Graduate School of Psychology

The mission of the Graduate School of Psychology is to offer graduate psychology degree programs that are engaged, embodied, contemplative and informative. Each program offers students a process of learning, reflection, integration and mindful practice in relation to service in the world. Drawing from a rich diversity of traditional and innovative theories, students learn to apply compassion and discernment to specific situations.

Students are introduced to and encouraged to deepen contemplative practices that enhance self-awareness and inform relationship. These practices serve as a potent means for holding the tension for perceived opposites, including emptiness and form, stillness and movement, body and mind.

Curricula are rooted in experientially based embodied ways of knowing including empathetically based critical thinking, community practices and inclusive and pluralistic values. From this ground of experience, students naturally discover their personal expression of responsible service in the world.

The counseling programs of the Graduate School of Psychology convey the subject matter of their respective disciplines within a framework of training and education so that graduates may serve as professional counselors. Naropa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Thus, graduates of our program are able to inform licensing boards and potential employers that they graduated from a regionally accredited program.

Learners are strongly encouraged to carefully research the educational requirements for the intended licensure or certification in the state(s) where they intend to seek licensure or certification. Although the programs of the Graduate School of Psychology are not currently approved by the Council for Accreditation and Other Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the faculty has developed the curricula with CACREP requirements, as well as other recognized professional and national standards, including the state of Colorado, in mind. Please note that the licensure requirements of state boards and licensing agencies vary from state to state and change over time. Consequently, successful completion of degree requirements does not guarantee that a state board or licensing agency will accept a graduate’s application for licensure. It is important that learners are aware of their responsibilities regarding licensure and certification; advisors are available to discuss professional and career matters with learners and graduates.