North West University
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
The Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology in Psychology is offered by North West University.
Program Length: 1 YEAR.
Subjects: 6.
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology offered by the North West University at the Faculty of Health Sciences
Outcomes of the qualification
Students of the Masters programme in Counselling Psychology should demonstrate the following:
a) specialist knowledge of the field of Counselling Psychology and the ability to engage with and critique current research or practice in this field;
b) the ability to analyse, evaluate and then choose appropriate enquiry methods and processes for the study of Counselling Psychology;
c) critical knowledge and understanding of the ethical and legal considerations applicable to research and the consequences of interventions on individual, group and organisational level;
d) design and application of appropriate and creative methods to research practical and theoretical problems in the field of Counselling Psychology; - an ability to use appropriate counselling skills to address complex and challenging problems in the field of Counselling Psychology;
e) interpretation of psychological dynamics and pathology required for specialised screening of individuals, groups and organisations;
f) critical knowledge and true understanding of hierarchical relations and networks (equivalent professional peers within the primary health care system) within the relevant system and be able to use these to the advantage of individuals, groups and organisations;
g) an ability to do supervised research and to write a mini-dissertation in the field of study and to develop and sustain independent learning, academic and professional development;
h) the practice of acceptable social sensitivity in their relationship with others and work effectively in a team by implementing the relevant theory and reflect on the implementation thereof;
i) utilization of appropriate technology (computer, e-mail, fax, psychometric tests) effectively in the Counselling Psychology environment (technological and environmental literacy);
j) exploration of different effective learning strategies to acquire the different capabilities of a practitioner in the field of Counselling Psychology; and k) promotion of responsible citizenship through their approach towards the holistic application of Counselling Psychology related skills.
l) The student will comply with the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to register for an internship in Clinical Psychology and will be equipped with specialised and advanced knowledge to provide curative services, diagnose and prevent pathology, and promote bio-psychosocial health as well as primary, secondary and tertiary welfare in individuals, families, organisations and communities; particularly with those people facing serious life challenges and relative serious forms of psychopathology and psychological distress.
Duration (minimum and maximum)
The minimum duration for the study is one year and the maximum duration two years, calculated from the date of first registration for the particular programme. The faculty’s decision is based on the current subsidy model for universities and may differ from other faculties or regulations.
Curriculum
Research Theory and Dissertation in Counselling Psychology (100 credits)
Child and Adolescent Development, Pathology and Therapy (20 credits)
Theory of Psychological Interventions in Counselling Psychology (20 credits)
Ethics, Psychodiagnostics and Practical work (20 credits)
Applied Psychology and Community Interventions (20 credits)
Psychopharmacology, Neuropsychology and advanced Psychopathology in Counselling Psychology (20 credits)
