Master of Science (MS) Mental Health and Wellness: Prevention

Earn Your Master of Science in Mental Health Prevention Online

Earn your prevention science degree online at Grand Canyon University, and prepare to pursue a successful career in service to others. The Master of Science in Mental Health and Wellness with an Emphasis in Prevention is a dynamic and interdisciplinary degree program that explores the nature of mental and spiritual resiliency. This degree is an intensive survey of human nature, psychopathology and best practices in treatment modalities.

Offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the MS in Mental Health and Wellness prevention science degree guides students in developing foundational knowledge that translates to the fields of human services and community health. Grounded in evidence-based practices, the rigorous curriculum inspires students to reach new academic heights as they study how to serve others by effectively advocating for healthy mental, cognitive and spiritual behaviors.

What Is Prevention Science?

Prevention science is a burgeoning career field that promotes proactive wellness practices to reduce rates of mental and behavioral health disorders. Students will gain a solid understanding of mental health prevention, including knowledge and skills that are immediately applicable in the field. Fully qualified instructors guide students in learning best practices for working with clients across the lifespan, as well as developing, implementing and evaluating community-wide mental health initiatives.

GCU is a private Christian university. There is an emphasis on the Christian worldview and issues pertaining to professional ethics standards. Students are inspired to become servant leaders who effectively communicate and make ethical decisions in a leadership role.

Study Methods and Modalities for Preventive Care in the Mental Health & Wellness MS with an Emphasis in Prevention

This Master of Science in mental health and wellness - prevention science degree is available online at GCU via our intuitive learning platform that facilitates collaboration and connectivity. A total of 34 credits are required for completion. Most online courses are eight weeks in length. Some of the courses included with this program are:

• Prevention Throughout the Lifespan
• Community Program Development, Implementation and Evaluation
• Mental Health, Wellness and Health Care Integration
• Ethics and Cultural Diversity in Mental Health and Wellness
• Specific Prevention Topics

There is a focus on evidence-based prevention programs and practices. Students will examine the influences of cultural dynamics on the prevention science field. The comprehensive curriculum explores the role of prevention science as the first line of defense, such as the SAMHSA prevention initiative, and the environmental influences on the implementation of effective prevention programming.

All mental health prevention MS students are required to complete the Mental Health and Wellness Capstone. This course provides a real-world look at the mental health and wellness field through the lens of career opportunities, practical applications and common responsibilities in the field.

Lead Innovative Initiatives in Mental Health Prevention

The prevention or mitigation of the effects of mental illnesses is essential for preserving quality of life. Prevention science in mental health may help lower rates of the consequences of mental illnesses, including unemployment, incarceration, homelessness and suicide ideation. Graduates with prevention science degrees are well-positioned to build a meaningful career in service to others in need. As an aspiring mental health specialist, you may pursue work in any of the following settings:

• Churches and other faith-based organizations
• Social service agencies
• Hospitals and community health clinics
• Schools and universities
• Community-based organizations

This Master of Science in Mental Health and Wellness - Prevention degree does not lead to counseling or psychology licensure. This degree is geared toward individuals who are currently working in or plan to work in an administrative position, in a leadership role, or in a mental health specialist position that does not require licensure.