Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 (February)
120
Overview
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Introduction
A significant number of people experience issues with mental health, addictions, and harmful behaviour during their lifetime. The Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (PGDipCBT) provides professional, practical training in CBT to assist treatment of mental health and substance use issues, and support people’s wellbeing.
UC is uniquely placed for study in CBT, with a well-established Clinical Psychology programme which provides training in CBT to clinical psychology trainees, and industry connections to Pegasus Health, Te Poari Hauora ō Waitaha | Canterbury District Health Board, Purapura Whetu, and mana whenua, along with our work in the community in response to disaster and terrorism. UC is the only university to offer this programme in Te Waipounamu South Island.
Graduates from this programme will be able to support the growing need for mental health and addiction treatment, and increase access to mental health services.
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Entry requirements
Current work of at least 0.5FTE in a clinical health-related field with opportunities for CBT practice, and access to CBT supervision, is required to enrol.
You will also need to have previously completed a bachelor’s degree in Psychology or a related area, with a B- Grade Point Average in your 300-level courses.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
A special application to enrol is required by 1 November, and places are limited to 24 students. Late applications may be considered subject to availability of placements.
Selection is based on various factors including grades, prerequisites, and letters of recommendation from nominated referees.
Applications are accepted via myUC. You must also complete this additional CBT Application form, and upload this as part of your enrolment in myUC.
For information on the application process, please contact Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
How do I plan my diploma?
The PGDipCBT is made up of 120 points of courses, which includes critical theory and application through case studies and supervised clinical practice.
PSYC442 and PSYC443 must be completed before PSYC446 and PSYC447 can be undertaken. PSYC446 and PSYC447 will be offered in alternate years, and can be taken in any order.
Courses are taught in one-week teaching blocks to accommodate working professionals.
The programme begins in February, and will take a minimum of 3 years of part-time study.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
Domestic students
2024 tuition fee estimate: $8,877 (120 points)
2025 tuition fee estimate: $9,410 (120 points)
International students
Not available to international students
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Subjects and courses
The following courses are compulsory:
- PSYC442 Clinical Practice Guidelines and Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Assessment
- PSYC443 Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Case Conceptualisation and Intervention
- PSYC446 Frontiers of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy I
- PSYC447 Frontiers of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy II
PSYC442 and PSYC443 must be completed before PSYC446 and PSYC447 can be undertaken.
PSYC446 and PSYC447 will be offered in alternate years, and can be taken in any order.
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Career opportunities
Mental health has long been identified as one of the most important factors in a healthy growing society. The Aotearoa New Zealand Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health is responding to mental health services demand with plans to increase access to talking therapies across the country, leading to more employment opportunities for our graduates.
You will find your knowledge and skills needed in a variety of settings, for example with primary health care providers, mental health providers, and schools.
Through this degree, you can directly change lives and improve mental health within Aotearoa.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student stories.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what can you do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
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Domestic students
