Counselling Studies MSc
The University of Edinburgh
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( 4.2)

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Different course options
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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

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Location

Main Campus

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-26

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Duration

1 Year

Course info

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

Main Campus

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-26

Duration

1 Year

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Psychology
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Location

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Domestic
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England
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Wales
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Course info

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 ...Read more

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. We recommend the following programmes if the student wishes to advance to full professional training in counselling upon the completion of the MSc. Students will need to meet specific entry requirements and apply separately: Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Master of Counselling (Interpersonal Dialogue), a two-year full-time programme Master of Counselling, a four-year part-time programme Professional Doctorate in Psychotherapy and Counselling, 4 years full-time, 7 years part-time

Key stats

  IDP Connect
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2026
17th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2026
18th

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, or a UK 2:2 honours degree with a strong personal statement, relevant experience and/or references confirming your aptitude to study at postgraduate level.

You should demonstrate a high level of motivation through your personal statement, indicating why you wish to study counselling and demonstrating an understanding of counselling and the capacity to reflect on personal aptitude for work in this field.

We may also consider your application if you have professional qualifications equivalent to an honours degree; please contact us to check before you apply.

Students who have successfully completed a counselling qualification elsewhere which is equivalent to our Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Studies can apply for Entry with Advanced Standing to allow them to complete the MSc in Counselling Studies without having to undertake the Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Studies.

Your existing qualification must carry 60 academic credits at Postgraduate level and should have covered similar content in order to be eligible.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£13,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

Standard single room - 9950 per year

£13,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from England

Standard single room - 9950 per year

£13,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Wales

Standard single room - 9950 per year

£13,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Northern Ireland

Standard single room - 9950 per year

£30,500 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

Standard single room - 9950 per year

£30,500 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

Standard single room - 9950 per year

IDP Connect

Uni info

The University of Edinburgh
Old College, South Bridge Edinburgh EH8 9YL United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Edinburgh Waverley  0.2 miles away
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