Cognitive Behavioural Studies

This course is not accepting applications this cycle, but is expected to reopen to applications in the next admission cycle. The information on this page has been retained to provide an indication of the course content in previous years. Fees and costs are only valid for the year which is shown and will usually increase annually. The University is under no obligation to deliver the same course in the future. This page may be updated at any time prior to the course re-opening to applications.

The Postgraduate Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Studies is part of a comprehensive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) training programme, which has been renowned for its consistent record of excellence in CBT practice, training and supervision over the past 25 years.

Oxford is internationally recognised as a centre of excellence in CBT and the course draws on an impressive body of local specialist skill and knowledge.

The course aims to provide students with:

• a sound knowledge of cognitive behavioural models, concepts and methods;
• an understanding of issues of importance relating to the theory and practice of CBT, including the relationship between CBT theory and therapy;
• an understanding of the use of CBT with a variety of client groups and disorders;
• related research on outcome and process; and
• the ability to convey clearly the central concepts of CBT.

The course does not aim to prepare students to practice, teach or supervise CBT. The emphasis is on acquiring an understanding of the theory and practice of CBT treatment and supervision, within an explicit theoretical framework in relation to associated empirical research. To this end, students will attend and complete the theoretical components of the PGCert in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and relevant PGCert in Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy specialisms, thus covering CBT treatment for common psychological disorders, psychological trauma, psychosis and bipolar and complex presentations. This course is appropriate for researchers seeking to gain a strong theoretical foundation in CBT.

Course structure

The course structure will vary according to the order in which the modules are attended. Reading and completion of written assignments and research presentations will be undertaken in addition to the teaching days. Many students find it effective to set aside six to seven hours a week for private study. In order to complete the PGCert in Cognitive Behavioural Studies, students are required to complete the following components:

Foundations

This must be taken in year 1 of the programme. Students will attend 5 days of teaching in September and 2 days in October, and submit a 2,000 word written assignment in November.

Psychological trauma

This must be taken in year 1 of the programme. Students will attend 2 days of teaching in October, and 1 day of teaching in February, and submit a 2000 word essay in March.

Psychosis and Bipolar

This must be taken in year 2 of the programme. Students will attend 3.5 days of teaching in October and 1.5 days in November, and complete an assessed presentation in November or December.

Complex Presentations

This must be taken in year 2 of the course. Students will attend 2 days of teaching in March and 3 days in May, and complete an assessed presentation in July.