Master of Science in Nutrition and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

The MSN/MACP dual-track program integrates training in nutritional counseling and mental health counseling, leading to licensure as a mental health counselor. The program includes a supervised practicum with a diverse patient population.
Length of Program: 3 years, full time.
Campus: Kenmore, Washington

Program Overview

Students that have a unique passion for nutrition and mental health will nurture their calling through Bastyr’s Master of Science in Nutrition and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MSN/MACP) dual-degree program. The program integrates clinical training in nutrition and mental health counseling, leading to licensure as a mental health counselor.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSN/MACP program are equipped to turn their calling into a career within various settings.

Mental health counselor
Lifestyle/behavior change counselor
Counselor for patients with eating disorders
Nutrition consultant
Nutrition educator
Nutritionist in select states
School counselor
Mental health and substance abuse social worker
Rehabilitation counselor
Marriage and family counselor
Prevention and wellness coach or consultant
Corporate wellness consultant

See examples of how our graduates use their nutrition and psychology degrees.

Campus Location - Seattle, WA

Seattle, Washington Campus

Set in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Bastyr’s expansive Seattle-area campus provides a serene, natural environment for students to deepen their health education. Our campus is located in the Seattle suburb of Kenmore, Washington, and encompasses 51 acres along the shore of Lake Washington.

At our Seattle-area campus, you’ll enjoy dynamic classroom environments and unique facilities for research, laboratory and clinical experiences. Our campus location also affords you easy access to the rich cultural experiences of the Seattle metropolitan area and unlimited exposure to the natural wonders of the Puget Sound region.

General Requirements

Length of Program

3 years, full-time, including two summer quarters

*Visit the program catalog for more information on exit exams and graduation requirements.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Speak to an advisor today to learn more about tuition costs or to find out about our financial aid programs!

Curriculum

Students in the MSN/MACP program will gain a deeper understanding of the holistic relationship between nutrition and mental health through clinical experience and lecture-style education. Reference our curriculum table for the number of credits per course, lecture hours each week and lab/clinic hours each week.

Students are guided by Bastyr faculty members who are experienced dietitian nutritionists, psychologists, counselors, researchers and experts on mind-body integration. This dual-track program prepares graduates with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to pursue a successful career as a mental health counselor. Expected learning outcomes of graduates can be found in the course catalog.

Contact an advisor to learn more about the Master of Science in Nutrition and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program.

Prerequisites

3.25 in prerequisite coursework (all classes listed as specific prerequisites)
3.25 cumulative GPA in science prerequisites with a B or better in Human Physiology, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and Microbiology
3.0 in nutrition coursework
3.0 cumulative undergraduate coursework
Entering students must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/university

Reference our curriculum table for full prerequisites.

A full course outline can be found in the Master of Science in Nutrition and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program description of the Academic Catalog.

Clinical Sites

The Bastyr Center for Natural Health is the University’s primary teaching clinic and the largest natural health clinic in the Pacific Northwest, serving 35,000 patients annually. The clinic’s natural, non-invasive approach takes into account the whole person to resolve chronic health problems and support a healthy lifestyle that helps prevent illness.

FAQs

Can I add the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) coursework to this program?

Yes. It will take an extra year to complete your degree but it is possible. Because the DPD program has slightly different admission requirements it is recommended that prospective students speak with an Admissions Advisor about this consideration early in the application process.

Can I add the thesis coursework to this program?

Yes, although students should be aware that class-schedule conflicts could arise. Adding the thesis coursework would be an appropriate consideration for any students considering future doctoral programs.

Is the MSN/MACP program CACREP-accredited?

No. CACREP (Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) is an organization that aims to standardize licensure and education for mental health counseling since mental health licensure requirements vary substantially from state to state. Our program was designed to meet the Washington and California state mental health licensure requirements and to prepare students to take the National Counseling Examination, which certain states require for licensure. Since licensure is governed by each individual state, students are encouraged to inquire directly on the individual licensing requirements for their state.

What is the underlying psychological philosophy or emphasis of the program?

Bastyr University’s MSN/MACP program does not rely solely on one paradigm, though the program has a unique focus in health psychology and as such incorporates the biopsychosocial model across all areas of curriculum. The curriculum also incorporates an array of theories so students can decide as providers what to offer their clients. The program also includes attention to diversity issues across the curriculum.

Is the Certified Nutritionist credential recognized outside of the state of Washington?

The Certified Nutritionist (CN) credential and scope of practice is fairly unique to the state of Washington. Students planning to practice outside of Washington state following graduation are responsible for contacting the Department of Health or other governing agency for the state(s) in which they plan to practice, as each state may have unique requirements for attaining either licensure or certification in order to practice nutrition services. Prospective and current students may access the University’s listing of contact agencies by professional programs, “Professional Licensing/Certification Agencies by State or District.”

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 3,000 post-graduate supervised hours before submitting an application to obtain licensure as a mental health counselor. However, you are eligible for employment as a counselor and to take the state licensing exam upon commencement.