Self-directed learning is a major part of the MSc year. There will be opportunities for giving and obtaining peer feedback, as well as tutor-led discussion groups and personal tutorials. Attendance will be flexible in accordance with student need and tutor availability.

Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling or equivalent needs to be achieved by the start of this module.

Etherington K (2004) Becoming a Reflexive Researcher: Using Our Selves in Research: London: Jessica Kingsley
Loewenthal D, Winter D (2006) What Is Psychotherapeutic Research? (UKCP Karnac)
McLeod J (2003) Doing Counselling Research (2nd Edn). London:Sage
McLeod J (2003). Qualitative Research in Counselling and Psychotherapy. London: Sage
Wisker, G. (2001) The Postgraduate Research Handbook. Basingstoke: Palgrave
Plus: texts relating to chosen research topic

Counselling textbooks
Learning Resource Centre
Access to video/DVD recording and playing equipment

The Masters dissertation allows counselling practitioners qualified to post-graduate level (or equivalent) to enhance their theoretical knowledge of counselling theory to a level beyond that currently required of qualified counsellors. This module will allow students to follow an area of specific interest in much greater depth than at PGDip level. The resulting dissertation also can be used to inform and educate peers on a current topic of interest to the counselling profession, as CPD evidence and as a springboard for further post-graduate study.

Summative assessment:

1. A 15,000 word DISSERTATION weighted at 100%

This assessment asks students to:
1. demonstrate their ability to convert a research proposal into a ethically and methodologically sound study
2. undertake a substantial research study
3. communicate their findings in a coherent and analytical way

Formative assessment
Tutor and peer feedback will be important in shaping students? analytical stance towards the topic they have chosen to research in more depth.

The Masters dissertation allows counselling practitioners qualified to post-graduate level (or equivalent) to enhance their theoretical knowledge of counselling theory to a level beyond that currently required of qualified counsellors. This module will allow you to follow an area of specific interest in much greater depth than at PGDip level. The resulting dissertation also can be used to inform and educate peers on a current topic of interest to the counselling profession, as CPD evidence and as a springboard for further post-graduate study.