Counselling, Psychotherapy and Applied Social Sciences

PhD Counselling Studies

The PhD/MPhil in Counselling Studies programme is an advanced research degree enabling students to conduct in-depth independent research on a topic of their choice, thereby contributing to the knowledge and evidence base for counselling and psychotherapy.

When to apply 

Applications for 2023/24 entry are now closed. Applications for 2024/25 entry will re-open on 1st October 2023.

Start date

September and January. 

Length of study Three years full-time, six years part-time
Programme director Fiona Murray (Fiona.A.Murray@ed.ac.uk) 

Why Study this Programme

Students who successfully complete the MPhil / PhD will have a number of important skills and capabilities.

Structure

PhD study involves substantial independent research supported by an academic supervisor or supervisors.

Student Research and Potential Supervision

Counselling, Psychotherapy and Applied Social Sciences is a small subject area, which specialises in qualitative, reflexive and critical research approaches.

Career prospects

A PhD from the University of Edinburgh enhances the career prospects of professionally qualified counsellors, psychotherapists and practitioners using counselling skills in related fields, such as health care, social work or education.

Entry Requirements

Entrance requirements for the PhD programme in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

How to apply

We operate a gathered field approach for PhD applications. Find out how this works.

Related links

Tuition Fees information

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

PhD by Distance