Overview

The Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy M.Sc. at Hartpury University is specifically designed for qualified psychologists and counsellors looking to expand their clinical expertise. This programme provides a comprehensive theoretical foundation in the roles and responsibilities of incorporating animals into human mental healthcare settings. Students will explore the complex interface between clinical practice, ethics, and research within a One Health framework.

The curriculum focuses on developing the core competencies required to achieve fitness to practice in the currently unregulated field of Animal Assisted Services (AAS). By combining online synchronous sessions with on-site practical workshops, the course ensures that practitioners can navigate legal structures while maintaining high standards of animal welfare.

Why Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy at Hartpury University?

Hartpury University is a top 10 UK university for postgraduate student satisfaction and is recognised for world-leading research. As an AAAIP recognised Academic Contributor, the institution provides access to over 70 species within its extensive animal collection. Students benefit from a 360-hectare rural estate and specialist facilities that support advanced learning in animal behaviour and welfare science.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: GBP 20625 per full
National fee: GBP 16500 per full

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the application of animal-assisted interventions within mental health frameworks. Modules may include:

Companion & Working Animal Regulations
Animal Training, Behaviour, and Assessment
Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy in Practice
Integrating Humans, Animals and the Environment into Counselling
Research Process
Postgraduate Dissertation

Careers with Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy

This applied Master's degree equips qualified mental health professionals with the specialist skills needed to include animals within their existing clinical practice. Graduates are prepared for roles in Animal Assisted Services (AAS) as clinical psychologists or counsellors. The programme aligns with ethical guidelines from industry leaders such as Pet Partners and IAHAIO, ensuring graduates can demonstrate professionalism and best practice in the field.

Accreditation

We are an AAAIP recognised Academic Contributor and this programme is pre-approved as CE credit for AAIS certificants.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Companion & Working Animal Regulations

Animal Training, Behaviour, and Assessment

Animal Assisted Counselling in Practice

Integrating the Human-Animal Environment in Counselling

The Research Process

Postgraduate Dissertation (MSc only)

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-30 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

60

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PTE Academic

63

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Gloucester, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Animal Science Counselling Psychology View 85 other Masters in Counselling Psychology in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Lower Second Class

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

60

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PTE Academic

63

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Other requirements

General requirements

2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject. Students with 2:2 and relevant experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

All students must have at least BACP level 5 or BPS accredited, Clinical Psychology, or Mental Health Counselling, or Psychotherapy Qualifications or equivalent professional qualifications for international applicants. In addition to these Counselling and Psychotherapy qualifications, all applicants must demonstrate that they have had at least 1 year of experience, which included clinical/professional supervision, after completion of their qualifications.

International

In addition to the academic qualification an IELTS 6.5 or equivalent is required.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20625 GBP / year

≈ 20625 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

16500 GBP / year

≈ 16500 GBP / year

Additional Details

PG Diploma:

National: £8,100
International: £13,750

Living costs

Gloucester

United Kingdom

824 - 1563 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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