Master of Education in Counselling Psychology

About this programme

Our program gives students the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to work as professional counsellors in a wide variety of settings. The thesis-based program is for students who want to pursue doctoral-level degrees upon completion of their MA. The program requires at least 27 units of coursework and typically takes 2.5 to 3 years to complete. A thesis is an independent research project that requires a supervisory committee and external examination at the University level. The course-based program is for students who want to enter the counselling profession without specialized research training or the intent to complete a PhD. Students enrolled in the course-based program are required to complete 22.5 units of coursework, including a comprehensive exam. This program typically takes 2 years to complete. The Council on Accreditation for Counsellor Education Programs (CACEP) considers supervised practice as the most critical experience of the counselling psychology program. Our program includes 2 placements: an introductory first-year practicum ( CNPY 522 ) and a more extensive second-year internship ( CNPY 523 ). CNPY 522 provides basic counselling interventions with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. CNPY 523 provides intensive practice in advanced counselling techniques and approaches and is supervised by a professional counsellor in a community setting. Note: As of May 1, 2025, the counselling psychology program is administered through the Faculty of Health. Counselling course codes have been migrated from "ED-D" to "CNPY" for prerequisite cours