Faculty Bios

Each year, we invite world-class researchers and practitioners from around the world to provide instruction for the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program. Together, faculty from the University of Pennsylvania and other preeminent leaders in positive psychology gather to offer students the very best education in the field.

Principal faculty members from the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania

Zellerbach Family Professor of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania; Founding Director, Positive Psychology Center

James O. Pawelski, PhD

Professor of Practice and Director of Education, Positive Psychology Center

Assistant Professor of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania

Research Associate, Positive Psychology Center, University of Pennsylvania

Claire Robertson-Kraft

Core Instructor and Faculty Co-Director of the Executive MPA Program, Fels Institute of Government; Founder and Director, ImpactED 

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, private practice

Visiting Faculty

Professor of Psychology, Yale University

Rosa Lee and Egbert Chang Professor

Associate Professor of Psychology, Swarthmore College; Codirector of the Penn Resiliency Project, University of Pennsylvania

The Saul P. Steinberg Professor of Management, Professor of Psychology

Professor of Psychology, University of Virginia

Dorwin Cartwright Professor of Social Theory and Social Action, Swarthmore College

Capstone projects

The capstone project is a culminating experience, allowing you to integrate and apply what you've learned during the program.

Claire Robertson-Kraft

Congratulations to Claire Robertson-Kraft!

MAPP applauds Dr. Robertson-Kraft for receiving the 2026 Liberal and Professional Studies Award for Distinguished Teaching in Professional Graduate Programs.

Photo of MAPP students on campus

Looking for financial assistance?

Learn about financial aid including MAPP’s fellowship and scholarship opportunities.