Cognitive Behavioural Practice

Overview

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is recognised internationally as an effective psychological treatment for many emotional and mental disorders. The UK NICE guidelines recommend Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for a number of conditions including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In Northern Ireland the DHSSPS Psychological Therapies Strategy has endorsed the principle of stepped care for mental health services and recognised the need for more evidence-based psychological interventions at all levels of care.



The purpose of this PG Cert in CBP is to train practitioners in mental health and non-mental health programmes including primary care, to apply Cognitive Behavioural Therapy models at levels 1 and 2 within a stepped care model (low intensity psychological interventions). At the end of this course students will be able to apply evidence based low intensity interventions, such as behavioural activation and guided self-help.



The programme should be of interest to all health and social care professional groups and other staff such as counsellors who wish to learn basic Cognitive Behavioural Therapy methods and is relevant for staff working in mental health, primary care and social care settings.



Please note that this course is not eligible for a Student route visa.

Core Modules

Mental Health Awareness, Engagement and Assessment (15 credits)

Evidence-Based Low-Intensity Psychological Intervention for Mild to Moderate Mental Health Problems (15 credits)

An Introduction to CBT Theories and Methods (15 credits)

Providing Psychological Interventions at Levels 1 and 2 in a Stepped Care Model (15 credits)

Entrance requirements

Graduate

A 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Applicants who do not meet this academic requirement but hold a professional qualification will be considered on an individual basis.



All applicants must have:



- Evidence of working with people who have experienced a mental health problem

- A broad understanding of mental health issues

- Good written and verbal communication skills

- Good organisational and computer skills



International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/



English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).



International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.



For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.



If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

Closing date for applications: Friday 31st July 2026 at 4pm



Late applications may be considered.



Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.

Essays, case studies and DVD-recorded role plays.

1 year (Part Time)

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

Career Prospects

Introduction

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) services are an expanding area of health and social care services due to an increasing demand for evidence-based psychological therapies. The award of the Postgraduate Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Practice will enable students to apply for professional employment at stepped care levels 1-2 and integrate CBT informed interventions into professional practice.