Degree Requirements: See Requirements Tab
Completion Time: 2 to 3 years
Earned Credits: 39
As part of the online M.S. in Mind-Body Medicine program, students will gain knowledge and skills in different areas, such as:
- Psychophysiology and the stress response
- Applications in mindfulness
- Movement modalities
- Guided imagery
- Neuroscience
- Applied hypnosis or applied biofeedback
- Spirituality
- Integrative coaching
- Integrative nutrition
Applying the principles and evidence supporting the effectiveness of mind-body approaches for health outcomes and overall wellbeing, students enrolled in the Master’s in Mind-Body Medicine (MBM) program integrate the philosophy, science, and techniques of mind-body medicine in their personal and professional work.
The online Master’s MBM program attracts students from a broad range of education and career backgrounds in health, wellness, education, and non-healthcare fields. Nurses, therapists, coaches, yoga instructors, dieticians, nutritionists, educators, business consultants, and recent graduates from other degree programs, represent the student body. This degree does not qualify graduates for medical licensure.
Our Mind-Body Medicine program appeals to students for a variety of reasons, one of which is that our Mind-Body medicine degree program has evolved along with the ever-changing field of integrative health. Our MBM Master’s degree is offered online making it extremely flexible and convenient for our students.
Depending on their professional interests, M.S. in Mind-Body Medicine students may need to pursue additional education in doctoral studies if they intend to teach graduate level courses, conduct research, or seek employment in a health care setting. Additionally, the following should be taken into consideration:
- The M.S. in Mind-Body Medicine degree does not qualify graduates for medical licensure.
- The average time to complete the online MBM master’s degree requirements is two to three years.
- Students also may choose to pursue a nationally recognized certificate in clinical hypnosis, biofeedback, or integrative wellness coaching. Refer to the departments of Applied Psychophysiology and Integrative Wellness Coaching to learn more.
Available Minors for the online MBM Master’s Degree:
- Integrative and Functional Nutrition
- Integrative Wellness Coaching
More MBM Master’s program information can be found in our academic catalog.
The requirements for the Master’s in Mind-Body Medicine program include 39 credits within specific categories of coursework: core (12 credits), research (6 credits), mind-body science (6 credits), practice (9 credits), and electives (6 credits). Adding a minor will add 3 to 12 more credits to the degree program. Prerequisites must be met to register for certain courses.
Students enrolled in this MBM Master’s degree program must attend Residential Conferences (RCs) if their courses require attendance.
New M.S. and Ph.D. Mind-Body Medicine students must provide official transcripts showing completion of an undergraduate or graduate-level science course in anatomy and/or physiology, taken within the last 10 years with a minimum grade of B or better. Students lacking this introductory science prerequisite course may be admitted by using an elective to accommodate the addition of IFN 5704 Anatomy and Physiology within their first year. Alternatively, students may complete the basic anatomy and physiology course from Saybrook’s academic partner, Straighterline.
Mind-Body Therapies and Practices
This course introduces students to the principles and evidence supporting mind-body practices as one of the leading complementary approaches in the health care field. A large amount of published research supports the effectiveness of mind-body medicine for health outcomes and overall well-being. Thousands of studies have documented the therapeutic benefits of mind-body therapies on physical, mental, and emotional health. Through the weekly readings, discussions, and practices, students will have opportunities to integrate these principles and techniques in their personal life and professional work.
Complementary and Integrative Medicine
This survey course introduces integrative professions and practices within a system for health, wellness, and healing. Throughout the term, students will critically investigate the research literature supporting the paradigms, practices, and services associated with complementary systems including naturopathy, manual, and traditional medicine. In addition, specific modalities within the systems will also be explored. These topics include naturopathy, homeopathy, herbal medicine, chiropractic medicine, massage therapy and bodywork, traditional African and Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and Ayurveda. The final module concludes with an examination of trends and opportunities in the field of integrative health and wellness.
3 credits
Mindfulness, Meditation, and Health
This course is both theoretical and experiential. Students learn about and discuss the origins of mindfulness practices, the modern scientific underpinnings of mindfulness research, and multiple applications of mindfulness in medicine, health care, and society. Students learn and are supported in the personal development of a simple mindfulness practice. Students’ personal experiences are the basis for understanding mindfulness as a tool for stress management, self-awareness, and self-efficacy. Students are also encouraged to assess the appropriateness of mindfulness in their own lives as a spiritual practice and a way of life.
Is the MBM Master’s program online?
Yes, the Master’s in Mind-Body Medicine is offered only online. This allows students worldwide to access our exceptional Mind-Body Medicine program with skilled professors, resources, and networking opportunities. Keep in mind that though all required coursework is done virtually, Residential Conference (RC) may be required for certain courses with a residential training component.
How long does the Master’s in Mind-Body Medicine program take to complete?
The expected length of the Master’s MBM program is two to three years with 39 earned credits.
Is the Master’s MBM program flexible for students who are working?
Yes! Saybrook offers the Master’s in Mind-Body Medicine online with a flexible completion time. Choose from part-time to full-time course loads that fit your schedule. MBM online Master’s courses are offered in an asynchronous format, giving you even more flexibility with your schedule.
What can I do with a Master’s in Mind-Body Medicine?
There are various Mind-Body career paths such as private practice, independent consulting, integrative medicine and wellness centers, medical centers, hospitals, community health, and primary care. Some careers may require further education, certifications, and licensure.
“Influenced by humanistic principles and values, the College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences empowers faculty and students to apply their knowledge and skills to facilitate mind, body, and spirit wellness in personal and professional life.”
—Devorah Curtis, Ph.D., Mind-Body Medicine Department Chair