Contemplative Psychology: Mindfulness and Compassion MA at Bangor University

Programme overview

A three-year, part-time master's taught fully online that builds practical experience and academic knowledge in contemplative psychology. It links mindfulness and compassion to mental health, wellbeing and everyday life through psychological theory, scientific research and the student's own meditation practice.

Duration: 3 years part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: part-time | Location: Bangor, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1: Foundations of Practice. Year 2: Research Skills. One optional module in year 1 or 2 (Buddhism and Contemplative Neuroscience or Essentials of Teaching). Year 3: MA thesis. Assessment is by academic and reflective essays, presentations and the thesis, with no traditional exams; an optional multi-day meditation retreat at Bangor is offered each year.

Career pathways

Supports careers in mental health, education, counselling, coaching, wellbeing services and research, and prepares students for further study such as a PhD. Bangor is an affiliated teacher training organisation of the British Association of Mindfulness-Based Approaches (BAMBA).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An undergraduate or postgraduate degree is normally required; applicants with relevant professional, practical or life experience are considered case by case. Applicants should have completed a teacher-led contemplative mindfulness-based course (6-8 weeks, or an intensive course) and have a regular meditation practice for at least six months before starting. A computer, strong internet connection and the IT skills to use them are needed. English language: minimum IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent). Applications are open all year, with a cut-off of early July for September entry.

GBP 10,008 for the whole programme (2026/27). Course fee for September 2026 entry, stated as comprising 4 x 40-credit modules and a 60-credit dissertation Source

Intake: September 2026

Duration: 3 years

Apply through the official page: https://www.bangor.ac.uk/study/apply

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