Program Overview

Introduction to the PGCert in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

The Postgraduate Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a comprehensive training program at Oxford, renowned for its consistent record of excellence in CBT practice, training, and supervision over more than 30 years. This course aims to equip practitioners with the CBT skills necessary to implement evidence-based treatment for the most common psychological disorders.

About the Course

The PGCert in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is part of a larger CBT training program at Oxford, which has been internationally recognized as a center of excellence in CBT. The course draws on an impressive body of local specialist skill and knowledge, providing students with:

• A sound knowledge of cognitive behavioral models, concepts, and methods
• An understanding of issues of importance relating to the theory and practice of CBT
• Competence in assessing and treating patients using CBT
• The ability to convey clearly to clients and others the central concepts of CBT and how CBT interventions work

Course Structure

The course begins in October, with five days of teaching over the first two weeks, followed by one full day per week over two terms, and one additional teaching day. At least 20% of the teaching days are held in Oxford, which students are expected to attend in person, including the first three days of the course. The remaining teaching takes place online. Students receive two hours of small group supervision on a weekly basis, focusing on CBT skills development.

Attendance and Study Commitment

This course is part-time, requiring students to attend course-related activities in Oxford, including residential sessions. It comprises 21 days of teaching over two terms, including weekly supervision groups. Students should expect to set aside six to seven hours a week for private study.

Resources to Support Study

As a graduate student, you will have access to the University's wide range of resources, including libraries, museums, galleries, digital resources, and IT services. The Bodleian Libraries, the largest library system in the UK, provides access to over 13 million printed items and e-journals. The University's IT Services supports students with core university IT systems and tools, as well as many other services and facilities.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre. Small group supervision takes place on a weekly basis, equating to 14 within-course supervision sessions. Students are also required to have a BABCP accredited Field Supervisor that they meet with at least fortnightly.

Assessment

To complete the PGCert in CBT, students need to:

• Take an active part in teaching and supervision sessions
• Complete an oral case presentation in term one
• Complete a written case report of one treated case in term two
• Submit audio/video recordings of CBT sessions for formative and summative assessment in both terms

Graduate Destinations

Completion of the course provides access to a growing network of course graduates and to an ongoing program of follow-up workshops on CBT and related topics. Further supervision through OCTC may also be negotiated, for example, for participants wishing to achieve accreditation by the British Association of Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies as a therapist, supervisor, and/or trainer.

Changes to the Course

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration.

Entry Requirements

The requirements for this course include:

• A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honors in a relevant subject
• At least one year's post-qualification clinical experience
• Competence in general clinical skills
• Access to adult treatment settings with regular clinical and CBT supervision
• English language proficiency at the University's higher level

Funding

The application deadline for this course is after the standard December and January funding deadlines, and applicants to this course are therefore ineligible for consideration for centrally-managed scholarships. However, some scholarships may be available through the University's fees, funding, and scholarship search tool.

Costs

The fees for this course are charged on an annual basis, with the annual course fee for the academic year being Ł6,210 for both Home and Overseas students. Course fees cover teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support studies.

College Preference

Students who enroll on this course will not be matriculated and will not become a member of an Oxford college. Although not formally members of the University, non-matriculated students are expected to observe the same rules and regulations as matriculated students.

How to Apply

The application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. Students should refer to the information on the course page when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents.

Application Process

Students will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of their academic ability and suitability for the course. The application form should be completed with care, ensuring all required documents are submitted by the deadline.

Visa Eligibility for Part-Time Study

The University is unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only and will need to remain based outside the UK.