Master of Applied Positive Psychology

Innovative Thinking!

Learn to apply the principles and tools of positive psychology to any professional domain (including psychology, education, life coaching, research, health, and business), or as preparation for further study in a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. program.

Whether you want to transform a business, institution, or practice, or whether you’re preparing to specialize in positive psychology within a clinical or research career, Penn’s innovative, 9-course Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program through the College of Liberal and Professional Studies (LPS) offers you a great graduate-level opportunity. And you can pursue the program without interrupting your career.

Rooted in the work of Dr. Martin Seligman, world-renowned founder of positive psychology and Fox Leadership Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, the MAPP program explores the history, theory, and basic research methods of positive psychology. This new branch of psychology focuses on such issues as the empirical study of positive emotions, strengths-based character, and healthy institutions. You’ll learn to apply these aspects of positive psychology in your particular professional setting.

At Penn, you’ll join a diverse, intellectually stimulating community of peers with wide-ranging personal and professional interests, who are united by a deep commitment to the concept of positive psychology, by an ability to grasp the theory and application of research tools in the field, and by well-articulated goals for the application of their coursework.

Listen to a Virtual Information Session (also available on iTunes U) where MAPP administrators, faculty, and students outline the program in detail and answer questions. You’ll also hear alumni describe how they apply the MAPP degree to their professions. Complete the online form to receive PowerPoint slides and an email with access to the presentation.

Apply today through the College of Liberal and Professional Studies to begin your Master of Applied Positive Psychology program.

Video: Martin Seligman on TED

"Martin Seligman talks about psychology — as a field of study and as it works one-on-one with each patient and each practitioner. As it moves beyond a focus on disease, what can modern psychology help us to become?" More>