Javascript is currently not supported, or is disabled by this browser. Please enable Javascript for full functionality.

Skip to Main Content
    Saybrook University
   
 
  Mar 29, 2024
 
2019-2020 Academic Catalog and Student Handbook 
    
Catalog Navigation
2019-2020 Academic Catalog and Student Handbook [Archived Catalog]

Mind-Body Medicine, M.S.


Return to College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences Return to: College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences

Mind-body medicine is known as one of the leading complementary approaches in healthcare. In the past five years alone, thousands of studies have documented the therapeutic benefits of mind-body therapies on physical, mental, and emotional health.

Applying the principles and evidence supporting the effectiveness of mind-body approaches for health outcomes and overall wellbeing, students enrolled in the MS Mind-Body Medicine (MBM) program integrate the philosophy, science, and techniques of mind-body medicine in their personal and professional work. The curriculum presents a foundation of scholarship within the domains of integrative health, mind-body science, practice, research literacy, and ethics.  Students may choose to add a minor in integrative wellness coaching or integrative and functional nutrition to expand their knowledge and skills in one of these professional disciplines.

The MS 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. 

Depending on their professional interests, MS MBM 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 healthcare setting. 

Graduates are prepared to serve as health and wellness educators, coaches, consultants, directors, and managers in a variety of professional settings:

  • Private practice and independent consulting
  • Integrative medicine and wellness centers
  • Medical centers, hospitals, community health, primary care
  • Medical spas
  • Yoga retreat centers
  • Sports medicine
  • Corporate wellness programs
  • Colleges and universities

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Discuss contemporary issues affecting patient-centered care across disciplines in the field of integrative medicine.
  2. Explain the influence of biopsychosocial factors on general health and wellbeing and the implications for individuals, organizations, and/or communities. 
  3. Interpret the values, ethical principles, and practice standards that are paramount for multidisciplinary practitioners and researchers. 
  4. Assess and synthesize evidence, theories, and informed practices/interventions in integrative medicine. 
  5. Apply published research and critical thinking skills in academic papers, presentations, and/or communications. 
  6. Develop reflective practices and/or model adaptive skills in integrative healthcare and wellness. 
  7. Demonstrate multicultural competencies and diversity awareness, and support health equity and social justice in healthcare systems. 

Admission Requirements


Applicants for the MS degree in Mind-Body Medicine must submit the following documents:

  • An official transcript from an accredited university demonstrating successful completion of a bachelor’s degree, with a 3.0 GPA or better;
  • Professional resume or CV;
  • Personal statement; and
  • A sample of graduate level academic writing skills. Students with challenges in academic writing may be accepted, but will be required to take an academic writing class.
  • Three graduate transfer credits may be accepted to fulfill one elective or course requirement for the degree program. These credits must be suitable for transfer as determined by the department chair and registrar.

For further details regarding transfer credit policies, consult the Institutional Transfer Credit Guidelines section of the University Catalog for Course Descriptions  

Degree Requirements

The requirements for the MS MBM degree 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). If the graduate level writing course is required, an additional elective (3 credits) may be added to the degree requirements (42 credits).  The category requirements are listed below and in the degree program plan templates. Adding a minor in integrative wellness coaching or integrative and functional nutrition will add up to 3-12 more credits to the degree program. Pre-requisites must be met to register for certain courses.

Students enrolled in this degree program must attend three 5-day residential conferences (RC). They must also attend any additional RC days, as required for courses in which they choose to enroll.

Electives - 6 credits


MS MBM Degree Requirements - 39-42 credits


Option: Minor in Integrative Wellness Coaching (IWC) - 12 credits


Total Degree Requirements with Minor in IWC - 42-49 credits


By completing the required coursework in this minor, students also complete the Certificate in Integrative Wellness Coaching.  This certificate is approved by the International Coach Federation (ICF) for 88 hours of coach training and is also an Approved Transition Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC).  Graduates of the certificate are eligible to apply for additional credentialing through these organizations.

Option: Minor in Integrative and Functional Nutrition (IFN) - 12 credits


Select any four 3-credit IFN courses, except IFN 5703  or IFN 5704 , for a total of 12 credits. Pre-requisites must be met to register for certain courses.

Total Degree Requirements with Minor in IFN - 42-51 credits


MS MBM Degree Requirements for 2019-2020 Academic Year were approved by the CIMHS Degree Program Committee.

Notes:


  • The average time to complete the MS MBM degree requirements is 2 to 3 years.
  • A listing of acceptable CIMHS courses and electives are available in the university catalog and online Master Index. Students may also choose electives from other academic departments.
  • The MS MBM degree does not qualify graduates for medical licensure.
  • 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.
  • Courses marked with an asterisk require prerequisites.

Return to College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences Return to: College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences