MSc Psychology of Addictions and Behavioural Change

We use a rolling admissions policy, so we accept applications throughout the calendar year until all available places are filled. Since this is a course with a cap in student numbers, due to limitations in available placements, we urge you to submit your application in time.

Contact us today and find out more about this course and the available bursaries and funding opportunities. Our admissions advisors will provide you with all necessary information and will guide you through the application and enrolment process.

Entry requirements
Our MSc Psychology of Addictions and Behavioural Change is ideal for you, if you hold an undergraduate degree in Psychology or a Social Sciences degree, with a significant psychology content.

The minimum English language requirement is equivalent to IELTS 6.5 (C1). If you do not possess an official English language certificate, you can sit the College’s internal placement test.

Moreover, you’ll be asked to submit a resume, as well as a recommendation letter from employers and tutors, and you’ll be called for an academic interview with the programme leader.

Mediterranean College has over 45 Years of Experience in the delivery of higher education courses in Psychology and Counselling. The MSc Psychology of Addictions and Behavioural Change is offered in partnership with the University of Derby (TOP 25 for Psychology, Guardian University Guide 2024) and prepares students to work effectively as psychologists specializing in addictions. Graduates can work with clinical populations and other professionals, having acquired core theoretical and empirical knowledge, counseling skills and competence in psychotherapeutic techniques and intervention plans.

What you will learn
The programme covers theory and empirical evidence on different types of addiction with an emphasis on behaviour change. Emphasis is placed on the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction and their implications for treatment, as well as models of behavior change, psychotherapeutic approaches and techniques at both individual and group levels, and pharmacological treatments and interventions. The programme also covers in-depth knowledge of diagnostic criteria, clinical assessment, and the comorbidity of addictions with specific disorders. In addition, it includes training in methodology and analysis techniques used in quantitative and qualitative research.

The content has been developed based on the local context, while at the same time the European and global frameworks & legislations are introduced. It is a programme that focuses on the practice of the profession, using real-life examples, case studies and practical training, while also incorporating a personal development plan and cultivating the concept of lifelong professional development & learning. Students need to accumulate a minimum of 100 placement hours and 20 supervision hours.

Why choose this course

• The degree is awarded by the University of Derby, a TOP25 UK University in Psychology, according to the Guardian University Guide, 2024.
• A unique programme, focusing on addictions, treatments and interventions.
• Concentrates on psychotherapeutic approaches and techniques at both individual and group level.
• Includes a 100-hour clinical placement with in-house supervision.
• Focuses on diagnostic criteria, clinical assessment, and intervention.
• Utilises a fully equipped observation suite (with a one-way mirror and audio-visual recording), appropriate for focus groups, interviews, role-plays and observational studies.
• It is fully applied and research oriented, giving you the opportunity to continue your studies towards a PhD or a DPsych.
• You will be taught by experienced academics and active professionals, who are accredited lecturers of the University of Derby.
• The School of Psychology at Mediterranean College is an organisational member of the British Association for Counseling & Psychotherapists (BACP).

MSc Psychology of Addictions and Behavioural Change

• 45+ Years of Experience in Psychology Studies
• Accredited postgraduate degree from a TOP 25 UK University in Psychology (Guardian Guide, 2024)
• Combines Psychology of Addictions with psychotherapeutic techniques & intervention plans
• Supervised clinical placement in various settings

The programme consists of six (6) 20-credit modules, as well as the postgraduate dissertation (60 credits).

We use multiple learning and teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, discussion sessions, case-based teaching, interactive workshops and lab sessions.

Throughout the programme, you will be expected to take an active role and will be encouraged to contribute to the investigation of concepts in written and oral format. This will enable you to further develop your critical and academic thinking, academic writing and argument building, personal development, reflection, communication and investigative skills.

In all modules, you will be directed to supplementary information sources, to complement the taught material and further encourage independent learning.