- Spring 2026 Priority Deadline: November 6, 2025
- Spring 2026 Regular Deadline: December 4, 2025
Launch Term: Spring 2026
The fully online Certificate in Health Psychology at the CUNY School of Professional Studies offers students a strong foundation in the growing field of health psychology—the study of how psychological, social, and biological factors influence health, illness, and healthcare.
This program is ideal for students interested in careers in health and human services, behavioral health, or those planning to continue into a psychology or healthcare degree program. With asynchronous, flexible online courses, the program is designed to fit into the lives of working adults, caregivers, and part-time students.
Why Study Health Psychology at CUNY SPS?
- 100% online, flexible learning for busy students
- Focus on real-world applications of psychology in healthcare and wellness
- Courses taught by experienced faculty in psychology, health sciences, and public health
- Credits can be applied toward the BA in Psychology degree
What You’ll Learn
The 15-credit Certificate in Health Psychology includes courses that explore:
- The relationship between mind, body, and health
- How culture, identity, and community impact physical and mental health
- Health behavior change and chronic illness
- Research methods and evidence-based practice in psychology
Courses include:
- PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology
- PSY 362: Health Psychology
- PSY 364: Health Behavior Change
- PSY 366: Psychological Determinants of Health Disparities
- PSY 368: Coping with Chronic Illness
Career Opportunities
This certificate supports entry-level or mid-career roles in:
- Public health and community outreach
- Healthcare support and patient advocacy
- Mental health and wellness programs
- Behavioral health, health coaching, and human services
It also serves as an ideal option for students preparing for graduate study in psychology, health sciences, or social work.
Admissions Criteria
Candidates for admission to undergraduate level certificate programs must possess a high school diploma or a High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma from New York State (also known as TASC or GED) and demonstrate basic proficiency in reading and writing in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the University. At current, proficiency in reading and writing may be demonstrated by meeting any of the following criteria:
- SAT I verbal score of 480 or higher or critical reading score of 480 or higher
- ACT English score of 20 or higher
- New York State English Regents score of 75 or higher
- A grade of C or higher in a college level English course
Applicants are required to submit a personal statement.
Transfer of Credit Policy
A maximum of one course (up to 3 credits), deemed equivalent to Psychology 101: Introduction to Psychology, may be transferred for credit.
Application Deadlines
- Spring 2026 Priority Deadline: November 6, 2025
- Spring 2026 Regular Deadline: December 4, 2025
