The MSc Psychological Therapy in Primary Care (University of Dundee) offers specialist training in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for adults in NHS primary-care settings. It suits psychology graduates or practitioners funded by NHS Education for Scotland who want to become Clinical Associates in Applied Psychology.
Curriculum Structure:
Over the one-year programme, students complete Principles & Methods of Psychological Therapy, where they learn to assess, formulate, and treat common mental health problems using CBT, and Common Mental Disorders in Primary Care, studying the nature and prevalence of depression and anxiety. They also take Assessment, Diagnosis & Formulation (GM51056) to develop case formulation skills based on diagnostic systems and risk assessment, and Professional & Ethical Issues, exploring therapy ethics, confidentiality, and professional guidelines. The year concludes with Research, Evaluation & Outcome and a 60-credit Dissertation (GM53011), which involves conducting a service-based project, systematic review, or audit within primary care. ([turn0search1][turn0search0])
Focus areas: “CBT; common mental health disorders; clinical assessment; professional ethics; research in therapy”
Learning outcomes: “Diagnose and formulate therapy cases, deliver CBT in primary care, adhere to professional standards, and complete a dissertation project.”
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and BABCP (Level 1). ([turn0search2][turn0search14])
Reputation: The programme is delivered in collaboration with the NHS and supported by NHS Education for Scotland, reflecting strong professional relevance.
Students develop practical research skills through hands-on projects using the School of Psychology's specialist facilities. They have access to the Devolved Brains Lab and other developmental research resources. The programme's experiential components include:
Research Project: A dissertation in developmental psychology
Laboratory Access: Use of developmental psychology research facilities
Software: Training in statistical analysis software
Technical Skills: Development of developmental research methodologies
Applied Focus: Practical training in child development assessment methods
Graduates of the MSc Psychological Therapy in Primary Care at the University of Dundee acquire clinical competences in delivering evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) within NHS primary care settings. Typical job roles include Clinical Associate in Applied Psychology (CAAP), Primary Mental Health Worker, Psychological Therapist, and NHS Mental Health Practitioner.
Key points:
The course is delivered jointly with the University of Stirling and supported by NHS Education for Scotland, offering clinical placements and supervised practice within NHS Health Boards.
Graduates benefit from NHS-funded tuition fees and gain employment primarily within NHS Scotland, with growing opportunities in the wider UK.
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Level 1 accredited by the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy (BABCP), enhancing professional recognition and mobility.
Graduates meet clinical performance targets and demonstrate readiness for applied psychological therapy roles within primary care.
Employment outcomes include stable NHS positions and enhanced clinical practice skills, contributing to mental health service provision.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue BABCP-accredited Stage 2 training or clinical psychology doctoral programs to advance their therapeutic expertise and career development.



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