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The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course Consulting Psychology and Psychological Therapy Approaches under the number 1122221c. Which target group benefits from the Master's in Counselling Psychology and Psychological Therapy Approaches?
The Master's programme in Counselling Psychology and Psychological Therapy Approaches is aimed at professionals from educational, social pedagogical and social work fields who already hold a relevant Bachelor's degree and wish to further qualify in the field of psychological counselling. It is particularly intended for individuals who want to professionalise their work in counselling centres, social services, educational sectors or related areas. Those interested in a career in marriage and family counselling, educational and life counselling, health counselling or organisation-related counselling will also gain a solid practice-oriented qualification through this part-time distance learning programme.
What formal admission requirements apply?
For the 120 ECTS version of the Master's programme, you need to have completed a professionally relevant first degree (Bachelor, Diploma, Magister) – preferably in courses such as Social Work, Social Pedagogy, Childhood Education, Educational Sciences or Special Needs Education. Additionally, at least one year of professional experience in the relevant field is required. English language skills are expected, as some specialised literature is available in English. There is no numerus clausus (NC), and entry is possible at any time.
Own experience in social, counselling or educational contexts is an advantage. You should have a genuine interest in psychological issues, counselling situations and personal development. Important are communication skills, a high willingness to reflect, as well as the ability to study independently and in a structured way in distance learning. Empathy, resilience in contact and counselling situations, and openness to different psychological approaches will support your study success.
What content does the Master's programme in Counselling Psychology & Psychological Therapy Approaches convey?
In the Master's programme Counselling Psychology & Psychological Therapy Approaches you acquire comprehensive knowledge to professionally advise and support people in various life situations. The course provides you with a broad psychological foundation and focuses especially on the following core areas:
- Basic psychological competencies: Knowledge of general psychology, personality psychology as well as social psychology
- Clinical psychology and diagnostics: Fundamentals of mental disorders and diagnostic procedures in counselling
- Therapy and counselling approaches: Introduction to various psychotherapeutic schools, e.g. depth psychology, behavioural therapy, systemic therapy
- Special methods: Art- and body-oriented techniques, self-experience and relaxation methods
- Communication and conversation techniques: Counselling and coaching techniques, dealing with different client groups
- Research methods and academic work: Teaching of quantitative and qualitative methods to link theory and practice
- Law, ethics and quality management: Standards, ethical questions and quality assurance in counselling
- Intercultural communication, supervision and intervision: Dealing with diversity as well as reflecting on one’s own role in the counselling context
A central component is the practical application of what has been learned. Skills acquired include understanding individual problem situations, developing suitable counselling concepts and continuously reflecting on one’s own role as a counsellor.
How is the distance learning programme Counselling Psychology & Psychological Therapy Approaches organised?
The programme is designed as a part-time distance learning course with multimedia learning elements, offering you maximum flexibility. The standard period of study is 24 months (full-time) or 32 months (part-time); a free extension of up to 12 or 16 months is possible. You can start at any time.
- Study materials: Digital and printed learning materials, supplemented by webinars, videos, podcasts and study booklets (also as audio versions)
- Study organisation: Learning at your own pace, individual support by tutors and the AI learning companion KILEA
- Examinations: Monthly flexible exams online or on-site at examination centres nationwide
- Practical phases: Two compulsory compact seminars (each 4 days), one for competence development (including role plays, counselling simulations), another for reflection on counselling practice
- Practical application: Practical phase with real counselling situations and qualified feedback
- Credit transfer: Previous achievements from prior studies can be credited towards the programme
The learning concept promotes a sustainable development of your professional and personal counselling competence through the combination of distance learning-based self-study, digital learning formats and practical elements.
What career opportunities does the Master's in Counselling Psychology offer graduates?
With the Master's degree in Counselling Psychology & Psychological Therapy Approaches you qualify for diverse counselling roles in psychosocial, educational and health-related fields. You are entitled to the professional title Psychological Counsellor. Typical areas of application include:
- Marriage and family counselling
- Educational counselling
- Support counselling
- Career counselling, transition and outplacement counselling
- Health counselling
- Crisis intervention and counselling in mental health crises
- Drug and addiction counselling
- General life counselling
- Conflict counselling
- Organisational and business consultancy with a psychological focus
Important: The degree does not entitle you to use the professional titles “Psychologist” or “psychological psychotherapist”. Your degree primarily enables you to work responsibly with a scientific foundation in the fields of counselling, coaching as well as institutions within social and health services.
Where does the programme take place and how is the spatial organisation arranged?
The programme is conducted completely online as distance learning and is location-independent. The European Distance Learning University Hamburg provides you with all study materials and support via the Online Campus.
- Compact seminars: Two four-day seminars can be completed either on site in Hamburg or as an online event
- Examinations: Online or at one of ten examination centres across Germany
- Access: All functions, learning materials and communication channels are available digitally; mobile use is possible via the Campus app
Thanks to the digital study model, you are not tied to a specific place of residence or study and can ideally combine your studies with family, work and other commitments.
What costs should you expect for the Counselling Psychology & Psychological Therapy Approaches programme and which financing options are available?
The tuition fees for the Master's programme (120 ECTS) amount to a total of €13,024. Monthly costs are €407 (depending on the chosen model, from €328/month possible; discount promotions, e.g. savings of €1,444, are regularly offered).
- Flexible payment models: Monthly instalments possible, alternative financing plans from €209 per month
- Free extension: Up to 12 or 16 months without additional fees
- Credit for prior achievements: Previously completed academic achievements can be recognised and may reduce total costs
- Funding opportunities: Support through BAföG (for full-time study), scholarships, education loans, employer support programmes or tax deductibility of costs as further education
- Trial phase: You can test the programme free of charge for four weeks
For many students, individual saving potentials arise through crediting of prior achievements and flexible payment models. The university offers financing advice so that you can tailor your studies precisely to your situation.
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