CU Anschutz: Advancing Colorado’s Mental Health Workforce
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is at the forefront of developing a robust, diverse and highly skilled mental health workforce to meet the growing needs of communities across Colorado and beyond. Through innovative academic programs, clinical training and interdisciplinary collaboration, CU Anschutz is preparing professionals who are equipped to address mental health, substance use and wellbeing at individual and population levels.
A National Leader in Population Mental Health
CU Anschutz is home to one of the nation’s first accredited Master of Public Health (MPH) programs in Population Mental Health & Wellbeing. Offered online and on campus, this program provides students with a strong foundation in public health principles, while specializing in mental health, substance use and wellness. Students gain access to faculty experts in areas such as autism spectrum disorders, cannabis use and suicide prevention, and join a community committed to reducing the burden of mental health challenges on individuals, families and communities.
Training Mental Health Nurse Practitioners
The CU College of Nursing offers Nurse Practitioner programs focused on mental health, preparing advanced practice nurses to assess, diagnose and treat patients of all ages with mental health concerns. These professionals play a critical role in expanding access to care, particularly in underserved and rural areas, and are trained to provide a holistic approach to care, using a combination of medication, therapy and health promotion techniques to meet patients where they are.
Expanding Rural Access Through the School of Medicine
The University of Colorado School of Medicine’s Rural Program builds on the success of its original Rural Track, which was founded in 2005 as an elective for medical students interested in rural practice. Under the leadership of Dr. Mark Deutchman, the program aims to increase the number of CU medical school graduates who enter and remain in practice in rural Colorado.
Students in the Rural Program gain a robust clinical experience designed to prepare them for the unique challenges and rewards of rural medicine. From the plains to the mountains, Colorado offers diverse opportunities for students to live, train and serve. Participants benefit from a strong support network of like-minded peers and faculty, and graduate with the skills and confidence needed to provide high-quality care in underserved communities—where their expertise is truly needed and deeply appreciated.
Interdisciplinary Training Across PA, PT, and MD Programs
The University of Colorado School of Medicine integrates mental health training across its Physician Assistant (PA), Physical Therapy (PT) and Medical Doctor (MD) programs. These future providers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize and address mental health concerns as part of holistic patient care, strengthening the behavioral health capacity of the broader healthcare workforce.
Department of Psychiatry: A Hub for Workforce Development
The Department of Psychiatry at CU Anschutz offers a wide range of workforce development initiatives, including:
- PURPLE Therapist Training Program
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner training
- Master’s-level internships and practicums in behavioral health
- Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Licensed Clinical Social Work Fellowship Program
- Residency and fellowship programs
- Externships for graduate students
These programs provide rigorous clinical training and mentorship, preparing professionals to deliver specialized care in high-demand areas such as child and adolescent psychiatry, trauma and substance use.
The Role of Philanthropy
Donor support is essential to expanding these workforce development efforts. Philanthropic investment helps CU Anschutz:
- Recruit and retain students from underrepresented backgrounds
- Provide scholarships and financial support for tuition, fees and living expenses
- Fund clinical training opportunities in underserved communities
- Support faculty innovation and research in mental health education
- Expand access to care through community-based partnerships and outreach
By investing in CU Anschutz’s mental health workforce initiatives, donors play a vital role in shaping a future where mental health care is accessible, equitable and effective for all.