MA Advanced Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy at Manchester Metropolitan University

Programme overview

The MA Advanced Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy curriculum is mapped to the Scope of Practice and Education (SCoPEd) Framework developed by the Partnership of Counselling and Psychotherapy Bodies (PCPB), supporting graduates to develop the advanced knowledge, skills and competences associated with Column C practice (senior accreditation). This programme develops reflective, ethical, and culturally responsive practitioners. Integrating contemporary theory, research and practice, the programme equips you with the advanced knowledge, professional skills and critical awareness needed to understand human experience, build effective therapeutic relationships and work confidently with diverse individuals and communities.

What you will study

The programme combines academic and practice-based learning, exploring counselling and psychotherapy theories, therapeutic skills, relational processes, and contemporary perspectives on mental health and wellbeing. You’ll develop expertise in assessment, formulation, and intervention, while examining professional judgement, ethics, and evidence-based practice. Year 1 core: Theoretical Frameworks And Applied Therapeutic Skills 1, Therapeutic Process And Reflexive Practice, Practice Credits 1. Year 2 core: Practice Credits 2, Theoretical Frameworks And Applied Therapeutic Skills 2, Professional Judgement, Ethics, And Practice. Year 3 core: Assessment, Formulation, And Intervention, Advanced Relational Practice And Process Dynamics, Culture, Identity, And Social Justice In Therapeutic Practice, Practice Credits 3.

Career pathways

Graduates of this programme may pursue careers across a range of counselling, psychotherapy, mental health, health, education, social care, and community settings. Career pathways may include roles such as counsellor, psychotherapeutic counsellor, therapist within community or voluntary sector organisations, student counsellor in educational settings, wellbeing practitioner, mental health practitioner, or private practitioner, subject to relevant professional registration, accreditation, and employment requirements.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants would normally hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Psychology, Nursing, Social Work, or Occupational Therapy) with a minimum 2:2 classification. Essential : Applicants must have successfully completed a Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills, or equivalent study comprising of 90 hours of synchronous guided learning. Desirable : A minimum of six months’ relevant paid or voluntary experience in a helping (e.g. supporting, mentoring, advising), caring, educational, social care, health, mental health, community or related role where supporting the wellbeing, development, or needs of others forms a significant part of the role. Interview process : Shortlisted applicants who meet the entry requirements will be invited to an interview to assess their readiness and suitability for postgraduate professional counselling and psychotherapy training. The interview will consider applicants’ motivation, self-awareness, interpersonal effectiveness, and capacity for reflective practice. A DBS check will be required. Whilst students do not need to have this in place in order to apply, they will need to agree to secure a DBS to be signed off in a ‘Readiness to Practice’ assessment before commencing placement. Likewise, applicants must be committed to joining the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and maintaining student membership throughout their studies. Due to complex and specific Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) requirements, International student applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English Qualification.

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/course/ma-advanced-integrative-counselling-and-psychotherapy#how-to-apply

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