Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental health disorders experienced by all ages. Cognitive Behaviour Psychotherapy (CBP) is currently the key recommended psychological treatment for these and other mental health conditions. It is essential that practitioners are prepared with the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to deliver CBP competently. This course is written to the requirements of the lead organisation in the UK which sets the competency standards for Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy. The teaching at the University is of the highest standard. This course will fundamentally alter the way clinicians work in practice.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy is jointly offered by the School of Nursing and Midwifery and the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work. It is a rationalisation of two separate postgraduate diplomas in CBP/CBT which were previously offered by the two Schools. The programme meets the minimum training requirements for accreditation as a CBP therapist by the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).
Please note that this course is not eligible for a Student route visa.
Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy highlights
Professional Accreditations
The Postgraduate Diploma has been accredited by the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy professional body, The British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) to Level 2 (meeting BABCP minimum training standards criteria for individual therapist accreditation on successful completion of the course). The programme is also accredited for social workers at the specialist award level with NISCC.
Internationally Renowned Experts
The teaching team is comprised of a multi-disciplinary group of accredited, skilled Cognitive Behavioural Therapy staff, who are currently involved in clinical practice and research.
Career Development
This programme provides a fast track to an exceptional career as a practising Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist.
Student Experience
Students in the School of Nursing & Midwifery at Queen's are well supported through a network of Personal Tutors inside the University, as well as Link Lecturers and supervisors while in practice.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBP) consists of 6 x 20 credit modules, which are linked to the BABCP Minimum Training Standards for therapist accreditation (Level 2) and the Specialist Level award for social workers.
Students undertake three core modules and one optional module in Year 1 and, two core modules in Year 2. Please liaise with the programme lead Colin Hughes for advice regarding the optional module.
Students attend one day per week with small group supervision provided in the morning, followed by workshop teaching for the remainder of the day.
This programme is shared by the School of Nursing and Midwifery and the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work. Students commencing the programme in Sept 2025 will be managed by the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Students commencing year two of the programme will be managed by the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work.
Modules taken in year two of the programme are CBP7104 and CBP7105.
Module Information
The Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBP) consists of 6 x 20 credit modules, which are linked to the BABCP Minimum Training Standards for therapist accreditation (Level 2) and the Specialist Level award for social workers.
CBP 7101: Core Concepts & Skills of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy for Depression
This module is intended to provide an introduction to the core theories, concepts and skills of CBT, the application of the CT model to depression and the efficacy of CBT in treating Depression.
CBP7102: Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy for Anxiety Disorders
This module is intended to provide an overview of the core theories and skills of cognitive behavioural therapy and the efficacy of CBT in treating anxiety disorders.
CBP7103: Training Supervision of the application of CBP Models and Skills for Depression and Anxiety
This module is intended to provide an introduction to the core theories, concepts and skills of CBT, the application of the CT model to depression and anxiety disorders and the efficacy of CBT in treating depression and anxiety disorders.
CBP7104: Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy for Complex Disorders
This specialist module is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the core theories and skills of CBT with complex cases and the efficacy of CBT in treating these disorders.
CBP7105: Training and supervision for the application of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy for Complex Disorders
This specialist module is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the core theories and skills of CBT with complex cases and the efficacy of CBT in treating these disorders.
HSN7076: Evidence Based Practice (optional)
The student will be introduced to the principles of Evidence Based Practice (EBP). Students will reflect upon their practice; topic of inquiry; framing searchable questions and searing for the evidence; critical appraisal of a randomised controlled trials; critical appraisal of systematic reviews and qualitative study.
SWK7106: Self-Practice / Self-Reflection in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (Optional)
This module will provide the student with a comprehensive grounding in the practice of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy self-reflective practice and related issues underpinning self-care.
Students undertake 3 core modules and 1 optional module in Year 1 and 2 core modules in Year 2.
12 (hours maximum) Classes will be delivered both face to face and online.
Learning and Teaching
Learning opportunities available with this course are outlined below:
Teaching
Modules are provided one day per week at Queen's.
Assessment
Assessments will be carried out in a variety of formats, including written assignments, case studies, recorded clinical sessions and a portfolio.
The way in which you are assessed will vary according to the learning objectives of each module. Modules are assessed through project work, written assignments, written and oral examinations and recordings of therapy sessions. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Module Handbook which is provided to all students at the start of each module
Facilities
In 2020 the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences opened a new, fully integrated teaching facility, designed to enable teaching of nursing, midwifery, medical and pharmacy students. The facility will include treatment rooms, operating theatres and immersive simulation. Students will work in teams in simulated scenarios where they will learn to manage real-life situations. http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofNursingandMidwifery/ClinicalEducationCentre/
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2025/26). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
Relationship between empirical research and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Dealing with problems in therapy, in particular, suicidality and hopelessness.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will have acquired knowledge to be able to:
1. Assess and conceptualise the maintenance of mental disorders, particularly depression, within a cognitive behavioural framework.
2. Elicit key cognitions and apply relevant behavioural and verbal re-attribution techniques.
3. Develop a CBT case formulation and Socialize clients to the CBT model.
4. Apply fundamental principles of CBT: Session structure, establishing collaboration, agenda setting, setting homework, and goal setting.
5. Identify and Challenging Negative Automatic Thoughts.
6. Identify and challenge assumptions and beliefs.
7. Understand the relationship between empirical research and cognitive therapy.
8. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of cognitive theory of mental disorder.
Skills
On successful completion of this module students should demonstrate the ability to:
1. Develop a CBT treatment plan based on a collaboratively designed case formulation
2. Employ behavioural methods in Cognitive Therapy.
3. Use a generic CBT model and key associated treatment skills and techniques.
4. Manage important problems in therapy, in particular, suicidality and hopelessness.
5. Use standardised assessment instruments, measure progress, and employ treatment outcome measures
Lectures and workshops shall provide students with the theoretical basis of cognitive Behavioural therapy, introduce students to cognitive formulations, and the key skills of CBT therapeutic practice. These sessions shall provide both didactic teaching and supervised experimental learning.
Small group role plays shall provide the opportunity to consolidate learning and develop practical and clinical skills. These groups shall also provide the opportunity for critical debate and analysis.
Students will be directed to study core text material and journal papers.
Students will be expected to use the university learning resource facilities.
Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy for Anxiety Disorders
Overview
This module shall teach students the disorder specific CBT models for each of the anxiety disorders and the cognitive and behavioural skills and techniques most suitable for the treatment of each disorder based on individual case formulations.
The CBT models for the following disorders shall be covered.
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety
• Health anxiety
• Obsessional Compulsive Disorder
• Generalised anxiety disorder
• introduction to PTSD
• Co-morbid conditions
• Integrating behavioural methods such as exposure within a cognitive conceptualisation and model
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will have acquired knowledge to be able to:
1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of cognitive theory of anxiety disorders.
2. Assess and conceptualise the maintenance factors for specific anxiety disorders, (e.g. panic disorder, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD).
3. Implement treatment derived from specific models.
4. Identify key cognitions and relevant safety-seeking behaviours in relation to anxiety disorders.
Skills
On successful completion of this module students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and ability to:
1. Apply the disorder specific CBT models for each of the anxiety disorders.
2. Decide upon the cognitive and behavioural skills and techniques most suitable for the treatment of each disorder.
3. Integrate behavioural methods such as exposure within a cognitive model.
Training Supervision - application of CBP Models and Skills for Depression and Anxiety Disorders.
Overview
This module develops clinical skills in the application of CBT models for emotional disorder with a specific emphasis on depression and anxiety disorders.
This module will enable students to practice and apply the generic CBT model and disorder specific models and provide opportunities to practice key treatment skills and techniques.
This module will enable students to apply and practice the theories and skills taught in the modules one and two, including:
•Practice of developing a cognitive case formulation.
•Practice of using structure, establishing collaboration, agenda setting, setting homework and goal setting.
•Practice of using behavioural methods in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
•Practice of identifying and modifying Negative Automatic Thoughts.
•Practice of identifying and challenging assumptions and beliefs.
•Practice of assessment: measuring progress, and using treatment outcome measures.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Understand how cognitive theory for depression and anxiety disorders underpins CBT practice.
2. Understand the function of key cognitions during therapy and apply relevant behavioural and verbal re-attribution techniques.
3. Use standardised measures to measure outcome in treatment.
Skills
On successful completion of this module each student should demonstrate the ability to:
1. Assess client needs, review the therapeutic process and modify therapy procedures as necessary.
2. Apply specific CBT techniques and skills for depression and a range of anxiety disorders.
3. Sustain a problem-focused, collaborative and empirically based therapeutic relationship.
The student will be introduced to the principles of Evidence Based Practice (EBP) where students will reflect upon their practice; topic of inquiry: framing searchable questions and searching for the evidence; critical appraisal of a randomised controlled trials; critical appraisal of systematic reviews and qualitative study.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student will be able to, demonstrate competency in:
1 Critically appraise the role of evidence-based practice in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy.
2 Discuss and understand the skills and knowledge that will allow participants to incorporate evidence based practice into clinical decision-making.
3 Critically review searchable questions arising from clinical problems and issues.
4 Appraise appropriate sources of information for relevant questions.
5 Critically appreciate and utilise skills in searching electronic databases.
6 Discuss the skill necessary to appraise research using relevant frameworks.
7 Implement critically reviewed evidence in the clinical setting to address patient problems or clinical issues.
Skills
Students will demonstrate skills of critical thinking, applied reflection and analytical and interpretative skills.
Knowledge and understanding - Demonstrate a critical overview of related subject areas, including critical understanding of principal theories and investigative concepts; critical knowledge and understanding of the subject in relation to the area of practice; critical thinking skills and discursive techniques; evaluate the arguments of others and present robust arguments and defence of position; demonstrate originality and creativity in the development and application of knowledge, understanding and practice.
Cognitive Skills - Apply a constant and integrated approach to critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new and complex ideas, information and issues; identify, conceptualise and offer original and advanced insights into new, complex and abstract ideas, information and issues;
Develop creative and original responses to problems and issues; Critical analysis/ discernment and application of knowledge to practice.
Transferable skills - Demonstrate an ability to engage in critical debate at an advanced level, with an ability to utilise a wide range of resources to support advanced decision making and deal with complex professional issues in ways that demonstrate reflective, autonomous and evidence based performance; appropriate use of information technology to access national and international databases; retrieval of pertinent information; critical analysis /discernment and application of knowledge to practice; self-reflection and a strengthening of the therapeutic interaction; utilise assessment skills and decision making in clinical practice.
Applicants must hold a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a cognate area, such as Mental Health Nursing, Psychiatry, Applied Psychology or equivalent recognised professional qualification(s).
In addition, you should have:
• At least two years' clinical practice / experience in a relevant area (statutory or independent sector) working with clients with mood and anxiety disorders, AND
• Be employed in clinical practice in a suitable area (where CBT approaches are employed) with the support of your management for study on the course, AND
• Have access to a minimum of eight suitable clients and supervision by an experienced BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist while on placement in your own clinical area.
The eight clients must represent a minimum of at least three different types of mental health condition.
• A minimum of four cases will have been closely supervised.
• You must have access to your supervisor and be under supervision while you are seeing clients.
• You must spend a minimum of one hour per week engaged in face-to-face supervision; some of this must be ‘live’ supervision.
• All assessment and therapy sessions, with client consent, must be video recorded; this is both for supervision and assessment purposes and meets the requirement for ‘live’ supervision.
Applications are accepted from non-core professions such as counsellors. Non-core professionals, however, will be required to provide a portfolio of evidence in line with KSA guidelines as provided by the BABCP. Applicants who meet the academic criteria but who are non-core and unable to provide KSA evidence will be required to enter through the School's KSA pathway. In this instance if all other requirements are met the applicant will be offered a place on the one-year certificate programme to allow time for the KSA portfolio to be completed. On successful completion of this course and the completion of the KSA portfolio, the student will normally then be eligible for application to the PG Dip programme.
Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements should contact CPADSNAM@qub.ac.uk for advice.
Late applications may be considered.
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.
International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, Queen's University Belfast International Study Centre offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy services are an expanding area of mental health services due to an increasing demand for evidence-based psychological therapies. The award of the PG Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy will enable students to apply for professional employment as fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapists.
Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes help our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.
Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Students are required to register for BABCP membership; the student rate is currently £25. BABCP accreditation is optional for all students and would normally be applied for at the end of training at the PG Diploma level.
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
How do I fund my study?
The Department for the Economy will provide a tuition fee loan of up to £6,500 per NI / EU student for postgraduate study. Tuition fee loan information.
A postgraduate loans system in the UK offers government-backed student loans of up to £11,836 for taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas (excluding Initial Teacher Education/PGCE, where undergraduate student finance is available). Criteria, eligibility, repayment and application information are available on the UK government website.
