| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Saybrook University is a private, nonprofit graduate institution in the United States, known for its focus on humanistic psychology, integrative health, and transformative social change. It offers master's and doctoral degree programs, primarily online with some residential components.
Founded: 1971
Type: Private, Nonprofit
Location: Pasadena, California (Headquarters); primarily operates online
Accreditation: Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Motto: "A Legacy of Humanistic and Transpersonal Thought"
Focus Areas: Humanistic psychology, mind-body medicine, counseling, integrative and functional nutrition, organizational leadership, and social impact.
Saybrook University offers graduate-level degrees, including:
Psychology & Counseling
Ph.D. in Psychology
M.A. in Psychology
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
M.A. in Counseling (Licensed Professional Counselor track available)
Integrative Health & Nutrition
Ph.D. in Mind-Body Medicine
M.S. in Integrative and Functional Nutrition
M.S. in Psychophysiology
Leadership & Organizational Studies
Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership & Transformation
M.A. in Transformative Social Change
Saybrook primarily offers online learning with periodic residential conferences (RCs) where students attend in-person workshops, networking sessions, and faculty meetings.
Strong emphasis on humanistic and transpersonal psychology, following the work of pioneers like Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers.
Offers programs that integrate holistic health, alternative medicine, and mind-body practices.
Focuses on social justice, personal transformation, and leadership.
Supports a diverse and adult-learner-friendly environment with flexible scheduling.
Saybrook has been associated with influential scholars in psychology and human sciences, including:
Stanley Krippner – Expert in humanistic psychology and dream studies.
Rollo May – Leading existential psychologist.
Individuals interested in humanistic and transpersonal psychology.
Professionals in mental health, counseling, or integrative medicine.
Those looking for online, flexible Ph.D. and master’s programs.
People passionate about social change, leadership, and holistic wellness.
A. Psychology & Humanistic Studies
These programs focus on humanistic, existential, and transpersonal psychology—following pioneers like Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers.
Ph.D. in Psychology
Specializations:
Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health
Creativity Studies
Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology
Psychophysiology
Psychotherapy and Counseling
M.A. in Psychology
Offers similar specializations as the Ph.D. program.
Prepares students for advanced research or applied psychology careers.
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Prepares professionals for leadership in counseling, training, and education.
M.A. in Counseling (Meets LPC requirements in some states)
Focuses on preparing students for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure.
Covers mental health counseling, trauma studies, and integrative therapy.
Programs emphasize mind-body medicine, holistic health, and integrative wellness.
Ph.D. in Mind-Body Medicine
Specializations:
Integrative Wellness Coaching
Biofeedback and Neurofeedback
Contemplative End-of-Life Care
M.S. in Integrative and Functional Nutrition
Focuses on holistic and evidence-based nutrition practices.
Prepares students for careers in health coaching, functional medicine, and nutrition consulting.
M.S. in Psychophysiology
Explores the connection between mind and body health using biofeedback and neurofeedback.
These programs focus on leadership, organizational psychology, and social change.
Focuses on leadership strategies, ethics, and social justice initiatives.
Covers topics like human rights, conflict resolution, and social activism.
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.A. in Psychology |
2-3 years |
$32,160 |
|
M.A. in Counseling (LPC Track Available) |
2-3 years |
$32,160 |
|
M.S. in Integrative and Functional Nutrition |
2 years |
$29,760 |
|
M.S. in Psychophysiology |
2-3 years |
$29,760 |
|
M.S. in Mind-Body Medicine |
2-3 years |
$29,760 |
|
M.A. in Transformative Social Change |
2 years |
$29,760 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Ph.D. in Psychology |
4-5 years |
$32,160 |
|
Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision |
4-5 years |
$32,160 |
|
Ph.D. in Mind-Body Medicine |
4-5 years |
$32,160 |
|
Ph.D. in Psychophysiology |
4-5 years |
$32,160 |
|
Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership & Transformation |
4-5 years |
$32,160 |
International students must meet the following requirements for admission:
Educational Qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree for master’s programs.
A master’s degree for doctoral (Ph.D.) programs.
English Language Proficiency (If English is Not the First Language):
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Minimum score: 80 iBT (internet-based test)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Minimum score: 6.5
Duolingo English Test
Minimum score: 105
(Note: Some students may qualify for an English waiver based on prior education in English-speaking institutions.)
Application Materials:
Online application (via Saybrook's website)
Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
Personal statement/Statement of Purpose
Letters of recommendation (varies by program)
Resume or CV
Visa Requirement:
Since Saybrook University’s programs are online, F-1 student visas are not issued.
Students can study from their home country without requiring a U.S. visa.
However, they may need a tourist visa (B-1/B-2) if they choose to attend the Residential Conferences (RCs) in person.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Select a graduate program (Master’s or Ph.D.) from Saybrook’s areas of study:
Psychology & Counseling
Integrative Health & Nutrition
Mind-Body Medicine
Organizational Leadership
Browse programs at.
Step 2: Meet Admission Requirements
For Master’s Programs (M.A./M.S.)
Bachelor’s degree (from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent)
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) preferred
English proficiency test (TOEFL/IELTS) for international students
For Doctoral (Ph.D.) Programs
Master’s degree (from an accredited institution)
Research experience is recommended
Minimum GPA of 3.0-3.5 preferred
(Some programs may have additional requirements)
Step 3: Prepare Application Materials
Required Documents:
Online Application Form (via Saybrook’s website)
Official Transcripts (from previous institutions)
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3)
Resume or CV
English Language Proficiency Test Scores (for international students)
(Some programs may require a writing sample or research proposal)
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Apply online through Saybrook’s application portal
Pay the non-refundable application fee
$50 for domestic applicants
$75 for international applicants
Rolling Admissions:
Saybrook University accepts applications year-round with multiple start dates.
Check specific program deadlines on their website.
Step 5: Admissions Interview (If Required)
Some programs may request an online interview with faculty.
Step 6: Receive Admission Decision
Notification: You’ll receive an email with your admission decision, usually within a few weeks.
Saybrook University follows a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are accepted year-round, with multiple start dates.
Intake |
Application Deadline (Approx.) |
Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Spring |
December – January |
January |
|
Summer |
April – May |
May |
|
Fall |
August – September |
September |
Tip: It’s recommended to apply at least 2-3 months before the preferred intake to allow time for processing, visa applications (if applicable), and financial planning.
A. Master’s Degree Programs (M.A. / M.S.)
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (preferred)
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL: 80 iBT
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 105
Other Requirements:
Personal statement
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
Resume/CV
Some programs may require a writing sample
B. Doctoral (Ph.D.) Degree Programs
Master’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0-3.5 (preferred)
Research experience (recommended)
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL: 80 iBT
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 105
Other Requirements:
Statement of Purpose
Academic writing sample (for some programs)
Letters of recommendation (usually 3)
Interview (if required by faculty)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Saybrook Institutional Scholarship |
Based on academic merit & financial need |
N/A |
Available for Master's & Ph.D. students |
|
President’s Scholarship |
Exceptional academic performance & leadership |
Up to $5,000 |
Awarded annually |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
High-achieving students in psychology, counseling, or health sciences |
Up to $3,000 |
Limited availability |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Students promoting diversity & social change |
N/A |
For students with a commitment to equity & justice |
|
Alumni Referral Scholarship |
New students referred by Saybrook alumni |
$1,000 |
One-time award |
|
External Scholarships |
Private scholarships from third-party organizations |
N/A |
Students encouraged to apply independently |
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Cost Per Night (USD) |
Cost Per Month (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hotel Stay (During RCs) |
Pasadena, CA (or event location) |
$100 – $250 |
N/A |
Saybrook provides hotel recommendations for RCs |
|
Extended Stay Hotels |
Pasadena, CA |
$2,500 – $4,500 |
N/A |
Includes amenities like kitchen, Wi-Fi |
|
Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) |
Pasadena, CA |
$80 – $200 |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
Ideal for students attending RCs |
|
Shared Apartments |
Pasadena, CA |
N/A |
$1,200 – $2,500 |
Renting with other students may reduce costs |
|
Student Housing (Private Providers) |
Los Angeles area |
N/A |
$900 – $1,800 |
Off-campus housing companies provide student residences |
1. Learning Experience
Saybrook students benefit from a flexible online education model, allowing them to balance studies with personal and professional commitments. The programs emphasize humanistic psychology, integrative health, leadership, and social change, encouraging students to apply their learning to real-world challenges.
2. Residential Conferences (RCs)
A key aspect of student life at Saybrook is the twice-yearly Residential Conferences (RCs), where students attend in-person sessions, workshops, and networking events. These conferences:
Provide opportunities to interact with faculty and peers.
Include guest lectures, workshops, and research presentations.
Offer hands-on learning experiences for certain programs (e.g., counseling, mind-body medicine).
RCs are usually held in Pasadena, California, or other locations in the U.S.
3. Online Student Community
Although Saybrook students study remotely, they remain engaged through:
Virtual classrooms with interactive discussions.
Discussion forums for academic and social interaction.
Student organizations focused on psychology, health sciences, and leadership.
Faculty mentorship and one-on-one academic advising.
4. Career & Professional Development
Saybrook University supports students in achieving their career goals by offering:
Career coaching and workshops on job placement, resume building, and entrepreneurship.
Internship opportunities in relevant fields such as psychology, counseling, and healthcare.
Networking with alumni and industry professionals through online events and RCs.
5. Diversity & Inclusivity
Saybrook embraces diversity and social justice in its curriculum and community. Students come from various backgrounds, including working professionals, career changers, and international learners, creating a rich and inclusive learning environment.
6. Wellness & Holistic Learning
Many Saybrook programs focus on mind-body wellness, and students have access to courses on meditation, mindfulness, and holistic health. The university promotes self-care and well-being as part of academic success.
7. Work-Life Balance for Students
Since most students are working professionals, Saybrook provides:
Flexible scheduling options to accommodate jobs and personal commitments.
Self-paced coursework in some programs.
Support services for students balancing education with life responsibilities.
8. Student Support Services
Saybrook University ensures that students receive the support they need through:
Academic advising and mentoring.
Technology support for online learning.
Counseling services for student well-being.
1. Career Support & Resources
Saybrook University assists students and alumni with career development through:
Career Coaching & Advising
Resume and cover letter reviews
Career planning and goal-setting
One-on-one coaching for job searches
Workshops & Webinars
Career development sessions
Industry-specific networking events
Leadership and entrepreneurship training
Internship & Practicum Opportunities
Some programs (e.g., counseling, psychology) require clinical practicums or internships.
Saybrook helps students find suitable placements in mental health centers, hospitals, research institutions, and wellness clinics.
Alumni & Professional Networking
Saybrook has a strong alumni network in psychology, healthcare, education, and leadership.
Students can connect with industry professionals through LinkedIn groups, virtual meetups, and Residential Conferences (RCs).
2. Career Outcomes by Program
Ph.D. in Psychology & Counseling
Clinical Psychologist (with licensure)
Researcher or Academic Professor
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Organizational or Corporate Psychologist
M.A. in Counseling (LPC Track)
Mental Health Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT)
Addiction Counselor
Ph.D. in Mind-Body Medicine / M.S. in Integrative & Functional Nutrition
Health & Wellness Coach
Holistic Healthcare Practitioner
Functional Nutritionist
Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership & Transformation
Leadership Consultant
Corporate Trainer
Nonprofit Director
3. Average Salaries After Graduation
Career Field |
Average Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|
|
Clinical Psychologist |
$85,000 – $110,000 |
|
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) |
$50,000 – $80,000 |
|
Organizational Psychologist |
$90,000 – $120,000 |
|
Health & Wellness Coach |
$45,000 – $75,000 |
|
University Professor (Psychology) |
$70,000 – $110,000 |
(Salaries depend on experience, location, and industry.)
4. Does Saybrook University Guarantee Job Placements?
No, Saybrook does not offer guaranteed job placements, but it provides the necessary career resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help students find jobs in their fields.
5. How to Enhance Career Prospects at Saybrook?
Participate in internships and practicums for hands-on experience.
Attend Residential Conferences (RCs) to network with faculty and professionals.
Use Saybrook’s career services for resume building and interview prep.
Join professional organizations (APA, ACA, ICF) for industry connections.
Saybrook University has a high acceptance rate, estimated to be around 85% – 90%. This is because the university focuses on admitting motivated graduate students who align with its mission of humanistic psychology, integrative health, and leadership.
Holistic Admission Process – Saybrook evaluates applicants based on:
Academic qualifications (Bachelor’s for Master’s programs, Master’s for Ph.D. programs)
Personal statement and professional goals
Relevant work or research experience
Letters of recommendation
Flexible Admission Criteria – While a minimum GPA of 3.0 is recommended, applicants with lower GPAs may be considered based on their professional experience and statement of purpose.
No Standardized Test Requirement – GRE/GMAT is not required, making the process more accessible.
Working professionals looking for career advancement
Students with a strong passion for psychology, counseling, leadership, or health sciences
Applicants who align with Saybrook’s humanistic and transformative education approach
Saybrook University operates primarily as an online graduate institution, but its administrative headquarters and in-person events are based in Pasadena, California, USA.
Main Campus / Headquarters:
Saybrook University
55 Eureka Street, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA
No Traditional Campus: Saybrook does not have a traditional physical campus with dormitories or classrooms, as most programs are fully online.
Residential Conferences (RCs):
Held twice a year at hotels or conference centers in locations like Pasadena, CA and other U.S. cities.
Provide in-person learning, networking, and faculty interactions.
Administrative & Faculty Offices:
The Pasadena headquarters handles admissions, student support, and faculty operations.
Students do not need to visit the campus unless attending an event.
