Master of Science - Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy

The MSc in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy at Derby is accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), ensuring that the programme is relevant and recognised across the profession. The course builds on theoretical psychotherapeutic understanding to develop reflective practitioners, enhancing clinical skills and deepening personal insight. It provides an intellectually creative and stimulating environment for the development of psychotherapeutic theory and skills, alongside transferable research skills that encourage a self-critical and reflective approach to study.

This MSc provides an innovative approach to psychotherapeutic practice, enabling students to learn about three distinct approaches: person-centered therapy, attachment theory, and cognitive behavioural psychotherapy. A trans-theoretical model provides a framework to integrate these theories, acknowledging the complexities of human problems in a meaningful way. Students are encouraged to explore the theoretical, social, cultural, and ideological contexts in which clients perceive and manage problems. The course also develops the ability to identify and use appropriate sources of supervision within counselling practice, while analysing major trends and orientations in integrative therapeutic work.

Clinical supervised practice forms an essential element of the programme. Students are expected to engage in supervised practice within their workplace or placement, applying enhanced counselling and psychotherapy knowledge in real-world contexts. The hours of clinical practice vary across academic years. Teaching methods are varied and include debates, discussions, experiential exercises, problem-solving, lectures, and tutorials. Assessment methods also vary, ranging from written assignments to practical evaluations and a final dissertation at the master’s stage. Students receive guidance and support from personal tutors throughout their studies.

The curriculum is closely aligned with the health and social care sector, ensuring content is current and relevant. It is responsive to national developments, including government policy changes. In accordance with University Quality Assessment Regulations, an external examiner reviews all moderated work annually to safeguard academic standards. The external examiner is appropriately qualified and independent from the course or staff.

Before commencing agency placements, students must complete a recorded counselling session with an unknown client (actor) and critically assess the interaction, demonstrating depth of knowledge and understanding of counselling skills and theories. This assessment includes a 2,500-word case study analysing the client’s presenting issues in relation to learned theories and skills, supported by a 4,000-word written piece focusing on theoretical understanding in relation to practice. Students must pass these assessments and have clinical supervision, indemnity insurance, and BACP membership in place prior to starting placements. Placement hours may be subject to change.

All agencies hosting students are required to agree to a three-way contract, enabling communication among all parties if concerns arise regarding practice. Programme and module leaders clearly explain all assessment requirements and learning outcomes to ensure consistency across the student cohort. One-to-one support is available where necessary to ensure complete understanding of module outcomes and expectations.