Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology | HBKU

The Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology is uniquely offered within an Islamically integrated framework. It aspires to fill an urgent need for more trained mental health practitioners who are cognizant and capable of effectively integrating the religious sensitivities of Muslim populations into mental health care treatment.

 

Students are trained within a curriculum structure that is consistent with international competency standards for mental health practitioners for potential licensure anywhere in the world. In addition, under the guidance of internationally recognized faculty in the field, students have unique training opportunities to build their clinical experience—both on-site at the psychology training clinic housed within CIS as well as off-site through the program’s external mental healthcare partners.

The holistic approach of the program aims to produce a generation of scholars and practitioners to enrich the nascent field of Islamic psychology both locally and globally.

Language

English

Program Duration

2.5 Years

Certification

Masters

The MA program in Counseling Psychology aims to utilize the rich Islamic academic atmosphere of CIS to advance clinical training and scholarship that is Islamically oriented and integrated. Students will have the opportunity to train under internationally distinguished faculty and develop a research focus that speaks to their interests and the gaps in current practice.

A 55-credit degree program taught over 2.5 years* in English that includes:

*Students have the opportunity to fast-track their studies by completing all requirements within two years, or extending their study to a maximum of three years.

  • Fourteen core courses (42 credits)
    Course Name
    Advanced Techniques and Interventions
    Appraisal and Psychological Assessment Methods
    Career and School Counseling
    Cross-Cultural Psychotherapy
    Ethical, Professional, and Legal Issues in Psychology
    Foundations of Islamic Sciences
    Group Therapy
    Human Growth and Development
    Introduction to Psychotherapy and Counseling Theories
    Introduction to Psychology in the Islamic Tradition
    Marital and Family Therapy
    Psychopathology and Diagnosis
    Research and Program Evaluation
    Substance Abuse and Addictions
  • Practicum (1 credit)
  • Internship I and II (6 credits)
  • Thesis or Research Project (6 credits)

Applicants seeking admission to the masters programs should have a bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (minimum 3.0 GPA or equivalent) from a recognized institution.

Program Required Field of Study Language Requirements
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology Psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field.

IELTS: 6.5 or TOEFL: 79
Applicants may be exempt from this requirement if they provide an official letter confirming that they obtained their degree from a university where the medium of instruction is English.

 

  • Applicants seeking admission to the MA in Counseling Psychology should have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of 4.0 from a recognized institution.
  • Applicants with a background in Islamic Studies are preferred (e.g., diplomas, certificates, post-baccalaureate programs). Applicants who do not have a bachelor’s degree in mental health-related fields must demonstrate that they have completed coursework in psychology.

For more information regarding Admission requirements visit the following link

Fees and Financial Information
Program Program Tuition Fees Program Duration
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology QAR 72,000

2.5 years