Entry requirementsEntry Requirements Candidates should possess one of: * a first degree or equivalent in any subject and accreditation as a counsellor or psychotherapist; * or a first degree or equivalent and a qualification in counselling and psychotherapy to Diploma level and two years' post-qualifying practice (which may be waived for those who have undertaken substantial practice prior to securing professional qualifications); * or accreditation as a counsellor or psychotherapist and evidence of potential to study at postgraduate level; * or, exceptionally, candidates who hold a qualification in counselling or psychotherapy to Diploma level, and who do not hold a first degree, and who are not yet accredited practitioners, but who meet the criteria for professional accreditation, may be considered for admission.
Course descriptionThe MSc in Counselling Studies (Advanced Practice) offers advanced academic and practice-based study of counselling for experienced practitioners seeking to enhance their therapeutic practice and qualifications.
Distinctive features of this degree include:
* the opportunity to study at advanced level with tutors grounded in the person-centred approach and psychodynamic perspectives;
* integration of advanced professional practice to theory and research;
* close links with social-science research concerned with counselling and society;
* the opportunity to take the professionally validated Counselling Supervision course;
* and the dissertation research focus on the student's individual counselling practice with clients.
Learning Outcomes
Through this degree, counsellors and therapists demonstrate an advanced capacity to reflect on practice, to apply both up-to-date research and theoretical innovations to therapeutic practice, to undertake complex and well-grounded qualitative research and to analyse the social and cultural context of counselling in modern society.
How You Will Be Taught
Teaching and learning methods include lectures, theory seminars, case discussion, discussion groups and independent study. Assessment is through essays and the dissertation. Individual courses may have other learning and assessment methods such as presentations, self and peer assessment and portfolio work. The optional counselling supervision course involves a supervision practice placement and assessment of the student's practice as a supervisor. The programme provides a high level of student-tutor contact and close supervision of both counselling practice and research, in line with professional and academic requirements
