Counselling Studies
The University of EdinburghCounselling Studies MSc is a postgraduate degree at The University of Edinburgh, based in Edinburgh, taught full-time over 1 year.
About this course
The programme provides advanced academic study of counselling and psychotherapeutic practices and theories. It introduces students to non-directive, relational approaches, particularly within the psychodynamic and person-centred frameworks. Its aim is to connect theoretical learning with real-world issues and encourage critical reflection on counselling practice and theory in both professional and personal contexts.
This programme complements professional training in counselling by introducing key debates and professional issues in the field of counselling and psychotherapy to students from various backgrounds. It is firmly grounded in social science inquiry, addressing psychological conditions, social relations, and counselling practice with a focus on examining context and the complex interactions between the personal and the social. Please note that this programme may not be suitable for students seeking solution-focused, diagnostic, or behavioural approaches to psychological health.
The programme includes the professionally validated Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Studies, which offers skill development in active listening skills, three other substantive taught courses, and a dissertation within the field of counselling and psychotherapy.
It's important to note that this MSc programme is not a qualifying training programme and students are encouraged to align their career prospects with the professional legislation system of their home country.
Full professional training in counselling is available through advancing on to one of the following programmes:
* Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling
* Master of Counselling (Interpersonal Dialogue), a two-year full-time programme
* Master of Counselling, a four-year part-time programme
Study Options
This course is available in 3 study options:
Duration: 2 Years
Qualification: MSc
Location: Edinburgh
Duration: 1 Year
Qualification: MSc
Location: Edinburgh
Duration: 3 Years
Qualification: MSc
Location: Edinburgh
Career Prospects
Graduates from this course typically go into the following occupations. Click through for salaries, employment rates and other UK degrees that lead there:
Related Courses
Course Details
- Qualification
- MSc
- Study Mode
- Full-time
- Duration
- 1 Year
- Start Date
- 2025
- Academic Year
- 2025
- Campus / Location
- Edinburgh
- Scheme
- Postgraduate
- Subjects
- Medicine, Counselling, psychotherapy, and occupational therapy
2025-entry data — 2026 offers may differ