Master of Applied Positive Psychology

This subject introduces the science of positive psychology. Students will critically examine the historical development of the field, distinguish amongst different conceptualisations of wellbeing and flourishing, and develop a foundation in core constructs that contribute to and support wellbeing and resilience. The subject focuses on scientifically-sound processes and techniques, with the aim of helping students to become critical consumers of the literature. Interactive sessions and assignments will help students engage with, and begin to apply wellbeing science in their context and provides a strong foundation for subsequent subjects.

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This subject examines a range of positive psychological approaches that can be delivered to individuals, groups and communities across a variety of mediums. Students are introduced to the theory and research underlying different approaches, and through experiential learning approaches, beginning with self-experimentation and extending to others, students critically evaluate the contextual relevance of different approaches. A particular emphasis is given to intersections between research and practice, with implications for working with different populations, as well as novel interventions.

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Supporting an integrative, inter-disciplinary approach to wellbeing, this subject explores systems informed approaches to positive development and functioning, moving discourse, theory, research, and practice beyond the individual to include broader human social systems. Through experiential learning opportunities, students will unpack the philosophical and methodological assumptions that drive the positive psychology and wellbeing science fields and consider practical implications of a systems-informed perspective.

Students will be introduced to a variety of systems-awareness tools, considering their practical utility in different contexts and across different situations. Students will identify the dynamic impact of factors such as culture, communities, and politics, on individual and collective wellbeing. Students will also explore systems-based approaches to sustainable change, which address the complexity of individual and collective behaviour change.

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This subject explores the application of the positive psychology perspective within organisations, including government, for-profit, not-for-profit, and educational settings. Key social and identity processes that shape people’s behaviours, wellbeing, and performance within the workplace are examined. Organisational culture is explored, and a recognition of the complexities of organisations are identified. Drawing on a range of disciplines, including organisational behaviour, management, leadership development, and positive organisational scholarship, students examine micro and macro approaches to organisational science.

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This subject critically examines approaches to, criticisms of, and advances in interdisciplinary wellbeing-related research. Students are introduced to methodologies traditionally used within positive psychology research and related disciplines, developing skills in critically reading and engaging with the literature. Key critiques and debates in the field are examined, drawing on a range of disciplinary perspectives, with consideration around implications for applications of the science. With an eye towards the future, students are introduced to innovations in the field by leading practitioners and scholars, with collective consideration of implications for research and practice.

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This subject examines the design, delivery, and evaluation of positive interventions and approaches to fostering wellbeing and other positive outcomes across a range of contexts, such as at home, in the workplace, and in the local community. Nuances of delivery format in each delivery setting will be presented, discussed and critiqued. Ethical issues associated with applying positive interventions relevant to each context will be discussed, drawing upon guidelines from various disciplines. Strategies for evaluating the effectiveness, efficacy, and implementation of interventions and programs will be considered. Through experiential approaches, students will gain clarity on the design and implementation of programs, an appreciation of ethical practice, and understanding of basic evaluation skills.

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The Professional capstone draws on theory, knowledge, and skills gained throughout the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program. Students reflect upon and further explore key learnings in positive psychology and the wellbeing sciences, and explore a variety of research-related approaches used in the field.

Applied to the Capstone project, students design a project grounded in the science of positive psychology or wellbeing science, within the context of their choice. Students will be expected to critically review relevant literature, document planning decisions, and consider methods for evaluating intervention/study outcomes. Students then apply this knowledge to a professional context of their choice, including sharing aspects of their capstone project in both written and verbal forms.

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