Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is expanding its academic offerings with the launch of a one-of-a-kind Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program. As the only program in the U.S. to fully integrate Catholic faith into clinical psychology training, it provides students with a unique opportunity to blend scientific expertise with spiritual and ethical principles. Rooted in the Lasallian Catholic tradition, the program emphasizes holistic well-being, professional excellence, and compassionate care.
This program prepares students to apply evidence-based psychological practices while honoring the role of spirituality and religion in healing. With growing demand for clinicians who incorporate faith into their work, Saint Mary’s ensures graduates are equipped to support clients’ mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being in diverse settings.
“Our goal is to prepare future mental health professionals who not only excel in clinical practice but also integrate evidence-based religion and spirituality into their approach to care,” said program director Anthony Isacco, Ph.D., at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. “This program uniquely equips students to meet the increasing demand for practitioners who understand the connection between spirituality and mental well-being, allowing them to serve clients with a truly holistic perspective.”
Key highlights of the program include:
- Two in-person residencies on the Minneapolis Campus to connect with faculty and deepen faith-integrated training.
- Study the Catholic Christian Meta-Model of the Person, integrating psychology with faith-based human dignity and well-being.
- Gain 720 hours of supervised clinical training aligned with APA accreditation and licensure requirements.
- Conduct research in Catholic-integrated clinical practice with opportunities for publication or conference presentation.
- Access to scholarship opportunities through Saint Mary’s Trusted Partnership Program with local and national organizations.
With a strong tradition of academic excellence, Saint Mary’s remains dedicated to fostering ethical leadership and service-driven education.
The program is set to begin in Fall 2025, with applications for prospective students due on July 1. To learn more about the M.S. in Clinical Psychology program and how to apply, visit smumn.edu/m-s-in-clinical-psychology/.
