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Questions about MA Counselling/Psychotherapy in the UK (American student)

maxjc2003

Hi, I’m an American student finishing my sociology degree and I’m hoping to move to the UK for a BACP- or UKCP-accredited counselling/psychotherapy master’s. I want to eventually become a couples/relationship therapist.

A few questions I can’t find clear answers to:

1. Which universities have the strongest counselling/psychotherapy programs for international students?
2. Are placements hard to secure as an international student?
3. Do Americans generally fit in socially on these courses?
4. Are U.S. undergrad degrees accepted without extra coursework?
5. Is it realistic to stay in the UK afterward and work toward accreditation?

Any honest insight from current students would help a lot. Thanks!

Reply 1

Kingston Sarah

Official Rep

Original post

by maxjc2003

Hi, I’m an American student finishing my sociology degree and I’m hoping to move to the UK for a BACP- or UKCP-accredited counselling/psychotherapy master’s. I want to eventually become a couples/relationship therapist.
A few questions I can’t find clear answers to:
1. Which universities have the strongest counselling/psychotherapy programs for international students?
2. Are placements hard to secure as an international student?
3. Do Americans generally fit in socially on these courses?
4. Are U.S. undergrad degrees accepted without extra coursework?
5. Is it realistic to stay in the UK afterward and work toward accreditation?
Any honest insight from current students would help a lot. Thanks!

Hello,

I wish you a smooth journey applying and moving here. For the strongest universities, here is a subject league table for counselling in the UK. Generally, placements should not difficult to find as the university will either find you a placement or support you in finding one. Also, US undergrad degrees are accepted, but additional requirements depend on the university and the course, have a look at the 'entry requirements' section for the universities you find in the subject table of league. Lastly, counselling courses usually include international cohorts (the percentage differs in each university and city), but generally universities are filled with international students including US ones and many societies that you can join, so you won't feel left out 🙂

All the best
-Sarah (Kingston Rep)