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
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.
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.
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.
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.
You May Also Be Interested In
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy (MSMFT)
Integrate your Christian faith with bringing healing and wholeness to individuals, couples, and families in their relationships.
MA in Theology and Ministry (MATM)
Combines practical learning with biblical studies to prepare students to serve in a church, nonprofit, or other setting with theological and cultural competence.
MA in Global Missional Leadership (MAGML)
Applies insights from the study of mission to real-world ministry concerns, offering opportunities for deeper reflection to both seasoned and newer cross-cultural professionals.
Contact Us
Contact
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.