New for 2026-27: Transform your PGDip into a Master’s degree in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Our Cognitive Behavioural Therapy MSc top-up module will provide you with the skills, knowledge, and support to undertake a small-scale research project or literature review in an emerging area of cognitive behavioural therapy practice. Completing this module will upgrade your PGDip into a full Master's degree, improve your research skills, and allow you the opportunity to become an expert in a novel area of cognitive behavioural therapy practice.
Overview:
This 10-month online module (starting in October 2026) is designed for individuals who have completed a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at any University in England in the last 5 years who wish to progress to a full Master’s degree (MSc).
The module is designed to be compatible with full or part time employment. Supervision is arranged flexibly, and teaching days are scheduled well in advance. As the programme is delivered online, there is no requirement to travel, and applicants are welcome from anywhere in the UK.
Led by Dr Tim Carter, Associate Professor in Mental Health and accredited CBT therapist, the module combines structured online teaching (up to four days in total) with one-to-one academic supervision. This supports the development of a small-scale research project or literature review in an area of CBT that aligns with your professional interests.
Why study CBT MSc top-up at the University of Nottingham?
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Enhanced career opportunities and professional recognition: An MSc can open doors to senior clinical roles, leadership positions, and academic pathways.
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Research skills development: Gain experience in designing and conducting research, critical for evidence-based practice.
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Academic progression: Provides a foundation for further study, including entry into lecturing, PhD or professional doctorate programmes.
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Publish your work: Our former students have published dissertation projects in academic journals, giving them national reputation and credibility in their area of expertise. See publications below.
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Personal and professional growth: Build on your Postgraduate Diploma by deepening your understanding of CBT in an area of personal and professional importance, completing just one additional module to achieve a full MSc.
Completing my MSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and particularly undertaking a dissertation comparing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with traditional CBT for depression, has been an invaluable experience. The research process offered far more than academic knowledge; it provided a deep, practical appreciation for how psychological evidence is gathered, evaluated, and applied in real-world settings
My experience of completing the MSc top-up was excellent from start to finish. Completing the top-up allowed me the freedom to identify and explore a personal area of special interest beyond that which was taught in the diploma, enhancing my knowledge and practice, as well as offering the opportunity to review and contribute to a nascent evidence base.
The support received from my supervisor was excellent, and meant that I was able to manage the demands of the top-up while still working. Supervision enabled me to shape my (somewhat diverse) ideas into an appropriate research question, and complete a piece of work that was not only really enjoyable, but that I'm really proud of. Thank you to Tim!
Publications from recent graduates
Cognitive behavioural therapy for seasonal affective disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis
S. Melton, S. Wieland, A. Bastounis, T. Carter
The effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy for depression in women with breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
S. Wieland, S. Melton, A. Bastounis, T. Carter
At-Risk Mental State Services for Psychosis Should Not Be Delivered in Secondary Mental Health Services
G. Payne, T. Carter