for leadership roles in a vast range of settings and will be well resourced to initiate and implement constructive change with individuals, organisations and community groups. Theywill also demonstrate excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills, including an awareness of their personal strengths and areas of professional competence, as well as their limitations and competency boundaries. Graduates will demonstrate professional integrity and sound ethical practices. They will provide mentorship to ensure best practice standards are sustained for the profession at large. Graduates will be aware of community needs and will actively engage in public discourse with the goal of achieving improved mental health services that focus on early intervention and prevention.
- Attuned to cultural diversity: Graduates of the Master of Applied Positive Psychology will be working with a variety of individuals and groups from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. Graduates will value different perspectives and lifestyle choices and will be well-informed and resourceful citizens who strive to meet the needs of a wide range of client groups.
- Active global citizens: Graduates of the Master of Applied Positive Psychology will accept social and civic responsibilities and will be strong advocates of community and voluntary work. They will value pro-social activities and will demonstrate a high regard for human rights, equity and ethics. They will recognise that health and education are important mechanisms for empowering people and mitigating the adverse effects of inequity and disadvantage.
Last updated: 10 February 2024