CBT (Advanced Level Practice) (PGCert)

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in one of the following subjects: 

• psychology 
• medicine 
• social work 
• occupational therapy 
• nursing 
• or an equivalent professional qualification 

If you have a nursing qualification that is not a degree, it must be equivalent to an undergraduate PG diploma.  

You must also have prior training, experience or knowledge in: 

• CBT  
• interpersonal skills 
• mental health problems 
• interviewing 
• general assessment  
• understanding of ethical and professional issues  

We usually receive applications from qualified mental health professionals (for example, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, and Mental Health Nurses).  

If you have a different professional background, you may be considered on an individual basis, by submitting a portfolio of evidence linked to the BABCP 'Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes' criteria. 

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 7.0 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:

We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.

The Postgraduate Certificate in CBT (Advanced Level Practice) is usually completed over 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time. The exact timing depends on the modules you choose to study. 

The module structure of this course allows you to specialise in the areas you’re most interested in and that meets the needs of your clinical practice.    This is a flexible programme with most students working in clinical settings and attending the University at least one day a week. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

You’ll learn through lectures, interactive workshops (role-play and demonstrations) and small group discussions and projects. 

Throughout your studies, you’ll need to independently read academic texts, journal articles and other select sources. This will consolidate your learning and help you to understand some topics better. 

You’ll develop a clear understanding of cognitive behavioural concepts, models and methods. You’ll also gain skills in collaborative assessment, formulation and treatment, and develop sound clinical decision making.

Assessment

We’ll assess your academic and clinical skills through: 

• case reports 
• essays 
• therapy recordings 

Academic Support

We’ll assign you a personal tutor, and you’ll have access to a senior tutor. 

Many of our students already work in a mental health service. This course will expand your knowledge in CBT practices. 

This PGCert in CBT provides a pathway towards BABCP accreditation. If you continue your training towards full accreditation you can start a professional career in CBT as a cognitive behavioural therapy practitioner or therapist. 

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £3,450.
• International students pay £6,900.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries  may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

You can apply directly through our online form by using the apply button on this page.

Application deadlines

Single module (CPD) applications

To apply for a single module (CPD), you'll need to fill in a physical application form that you can download from our continuing professional development pages.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000