MSc Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at Queen Margaret University

Programme overview

This part-time MSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, accredited by the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP), provides the knowledge, skills and clinical training to become a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist and seek BABCP accreditation. It is delivered with NHS Lothian and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, with 50/50 on-campus and online teaching.

Faculty: School of Health Sciences | Department: Nursing | Duration: Part time: PgCert 1 year, PgDip 2 years, plus 18-24 months for the MSc | Intake: January 2028 | Study mode: part-time | Location: Musselburgh (Edinburgh), Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

PgCert: Principles of Cognitive Therapy, Application of CBT, CBT for Anxiety and Depression (20 credits each). PgDip adds Research Skills in CBT, Advanced CBT for Anxiety Disorders and Major Depression and Introduction to Complex Adaptation of CBT. MSc adds a 60-credit practice-based research project.

Career pathways

Prepares practitioners for roles as cognitive behavioural psychotherapists, for which there is growing demand.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Entry to the Certificate requires a BABCP Core Profession in mental health, or demonstrated mental health training/experience via the BABCP Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes (KSA) route, plus at least 12 months of clinical experience in a core profession or non-core equivalent. Those without individual clinical work are advised to gain a year of experience first. NHS Scotland employees should contact their health board Psychological Therapies Training Coordinator before applying. Interview in Edinburgh. Application deadline 31 October 2027. International students: currently only available to professionals working in the UK.

Intake: January 2028

Duration: Part time: PgCert 1 year, PgDip 2 years, plus 18-24 months for the MSc

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