The Programme

• Course Content

  This Postgraduate Certificate comprises three 20 credit modules:

  Fundamentals of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Semester 1) - This module provides an advanced and integrative exploration of the theoretical, empirical, and applied foundations of contemporary psychotherapy, with a particular emphasis on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Learners will critically evaluate models of mental disorder and psychological distress, situating these within the broader context of evidence-based psychological practice and current mental health policy.

  Core Behavioural Strategies (Semester 2) - Building upon HSN3026 – Foundations of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy, this module extends learners’ understanding from conceptual and theoretical foundations to the critical analysis and synthesis of behavioural models and techniques that inform CBT practice. Students will examine core behavioural principles underpinning evidence-based interventions for anxiety, depression, and related emotional difficulties. Through lectures, tutorials, and applied workshops, learners will critically evaluate behavioural conceptualisation and explore the processes by which behaviour maintains or alleviates psychological distress

  Core Cognitive Strategies (Semester 2) - Building upon HSN3026 – Foundations of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy and HSN3027 – Core Behavioural Strategies, this final module consolidates and extends learners’ ability to critically evaluate, synthesise, and apply cognitive models and strategies central to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Students will engage in advanced exploration of cognitive theory, examining how patterns of thinking, interpretation, and appraisal contribute to emotional and behavioural difficulties. Learners will critically analyse the processes of automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, avoidance, and biases, developing the capacity to conceptualise these mechanisms using structured CBT frameworks.

• Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of this course, students will graduate with a Post Graduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Advanced HealthCare Practice (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy).  

• Delivery

  Students should note that delivery may be via blended learning, with a mix of online and face to face classes as detailed within the module timetable on Canvas.

  Autumn (AUT) teaching commences w/c Monday, 21 September 2026 (Week 1) and finishes w/c  Monday, 14 December 2026 unless otherwise advised.

  Spring (SPR) teaching commences w/c Monday, 18 January 2027 (Week 18) and finishes w/c Monday, 27 April 2027 unless otherwise advised.

  Venue for first class listed below - thereafter, students should check the Weekly Planner facility on QSIS for remaining venues.

  First Semester	(Day)	(Time)	TBC
  Second Semester			TBC

• Selection Criteria

  Applicants shall normally hold a relevant 2.2 Honours degree or above, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. 

  Applicants who do not hold a 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) may be considered on a case-by-case basis where they can demonstrate evidence of successful study at Level 6 in a healthcare related subject. 

  Applicants must provide evidence of at least 20 CAT points at Level 3/6. Certificates must clearly state level of study and credit worthiness in order to meet the entry requirements. 

  In addition, applicants accessing postgraduate certificates must be working in the relevant clinical area. 

  International Trained Nurses/Midwives: If you hold an international qualification you will need to provide a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability. This should be obtained prior to submitting your application. You can apply for a statement through the ENIC website: Statement of Comparability (enic.org.uk)