MSc Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Salford

Program Overview

The MSc Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy at the University of Salford offers advanced training in CBT theory, assessment, formulation, intervention, and evaluation of practice, from common mental health issues to complex conditions. It is suited for experienced therapists or mental-health professionals who wish to deepen their therapeutic practice or work toward professional accreditation with BABCP. 

Curriculum structure:
Over the course, students learn to apply CBT with a wide range of clients: in Anxiety Disorders & Addictive Behaviour they explore treatment of OCD, PTSD, addiction, and more, while in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Complex Cases they tackle personality disorder, psychosis, and other layered presentations. Modules like Frontiers of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy and Compassion-Focused Therapy allow you to engage with innovative, evidence-informed techniques. Students also complete a Dissertation, carrying out independent research into a CBT-relevant question that aligns with their clinical interest or professional context. 

Focus areas:
“evidence-based CBT; complex mental health presentations; compassion-focused therapy; clinical research; advanced formulation”

Learning outcomes:
Students will deepen their conceptual grasp of CBT frameworks, develop practical expertise in assessment and treatment of complex issues, evaluate their practice, and produce publishable-quality research through their dissertation.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This MSc is aligned with BABCP Level 1 training standards; while it meets required teaching hours, students must complete additional supervised hours after graduation to achieve full practitioner accreditation.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Salford’s School of Health & Society is well respected for psychotherapy training, and graduates often move into clinical, NHS, and private practice roles or proceed to doctoral-level research. 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical therapeutic skills through clinical skills training and supervised practice using the university's specialist therapy facilities. They undertake supervised clinical work and skills development in dedicated therapy settings. The programme's experiential components include:

  • Clinical Skills Training: Supervised development of CBT assessment and intervention techniques

  • Therapy Practice Rooms: Access to dedicated clinical skills facilities

  • Supervised Practice: Clinical work under professional supervision

  • Case Formulation: Development of evidence-based treatment planning skills

  • Professional Accreditation: Preparation for BABCP accreditation as CBT practitioners

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Salford’s MSc Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy develop advanced skills to work in roles such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, High-Intensity Therapist, Mental Health Practitioner, and Clinical Researcher:

  • The university provides career support through supervision training, professional networking, and access to the annual CBT symposium connecting clinicians and academics.

  • Employment rates are strong, with entry-level salaries typically ranging between £28,000 and £40,000.

  • Partnerships with NHS trusts, mental health services, and voluntary organisations provide placement opportunities and clinical experience.

  • The program is accredited by the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) at Level 1, supporting progression to full accreditation with clinical hours and supervision.

  • Graduates gain expertise in assessment, formulation, intervention, and evaluation of CBT with diverse client groups, including those with complex needs.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates often pursue clinical supervision qualifications, doctoral clinical psychology training, or PhD research.

Program Key Stats

£15750 (Annual cost)
Rolling


No
No

Eligibility Criteria

2.7
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.0
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Educational Psychologist
  • Educational Researcher
  • School Psychologist
  • College Counselor
  • College Professor

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