Master of Counselling
The Master of Counselling is validated professionally by COSCA at Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma levels. It is a flexible, student-centred training process with a strong emphasis on practice, including a counselling placement.
| Name | Master of Counselling |
| Start Date | September |
| Mode of Study | 4 years part-time |
| Programme Director | Sharan Collins / Elaine Goldie |
Please check the postgraduate Degree Finder to see the specific entry requirements, start date and application deadlines.
This programme aims to foster the development of critically reflective practitioners who are able to work in a variety of settings with a broad range of people. It is founded in dialogue between the person-centred approach and psychodynamic perspectives in counselling.
The programme consists of several taught courses, a supervised practice placement, and a dissertation. Students are required to complete 150 hours of supervised client work in a practice placement.
The Master of Counselling is a professional part-time training in counselling, and is a recognised qualification to practise as a counsellor.
Why choose this programme?
A distinctive feature of this degree is its focus on the student’s individual counselling practice with clients, which normally begins in year two. We have excellent links with a range of counselling agencies across Scotland and can support students to find a suitable practice placement within one of these agencies.
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. It also provides students with further transferable skills and knowledge that can be applied to a range of settings, including research skills, conceptual and analytical skills, and interpersonal and communication skills.
Yes, graduates of this programme, followed by post-qualification practice and supervision, are able to apply for individual accreditation as a counsellor or psychotherapist with a UK professional body. The programme is accredited by COSCA and will provide you with a COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills and a COSCA Diploma in Counselling.
Beyond the programme
The Master of Counselling offers significantly enhanced employment prospects for its graduates. Increasingly, employers are seeking Masters qualifications for management positions in counselling and psychotherapy. Many former students now hold senior positions in the counselling field and have been leading the development of counselling and psychotherapy provision throughout Scotland.
Graduates also gain employment as counsellors and psychotherapists working in the statutory, voluntary / non-government and private sectors, or can use their counselling training to enhance their career in a related profession such as health care, social work, nursing, or education.
Further Study Opportunities
Students who successfully complete the Master of Counselling can also consider further educational opportunities within the University.
Students can return to the University to attend continuing professional development (CPD) courses to support their ongoing professional development once they have qualified as counsellors/psychotherapists, or can apply to undertake an advanced research degree such as a PhD.
Find out more about our postgraduate Counselling and Psychotherapy options