A Feasibility Study of the Master of Science Program in Mental Health : Research and Development of the Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) Based on the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) Approach

This research and development aimed to establish Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) aligned with the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) framework through the analysis of four stakeholder groups in a four-phase sequential design: (1) High Power, Low Impact (HPLI), examined through document analysis of national and institutional policy guidelines; (2) High Power, High Impact (HPHI), explored through in-depth interviews with administrators, faculty, and experts, analyzed thematically (four key informants per group); (3) Low Power, High Impact (LPHI), involving 13 prospective employers through questionnaires, analyzed using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation; and (4) Low Power, Low Impact (LPLI), engaging 92 practitioners and 49 members of the general public using similar survey methods. The findings revealed six domains of PLOs, namely: PLO1—applying advanced mental health knowledge and policy recommendations; PLO2—assessing mental health with ethical responsibility; PLO3—developing strategies for prevention and promotion; PLO4—conducting and disseminating research; PLO5—communicating positively with respect for diversity; and PLO6—demonstrating empathy, social responsibility, and lifelong learning. This study provides empirical support for stakeholder-aligned PLOs that meet graduate standards, offering a foundation for a comprehensive curriculum to produce graduates with market-relevant competencies.