Master of Science in Nutrition and Clinical Health Psychology (MSNCHP) Program

Can I do both the CHP & DPD tracks?
Yes.  It will probably take an extra year to complete your degree but it is possible.  Because the DPD track has slightly different admission requirements it is recommended that prospective students apply for that track and then work with an advisor to add the CHP upon acceptance.

Can I do both the CHP & Research tracks?
Absolutely, although students should always be aware that class schedule conflicts could arise. Core research classes and core psychology classes are not expressly accommodated in scheduling.

Is the MSNCHP program APA certified?
No.  It is designed to meet the WA state mental health licensure requirements and to prepare students to take the National Counseling Examination, which certain states require for licensure.  Students planning to practice outside of Washington state following graduation should check on the individual licensing requirements for their state to determine whether additional coursework may be required. 

What is CACREP? 
There is a national movement to standardize licensure and education for mental health counseling since currently mental health licensure requirements vary substantially from state to state.  CACREP (Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) is one organization that is at the forefront of national standardization for counseling.  In the future, if CACREP becomes the organization that coordinates national counseling licensure, Bastyr University will consider the feasibility of pursuing CACREP accreditation for the MSNCHP program..

What is the underlying psychological paradigm or emphasis of the program?
Bastyr University’s MSNCHP program does not rely solely on one paradigm.  The curriculum incorporates an array of theories so students can decide as providers what to offer their clients in accord with approaches that have been found to be effective and that best fit the recommended goals.

Is the Certified Nutritionist credential recognized outside of the state of Washington? 
This varies by state.  Refer to the American Dietetic Association website for further information: http://www.eatright.org/.

Will I be a licensed mental health counselor upon graduation?
No, you will be required to work as a mental health counselor with a supervisor signing off on your hours. In the state of Washington it is necessary to complete 3000 post-graduate supervised hours before qualifying to take the licensing exam.