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Master of Arts in
Mental Health and Ministry

School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy

Fuller’s new MA in Mental Health and Ministry degree prepares ministry and nonprofit leaders to support mental health and holistic well-being in diverse non-clinical settings such as churches, faith-based and humanitarian NGOs, prisons, rehabilitation centers, addiction recovery programs, and community services. This program does not lead to licensure, but is designed to empower pastors, chaplains, missionaries, and lay leaders around the globe to respond skillfully to mental health needs in their communities. Our long commitment to integrating theology and psychology uniquely positions Fuller to offer deeply rooted spiritual formation alongside rigorous mental health training.

Classes begin in Fall 2026.

Fully Online

Complete your degree from anywhere

Trauma-Informed Pastoral Care

Address issues in congregations and communities

Cross-Cultural Engagement

Develop contextual awareness and sensitivity

48 Quarter Units

Graduate in approximately 1.5 years

Request More Information About the MA in Mental Health Ministry

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Respond Skillfully to Mental Health Needs in Your Community

Understanding how to cultivate strong mental health is an in-demand leadership skill across many fields and industries, especially in ministry and nonprofit settings. Humans are multifaceted bearers of God’s image, which means that effective caring and discipleship ministries must account for emotional and mental well-being. Fuller’s MAMHM equips students with knowledge and tools grounded in psychology and systems thinking, theology, and cross-cultural engagement.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for the Master of Arts in Mental Health and Ministry program, applicants must submit an online application, essay responses, the names of two references, and official transcripts reflecting completion of an accredited bachelor's degree.

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Deeply Rooted Spiritual Formation and Rigorous Mental Health Training

The core curriculum provides a solid foundation in psychological science, trauma-informed pastoral care, cross-cultural communication and relationship dynamics, and theologies of healing. Students have the option to complete a concentration in Trauma-Informed Care and Ministry. Graduates will be equipped to (1) apply research and contextual awareness to provide non-clinical counseling that is culturally sensitive and evidence-based; (2) integrate individual and communal Christian spiritual practices and biblical principles into mental health support; and (3) exercise advanced leadership and communication skills to offer care and foster flourishing relationships.

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Curriculum

Coursework includes:

Foundational Course: This interdisciplinary course introduces the most helpful psychological paradigms for understanding what it means to be and become more fully human.

MAMHM Core Courses (7 Courses): Coursework will cover topics including integrating faith and mental health; ethics, boundaries, and resilience in ministry; and cross-cultural communication and relationship dynamics. The capstone course will focus on developing practical plans to address mental health issues within local congregations or communities.

Electives (4 Courses): Choose from a variety of advanced courses tailored to the nuances and complexities of your calling, or complete a concentration in Trauma-Informed Care and Ministry.

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Financial Aid

Nearly all Fuller students are eligible for some form of financial aid. Visit the Tuition and Financial Aid page for more information. Many students use federal financial aid to finance their education. If you plan on applying for federal loans, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. The FAFSA is available for all US citizens and residents only. Fuller’s federal school code is G01200.

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Contact Us

Office Hours

Monday–Friday
8 am – 5 pm (Pacific Time)

To view in-person Welcome Center hours for the Pasadena, Arizona and Houston campuses, click here.