Dual Degree Program
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN
Counseling Psychology
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN Sport and Performance Psychology
California Baptist University College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
“At the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, we believe every student is called to a purpose greater than themselves. Our programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills and Christ-centered perspective needed to serve your community and make a lasting impact in the world. We invite you to join us on a transformative journey — one that prepares you not just for a career, but for a life of meaningful service and leadership.”
Brian Distelberg, PhD Dean, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Program Distinctives
Receive Dual Licensure
The dual master’s program prepares students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) and, when adding the optional coursework, as Professional Clinical Counselors (PCC) and for certification as mental performance consultants through the Association of Applied Sport Psychology (CMPC-AASP). 01
Gain a Biblical Foundation
The dual MSCP and MSSPP program is the only known Christian program that combines counseling psychology and sport and performance psychology from a biblically rooted perspective.
Learn From Experts
Benefit from faculty who bring real-world and clinical expertise into the classroom. Students are taught by qualified scholar-practitioners, including several licensed clinicians, Certified Mental Performance Consultants (CMPC) and registered AASP mentors.
Program Details at a Glance
Program Length
87–93 units
3 years, full time
Program Cost*
$76,505–$82,632
$365 per semester general fee
Program Start Term
Fall (September)
Class Format
On campus
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
**$839 per unit for first two years (MSCP portion) and then $757 per unit for the third year (MSSPP portion). Additional fees apply.
Be the Difference: One Culture, One Community, One Person at a Time
About California Baptist University
California Baptist University is a dynamic institution that combines academic rigor, innovation, faith and service to empower students to become leaders with a profound impact on the world. With its mission to produce graduates who are academically prepared, biblically rooted, globally minded and equipped to serve, CBU continues to shape the next generation of compassionate, competent and socially responsible leaders.
Our Values
Academically Prepared
At CBU, innovation permeates every aspect of the educational journey. With a forward-thinking mindset, the university leverages emerging technologies, interdisciplinary collaborations and hands-on learning experiences to empower students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Whether through state-of-the-art laboratories, immersive simulations or collaborative research projects, CBU provides an environment where students are encouraged to explore, experiment and challenge the status quo.
Biblically Rooted
CBU places a profound emphasis on spiritual growth and character development. Rooted in the Christian faith, the university fosters a community where individuals from diverse backgrounds can explore their beliefs, engage in meaningful discussions and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them. Guided by a commitment to integrity, compassion and service, CBU instills in its students a strong moral compass, preparing them to become competent professionals and compassionate leaders who positively impact society.
Globally Minded
Recognizing the interconnectedness of today’s world, CBU embraces a global perspective and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global marketplace. The university offers a variety of study abroad programs, international internships and cross-cultural experiences that broaden students’ horizons, deepen their cultural competence and equip them with the skills necessary to excel in a global context.
Equipped to Serve
A cornerstone of CBU’s mission is the integration of faith and service. Through partnerships with local organizations and community initiatives, CBU students actively engage in outreach programs, volunteering their time and talents to address pressing social issues. From assisting underserved populations to promoting environmental sustainability, CBU cultivates a sense of social responsibility, empowering its graduates to make a tangible difference in their communities.
Faculty Spotlight
Kristin Mauldin, PhD Program Director, Sport and Performance Psychology
My journey to sport and performance psychology was truly an integration of academic and personal interests. I grew up with a disease that caused me to have chronic pain, and I used exercise as a way to help keep it at bay. Once in graduate school, I began running to help deal with stress. I started with slow, short runs and worked my way up to longer distances, participating in several full marathons by the time I had my first full-time faculty position.
While my academic work originally focused on learning and memory, I started to think about exercise and sport within the framework of these and other psychological concepts. I am driven by the desire to help others push past mental barriers in order to exceed their own self-conceived limits. Being able to oversee a program that promotes this both through research and application is hugely fulfilling!
Degree Requirements
Admissions Requirements
Application for admission with a $45 application fee.
Official transcript from an accredited college or university reflecting the completion of a baccalaureate degree.
Minimum 2.75 GPA cumulative or last 60/90 unit GPA. Additional opportunities may be available for a student to overcome an unsatisfactory GPA.
Written statement of purpose and in-person/virtual program interview (student’s choice). Written statement (500-word maximum) and interview will address:
• What are your educational goals?
• How will this program help meet those goals?
• What makes you a good fit for CBU?
Additional requirements may be requested.
Prerequisites*
*Must be completed with a “C” or better.
How to Apply
Submit a graduate application at calbaptist.edu/gradapp.
Send official college or university transcripts.
Provide any supplemental documents required.
Application Deadline Fall Priority Standard May 15 August 1
Ready to take the next step? Follow this QR code to start your application!
Graduate Admissions
8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
951.343.4249 calbaptist.edu
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
951.343.4487 calbaptist.edu/cbss
