MSc Psychological Therapies

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Psychological Therapies program at The University of Edinburgh are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities in the field of mental health and psychological therapies. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapeutic approaches and practical experience gained through clinical placements, graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including healthcare institutions, community mental health services, private practices, research organizations, and educational institutions.  

1. Clinical Psychologist: Graduates may pursue careers as clinical psychologists, providing assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment for individuals with mental health disorders. They may work in NHS settings, private practices, or community mental health teams, delivering interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or systemic therapy.

2. Counselor/Psychotherapist: Graduates may work as counselors or psychotherapists, offering therapeutic support and counseling to individuals experiencing a range of emotional and psychological difficulties. They may specialize in specific therapeutic approaches, such as person-centered therapy, gestalt therapy, or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and work in settings such as counseling centers, charities, or employee assistance programs.

3. Clinical Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers in clinical research, conducting studies to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological interventions and contributing to the development of evidence-based practice. They may work in academic institutions, research centers, or healthcare organizations, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to design and implement research projects in the field of mental health.

4. Healthcare Manager/Administrator: Graduates may work in managerial or administrative roles within healthcare organizations, overseeing the delivery of psychological services, managing clinical teams, and developing policies and procedures to ensure quality care. They may work in hospitals, mental health trusts, or community health agencies, applying their knowledge of psychological therapies to enhance service provision and patient outcomes.

5. Educator/Trainer: Graduates may pursue careers as educators or trainers, teaching courses or workshops on psychological therapies, counseling skills, and mental health awareness. They may work in universities, colleges, or training organizations, providing professional development opportunities for therapists, counselors, and healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in psychological interventions.

6. Clinical Supervisor/Consultant: Graduates may work as clinical supervisors or consultants, providing supervision and consultation to junior therapists, trainees, or mental health practitioners. They may offer clinical supervision in private practice, supervision groups, or training programs, supporting therapists in their professional development and adherence to ethical standards.

7. Mental Health Advocate/Policy Advisor: Graduates may work as advocates or policy advisors, advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with mental health difficulties and influencing mental health policy and practice at local, national, or international levels. They may work for advocacy organizations, government agencies, or non-profit groups, promoting awareness, stigma reduction, and access to mental health services.

8. Private Practice/Entrepreneur: Graduates may establish their own private practice, offering counseling, psychotherapy, or coaching services to clients seeking support for mental health concerns. They may specialize in specific client populations or therapeutic modalities, building their reputation and client base through word-of-mouth referrals, marketing efforts, and professional networking.

9. Academic Researcher/Lecturer: Graduates may pursue careers in academia, conducting research and teaching courses in psychology, counseling, or psychotherapy. They may work in universities, research institutes, or academic departments, publishing research papers, supervising student dissertations, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of psychological therapies.

10. Global Health Practitioner: Graduates may work as global health practitioners, applying their expertise in psychological therapies to address mental health challenges in diverse cultural and global contexts. They may work for international organizations, NGOs, or humanitarian agencies, designing and implementing mental health programs, capacity-building initiatives, and trauma-informed interventions in communities affected by conflict, disaster, or displacement.