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Cultivate a deep understanding of adult mental health and foster your career as a licensed counselling psychologist

Admission is Open for Fall 2026

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For more information about master’s degree programs and scholarships offered, the application procedure, or to receive brochures, please complete the form below:

Master of Science in Counselling Psychology

College of Natural and Health Sciences

The Master of Science in Counselling Psychology prepares future mental health professionals to lead with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and scientific excellence. Rooted in evidence-based practice and aligned with UAE well-being priorities, the program equips you to promote adult mental health and resilience, while providing comprehensive preparation for professional licensure through supervised clinical practice and evidence-based training.

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Get in Touch

For more information about master’s degree programs and scholarships offered, the application procedure, or to receive brochures, please complete the form below:

Key Facts

Program Duration

4 Semesters (On Average)

Location

Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Language of Instruction

English

Credit Hours

48

Cost Per Credit Hour

AED 2,500

Application Deadline

4 May 2026

Key Facts

Program Duration

4 Semesters (On Average)

Location

Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Language of Instruction

English

Credit Hours

48

Cost Per Credit Hour

AED 2,500

Application Deadline

4 May 2026

Program Structure and Content

Required Program Courses

48 Credit Hours Required

PSY600 Cultural Competency, Ethics and Professional Practice in Psychology

PSY610 Psychological Disorders

PSY620 Theories and Models of Psychotherapy

PSY630 Psychological Assessment: Tests and Measurement

PSY640 Foundations of Psychological Interventions: Interviewing, Counseling and Prevention Strategies

PSY655 Advanced Research Methods

PSY621 Professional Development and Competency to Practice

PSY641 Special Population Focus: Public Health

PSY681 Special Topics: Mindfulness and Cognitive-based Approaches to Trauma and Grief

PSY675 Addiction Preventions and Interventions

PSY635 Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience, or PSY671 Advances in Positive Psychology, Prevention, and Community Wellbeing

PSY660 Motivational Interviewing, Group and Family Counseling and Psychotherapy

PSY690 Counseling Internship I

PSY695 Counseling Internship II

PSY699 Master’s Thesis

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Download the Study Plan

Please provide us with your details to download the study plan.

Meet the Program Conveners

Dr Teresa Arora

Associate Professor

Chair, Department of Psychology

College of Natural and Health Sciences

Dr Maria Joao Figueiras

Professor

Graduate Program Coordinator

College of Natural and Health Sciences

What Will You Learn?

Theoretical and Conceptual Knowledge

Ability to identify and demonstrate an in-depth understanding of mental health issues, compare and summarize psychological theories, assessment and intervention techniques utilized in clinical/counselling psychology.

Critical and Analytical Thinking

Ability to effectively analyze, assess, and apply appropriate and relevant prevention or intervention strategies related to the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, groups, or communities.

Research
Capacity

Ability to independently evaluate current research in psychology, as well as invent, design and develop and engage in research studies in psychology, and engage in academic writing.

Contextual Application of Knowledge

Ability to critically analyze, critique, summarize and discuss psychological concerns and interventions related to the diverse cultural context of the UAE and other communities.

Knowledge and Practice of Ethics

Demonstrate knowledge of, appraise and apply the major principles that govern professional and ethical standards in counselling and psychology.

Professional
Development

Demonstrate a commitment to develop as a scientist-practitioner through engagement in academic courses and practical and applied training.

What Will You Learn?

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be able to:

Theoretical and Conceptual Knowledge

Ability to identify and demonstrate an in-depth understanding of mental health issues, compare and summarize psychological theories, assessment and intervention techniques utilized in clinical/counselling psychology.

Critical and Analytical Thinking

Ability to effectively analyze, assess, and apply appropriate and relevant prevention or intervention strategies related to the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, groups, or communities.

Research
Capacity

Ability to independently evaluate current research in psychology, as well as invent, design and develop and engage in research studies in psychology, and engage in academic writing.

Contextual Application of Knowledge

Ability to critically analyze, critique, summarize and discuss psychological concerns and interventions related to the diverse cultural context of the UAE and other communities.

Knowledge and Practice of Ethics

Demonstrate knowledge of, appraise and apply the major principles that govern professional and ethical standards in counselling and psychology.

Professional
Development

Demonstrate a commitment to develop as a scientist-practitioner through engagement in academic courses and practical and applied training.

Who Should Pursue a Master of Science in Counselling Psychology?

Job seekers with bachelor’s degrees who want to enter the workforce after graduation.

Mid-career professionals who want to make a career change, use the degree for career advancement, enhance their skills in their current positions or pursue a doctoral degree.

Admission

Admission is open to males and females of all nationalities.

An earned bachelor’s degree in psychology from an accredited university recognized by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 (or 2.5 for conditional admission) or higher on a 4.0 point scale or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

A TOEFL score of 213 CBT, 79 iBT (or 197 CBT, 71 iBT for conditional admission), or

An IELTS (Academic) overall band score of not less than 6.0 (or 5.5 for conditional admission), or

Evidence that the applicant is a native speaker of English who has completed his/her undergraduate education in an English medium institution in a country where English is the official language.

Students wishing to enroll in the Master of Science in Counselling Psychology are required to submit the following:

An admissions interview will be conducted to explore your academic and professional experience, interpersonal skills, and motivation.

Career Pathways

Clinical Practice

Community and Social Services

Policy and Advocacy

Research and Academia

Corporate and Organizational Support

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Zayed University

Evidence-Based Learning with Compassion at Its Core

Scientifically Grounded and Culturally Responsive

Coursework integrates global best practices with local cultural understanding, preparing you for contextually sensitive counseling.

Applied and Experiential Learning

Hands-on experience through supervised internships, clinical placements, and field projects that connect theory to practice.

Research and
Innovation

Applied research addressing contemporary issues locally and globally, strengthening analytical skills and contributing to evidence-based practices.

Ethical and Professional Excellence

Training adheres to international standards for counselling competence, ethics, and professional development.

Licensure Pathway

Professional licensure with training in psychological assessment, case conceptualization, and evidence-based interventions tailored to the unique needs of adult clients.

Expert Faculty and
Mentorship

Experienced faculty who provide guidance, mentorship, and insight into contemporary counselling challenges.

3 Reasons Why You Should Choose Zayed University’ College of Natural and Health Sciences

Accreditation and Recognition

National and international accreditation will guarantee you a globally recognized graduate degree.

Research-Led Culture

Learn from faculty with years of relevant professional experience and published research in the field.

Licensure Preparation

The program meets the requirements for you to earn licensure as a psychologist.

Why Should You Pursue a Master of Science in Counselling Psychology?

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Get in Touch

For more information about master’s degree programs and scholarships offered, the application procedure, or to receive brochures, please complete the form below:

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Deanship of Graduate Studies

Zayed University Abu Dhabi & Dubai, United Arab Emirates

MOH Reference: 18.30 Psychology

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