The Colleges

Saybrook University represents a distinctive cooperative model, grounded in the humanistic perspective, in the service of graduate education. This model honors the strength and independence of each of the Saybrook University Colleges in fulfillment of individual College and shared University goals in partnership with each other and with other like-minded institutions.

Graduate College of Psychology and Humanistic Studies

The Graduate College of Psychology and Humanistic Studies (known for more than three decades as Saybrook Graduate School and Research Center) carries forward the tradition of the Humanistic Psychology Institute founded through the leadership of Eleanor Criswell in 1971. Its creation was inspired by the legendary meeting at Old Saybrook, Connecticut in 1964 when the humanistic psychology movement was articulated as an alternative to mainstream psychology. Leading figures at the conference, including Rollo May, James Bugenthal, and Clark Moustakas also served as faculty in the early years. Ultimately the Institute changed its name to Saybrook Graduate School to reflect the importance of this conference in the history of humanistic thought.

Today, the College of Psychology and Humanistic Studies, and Saybrook University remain committed to the principles of the humanistic tradition and firm in the belief that these principles are vital and relevant for graduate education that seeks to inspire transformative change in our world.

Graduate College of Mind-Body Medicine

The Graduate College of Mind-Body Medicine emerged from Saybrook’s humanistic roots, combined with recognition of the growing demand from consumers and the professionals who serve them for a new integrative medicine. Appreciation of that need and Saybrook’s own history in integrative health inspired affiliation with The Center for Mind-Body Medicine and appointment of James S. Gordon, MD as its Dean. Reviving the spirit and transforming the practice of medicine, the College emphasizes an approach that makes self-care central to all healthcare.

LIOS Graduate College (Leadership Institute of Seattle)

LIOS Graduate College emerged from a series of discussions between Saybrook Graduate School and the Leadership Institute of Seattle, prompted by LIOS’ search for a compatible higher education institution with whom to join. Since its founding in 1969, Leadership Institute of Seattle has shaped its distinctive curriculum around the most effective and ethical expressions of leadership. In both its degree programs and professional trainings, LIOS has continually tested and improved these ideas and ideals in the demanding crucible of experiential education. The mission of LIOS is to promote healthy, just and sustainable human systems by educating people to live and lead with integrity. LIOS was inspired to join with Saybrook as a founding partner in the new university.