MSc Counselling and Positive Psychology

Program Overview

The MSc Counselling and Positive Psychology program at the University of Greater Manchester provides a unique and integrated approach to understanding and promoting mental health and well-being. It aims to develop graduates who are skilled in both providing therapeutic support and fostering positive psychological functioning. The program typically covers a range of topics, including core counselling theories (e.g., psychodynamic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral), positive psychology principles (e.g., happiness, flow, mindfulness), research methods in counselling and positive psychology, ethical and professional issues, and the application of these approaches in diverse contexts. The curriculum often incorporates a blend of lectures, seminars, experiential learning, and supervised practice to facilitate a comprehensive and applied understanding of the subject matter.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Counselling and Positive Psychology program is carefully structured to provide a strong theoretical foundation in both counselling and positive psychology, alongside the development of practical skills. Core modules generally cover areas such as counselling theories and practice, principles of positive psychology, research methods in psychology, ethical and professional practice in counselling and positive psychology, human development across the lifespan, and psychological assessment. Students may also have opportunities to specialize through elective modules in areas such as specific counselling modalities or advanced topics in positive psychology interventions. A significant component of the program is often a dissertation or research project, allowing students to explore a specific area of interest in depth and develop their research and analytical abilities. Supervised practice or experiential learning is also typically integrated to facilitate the development of counselling skills.

Research Focus: The MSc Counselling and Positive Psychology program is delivered by faculty who are actively engaged in research within the fields of counselling, psychotherapy, and positive psychology. This ensures that the curriculum is informed by current research findings and evidence-based practices. The program emphasizes the importance of research in understanding mental health and well-being and in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Students are trained in relevant research methodologies and are encouraged to engage with research throughout the program, culminating in their dissertation or research project. Research areas within the program may include the effectiveness of different counselling approaches, the impact of positive psychology interventions on well-being, the role of resilience in mental health, and the application of these principles in specific populations or settings.

Industry Engagement: The University of Greater Manchester recognizes the importance of practical experience and strong links with the counselling and well-being sectors. The MSc program often incorporates significant industry engagement opportunities, such as guest lectures from practicing counsellors and positive psychology practitioners, workshops led by professionals in the field, and supervised practical placements in relevant organizations. These placements provide students with valuable hands-on experience, allowing them to apply their theoretical learning in real-world settings and develop professional networks. The program aims to equip graduates with the practical skills and understanding of professional practice necessary for successful careers in these sectors.

Global Perspective: The MSc Counselling and Positive Psychology program may incorporate a global perspective by examining different cultural approaches to mental health and well-being, exploring the impact of globalization on psychological well-being, and considering issues of cultural competence in counselling practice. The curriculum may include case studies from different countries and encourage students to think critically about the transferability of models and practices across diverse cultural contexts. The diverse student body, including international students, can further enrich the learning environment by bringing different perspectives on mental health and well-being from around the world. The program aims to prepare graduates to work ethically and effectively with diverse populations in an increasingly interconnected world.