Program Overview

---

Introduction to the PGDip in Psychodynamic Practice

The PGDip in Psychodynamic Practice is a postgraduate diploma program that integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical experience, aiming to bring trainees to the level of professional competence. This course is part of the University of Oxford's master's program in psychodynamic practice, accredited by the Universities Psychotherapy and Counselling Association (UPCA).

About the Course

The PGDip in Psychodynamic Practice is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of psychodynamic theory and practice. The course constitutes the second part of the University of Oxford's master's program in psychodynamic practice. Students who complete the full program and the necessary clinical hours will be eligible for professional accreditation with UPCA as a psychotherapeutic counsellor.

Course Structure

The PGDip runs one evening a week over six terms at Oxford Lifelong Learning and consists of:

• Term-time weekly lecture/application sessions, clinical seminars, and experiential groups
• Two tutorials per term with an academic tutor, and one tutorial per term with a clinical tutor
• Four Saturday workshops
• Clinical placement to complete a minimum total of 100 clinical hours, with supervision at a minimum 1:6 ratio to clinical hours
• A minimum of 40 hours personal therapy each year, with a psychodynamically trained and course-approved therapist/counsellor

Attendance and Resources

This course is part-time, requiring attendance at some classes, seminars, and workshops in Oxford. 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.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of Oxford Lifelong Learning. It is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff.

Assessment

The course is assessed by five written assignments and one dissertation, and end-of-year tutor and supervisor reports. The assignments and dissertation are weighted as follows:

• Five assignments, each counting for 14% of the final mark
• Dissertation, counting for 30% of the final mark

Graduate Destinations

Graduates of the PGDip course may apply to progress to the MSt in Psychodynamic Practice. Approximately 50% of students do this.

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 entry include:

• A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject
• The Postgraduate Certificate in Psychodynamic Counselling, or an equivalent course
• English language proficiency at the University's higher level
• GRE General Test scores are not required
• Working experience in a helping role and/or experience of personal therapy may be an advantage

Funding and Costs

The annual course fees for the academic year are:

• Home: Ł6,450
• Overseas: Ł12,745 Additional costs include:
• Travel and accommodation expenses for attending teaching in Oxford
• Costs for personal therapy and supervision
• Professional insurance for placement work
• Student membership of UPCA

College Preference

Students who enrol on this course will not be matriculated and will not become a member of an Oxford college. However, they are expected to observe the same rules and regulations as matriculated students.

How to Apply

The application process involves submitting an application form, including:

• Three references, which can be academic and/or professional
• Official transcript(s) giving detailed information of individual grades received in university-level qualifications
• A personal statement, written in English, explaining motivation for applying, relevant experience and education, and specific areas of interest
• An application fee of Ł75, although fee waivers are available for eligible applicants

After Submitting the Application

The application will be assessed against the entry requirements, and whether or not funding has been secured will be taken into consideration. The shortlisting and selection process will involve evaluating the applicant's intellectual ability, academic achievement, motivation, and ability to work in a group.