Why study this subject?
Actively promoted by The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), CBT is an evidence-based therapy recommended to treat a range of mental health problems. The techniques can be applied in general medical, nursing and psychological practice.
So, whether your goal is to become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist or you want to apply the techniques in a broader context, this course gives you the skills and practical training you need to be confident in theory and practice.
Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?
We value our partnerships within the local community, including the West London NHS Trust, one of the largest mental health providers in the UK. The Trust is responsible for well-known institutions such as Broadmoor and other clinics treating more specific illnesses, like personality disorders.
BNU offers flexible study spread over two years, allowing you to study alongside employment and fit things around your lifestyle. Whether you're training to build skills to apply in your current role or looking to change your career path, this course ensures you can immediately apply Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques in a professional setting.
Our MSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is ideally suited for those who are seeking accreditation and the completion of a master’s level project on a CBT topic. You will have met the national training standards through completion of the PGDip element and would also complete a master’s level thesis as well, in your second year.
What facilities can I use?
Our library is packed with all the information you need for your assessments and there’s plenty of room to knuckle down for some quiet study.
Whilst studying with us you will also use our BucksAnywhere web service, which provides access to many of the software applications you use for learning and studying. BucksAnywhere can be used from your own device or from a University owned PC or laptop, from any location.
What will I study?
This course demonstrates how CBT can be used effectively to tackle a diverse range of mental health disorders, from depression and panic attacks to workplace stress and anger management. You'll analyse how individuals think, in order to encourage and support the implementation of positive behavioural change.
By the time you finish the course you'll have the ability to put theory into practice. You'll begin by learning how to treat mild depression and anxiety and progress towards the treatment of more complex cases making you a confident and able practitioner of CBT.
We focus on applied practice and being able to transfer theoretical knowledge to the field while developing the interpersonal qualities required for therapeutic environments. You will be encouraged to develop independent learning skills and abilities to stay abreast of the latest developments in CBT, the wider domain of mental health and therapeutic approaches.
ModulesThis provides a guide of the modules that make up your course. You can find more information about how your course is structured on our Academic Advice section.
Year 1
Core Modules
- Introduction to CBT
- Introduction to Anxiety
- Introduction to Depression
- Advanced CBT Skills for Anxiety
- Advanced CBT Skills for Depression
- Advanced CBT Skills for Practitioners
- Dissertation
* Scholarships available for international students.

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