MEd Counselling Psychology major and Master of Counselling FAQ

Watch our Graduate Programs in Counselling Webinar:

Counselling Psychology Webinar

 


What graduate-level counselling psychology programs do you offer?

The Faculty of Education at the University of Lethbridge offers the following course-based graduate programs in counselling psychology:

See the University of Lethbridge Programs and Degrees page for other offerings.


What is the difference between the MEd (Counselling Psychology) and Master of Counselling programs?

The MEd (Counselling Psychology) program:

  • commences Summer (July) each year
  • is completed in two years
  • is offered full-time on campus for the first year. The second year of program includes practicum placements which can be completed at a distance.
  • includes an option to complete a Thesis (recommended route for those intending to complete a PhD)

The Master of Counselling program:

  • commences Summer (May) each year
  • is completed in three years
  • is designed for working professionals. The blended-delivery format includes online courses supplemented with on-campus components each July (2 weeks).

What is the difference between Canadian Certified Counsellor and Registered Psychologist designation?

Canadian Certified Counsellor: Graduates may be eligible for certification as a Canadian Certified Counsellor under the guidelines of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). CCPA certification attests to the level of professional counselling competence and is considered the minimum professional standard in Canada.

Registered Psychologist: Students receive the graduate-level coursework leading to registration as a psychologist within the province of Alberta. However, applicants should be aware that the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) regulates the process of registering. CAP has additional requirements beyond what is provided in the MEd (Counselling Psychology) and Master of Counselling programs. This includes undergraduate psychology courses, supervised clinical hours, and oral and written examinations.

Students are responsible for ensuring that they meet the requirements for registering as established by CAP or the corresponding body in the province/state in which they wish to achieve a professional designation.

  • Are the MEd Counselling Psychology and Master of Counselling “Approved Pathway Programs” with the College of Alberta Psychologists?

Yes, both programs are on the list of “CAP Approved Programs” relative to the graduate requirements. However, applicants should be aware that the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) has additional requirements beyond what is provided in the MEd (Counselling Psychology) and Master of Counselling programs. This includes undergraduate psychology courses, supervised clinical hours, and oral and written examinations.


What baccalaureate degree is suitable for admission?

Successful applicants have included those presenting a BA/BSc (Psychology or other majors), BEd, BHSc (Addictions), BMgmt, BN, BSW, LLB, and other degrees.


Where can I get further information on being a psychologist?

See the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) webpage for more information.