Program Overview

Master’s Program in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy

Program Facts and Information

• Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
• Standard period of study: 4 semesters (2 years)
• ECTS credits: 120
• Language: German, English
• Language requirements: Proof of German language proficiency equivalent to level C1
• Program start: Fall/winter semester (September)
• School: School of Social Sciences
• Semester fee: EUR 194
• Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: EUR 1,500
• Tuition fees for a second degree: EUR 650

Program Overview

The master’s program in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy implements the regulations for master’s programs according to the licensing regulations of psychotherapists from 4 March 2020. It is the perfect preparation for a job in psychotherapy, focusing on acquiring extensive and broad knowledge of psychotherapy as well as psychotherapeutic research methods and diagnostics. The program includes modules in health psychology and cognitive psychology, deepening existing knowledge and research skills in these areas.

The degree program is very practice-oriented, requiring students to participate in psychotherapeutic treatments in (partially) inpatient as well as outpatient settings during their studies. Cooperations with psychotherapeutic institutions ensure the quality and access to suitable internship positions. Contributing to ongoing research projects is an important part of the studies, preparing students for their master’s thesis.

Why Study Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy at the University of Mannheim?

The Department of Psychology at the University of Mannheim is one of the leading higher education and research institutions in Germany, with a focus on research areas in Cognitive Psychology and Clinical Psychology. Numerous national and international rankings have confirmed the outstanding quality of this program of study, declaring the University of Mannheim one of the best universities for studying Psychology in Germany.

Career Opportunities

With a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, graduates are exceptionally well qualified for jobs in:

• Clinical-therapeutic institutes, health care institutions
• Counseling centers or independent counseling
• Psychotherapy research and teaching

After passing the licensing exam, graduates have the job title “psychotherapist.” In the post-graduate continuing education phase of five years, they focus on the treatment of children and adolescents, or on the treatment of adults, or on neuropsychology and at least one form of psychotherapeutic therapy.

Required Interests and Skills

Students of the master’s program in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy should:

• Be interested in psychotherapy and psychopathology of people of all ages as well as neuropsychology
• Have analytical skills and very good observation skills
• Have excellent communication skills and be very empathetic
• Be very tolerant
• Be able to distance themselves from patients and to set boundaries
• Have profound knowledge of diagnostics and research methods
• Be very proficient in English

Program Structure

• Module catalog: Gives an overview of the courses and their content
• Practical work: Extensive practical work in (partially) inpatient as well as outpatient care are an integral part of the master’s program

Admission Requirements and Selection

• Admission requirements:
  • A bachelor’s degree in Psychology which fulfills the requirements under occupational law
  • Proof of proficiency in German
• Selection criteria:
  • The final grade or grade average of the bachelor’s program
  • Result of the admission test
  • Additional qualifications relevant to the program, including practical experience and scientific conference contributions and publications

Continuing Education

• Certificate programs: Strengthen potential, deepen knowledge, find solutions for challenges
• Language courses: Making language learning easier, with courses in more than 16 languages
• Studium Generale: A vast range of courses available to all, including IT, communication trainings, theater, music, or drawing courses

Doctorates

Successful graduates can pursue a doctorate at the Center for Doctoral Studies in Social and Behavioral Sciences (CDSS) of the Graduate School of Economic and Social Sciences (GESS). The doctoral programs are taught in English. Apart from that, graduates can also earn a doctoral degree at one of the psychological chairs of the School of Social Sciences.