Psychodynamic Approaches

Overview of the Psychodynamic Approaches Programme at the University of Essex

The Psychodynamic Approaches programme at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles, theories, and practices underlying psychodynamic psychology. Designed for individuals interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the unconscious mind, developmental processes, and therapeutic techniques, this programme provides both academic rigor and practical insights applicable to clinical, research, and applied settings. Throughout the course, students examine key theories from pioneering figures such as Freud, Jung, and Klein, while also engaging with contemporary developments in psychodynamic theory and practice.

The curriculum covers core topics including the history and evolution of psychodynamic thought, the role of the unconscious, attachment theory, transference and countertransference, and the ethical considerations in psychodynamic therapy. Students will also explore various psychodynamic approaches, such as object relations theory, self psychology, and contemporary relational models, allowing for a nuanced understanding of different therapeutic frameworks. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking skills, enabling students to analyze and evaluate current research, case studies, and therapeutic interventions within the psychodynamic paradigm.

This programme is suitable for a diverse range of learners, including psychology graduates, mental health professionals, social workers, and individuals seeking personal development or pursuing careers in mental health settings. The programme combines theoretical coursework with practical elements, including opportunities for supervised clinical placements, where students can observe and participate in psychodynamic therapy sessions under qualified supervision. This experiential component aims to enhance students’ practical skills, empathy, and ethical practice.

The University of Essex is renowned for its research excellence, and students on this programme benefit from expert teaching staff who are actively involved in cutting-edge research in psychodynamic fields. The programme fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment, encouraging open discussions and critical inquiry. Graduates of the programme will be equipped with a solid foundation for further postgraduate study, research roles, or professional practice in therapy, counselling, or related areas.

With flexible study options, including part-time and full-time modes, the Psychodynamic Approaches programme enables students to balance their academic aspirations with personal and professional commitments. Upon completion, students will be able to articulate comprehensive knowledge of psychodynamic theories, apply therapeutic techniques ethically and effectively, and contribute to advancing understanding within the field of psychodynamic psychology.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 5200 Year (EEA)
• GBP 8950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The course lasts for 9 months (full-time), starting in October, and consists of modules and weekly seminars to develop your understanding of psychodynamic theory and its applications. The theory seminars provide the opportunity to learn about the key concepts underpinning psychodynamic counselling and psychotherapy, exploring the ethics and wider social contexts of counselling in order to prepare you for the professional role. The observation seminars help you to develop the skills needed in psychodynamic work and the practical workshops and skill-based learning put theory into practice. To help you build your professional capacities and the qualities needed for undertaking professional counselling training, one module will consist of a weekend residential, personal development tutorials and the production of a reflective report.

Modules

Core modules

Counselling Skills With Children And Adolescents
Personal Development

Compulsory modules

Counselling Contexts
Organisational Dynamics - Theory
Personality Development
Psychodynamic Concepts
Psychodynamic Observation

Core modules must be taken and passed.
Core with options modules selected from limited lists must be taken and passed.
Compulsory modules must be taken.
Compulsory with options modules selected from limited lists must be taken.
Optional modules are selected from course specific lists.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Our applicants should have a good first degree (First or Upper Second Class) or an equivalent professional qualification. Applicants without such qualifications, who can otherwise demonstrate relevant experience and academic ability, will also be considered.
If English is not your first language, then we require IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
If your initial application is successful, you will be invited to an interview with our Course Director.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

www.essex.ac.uk/funding

The Psychodynamic Approaches programme at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive understanding of the theories, methods, and applications of psychodynamic psychology. This programme is designed to explore the historical development of psychodynamic thought, including key figures such as Sigmund Freud, Melanie Klein, and Carl Jung, and how their ideas continue to influence contemporary psychological practice. Students will examine various aspects of psychodynamic therapy, including the unconscious mind, defense mechanisms, transference, and countertransference, gaining insight into how these concepts are applied in clinical settings to understand and treat mental health issues.

The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical skills development, encouraging critical analysis of psychodynamic concepts and their relevance today. Through a series of lectures, seminars, and workshops, students will learn about different psychodynamic therapeutic approaches, including classical psychoanalysis, object relations theory, and modern psychodynamic psychotherapy. The programme also emphasizes research skills, enabling students to evaluate empirical studies related to psychodynamic therapy, ultimately fostering an evidence-based understanding of the approach.

Students will have access to experienced faculty members who are active researchers and clinicians in the field, providing opportunities for mentorship and engagement with current debates in psychodynamic theory. The programme may include opportunities for placements or supervised clinical practice, allowing students to observe and participate in psychodynamic therapy under supervision, depending on the specific course structure and accreditation standards.

Graduates of the programme will be equipped to pursue careers in mental health services, counselling, psychotherapy, research, or further postgraduate study such as a master's or doctoral qualification. The University of Essex's diverse and inclusive academic environment supports students in developing critical thinking, reflective practice, and a nuanced understanding of human psychology.

The programme is suitable for those interested in developing a sophisticated understanding of psychodynamic approaches, whether they are aiming to become professional psychotherapists, psychologists, or researchers. It provides a solid foundation for understanding complex psychological processes from a psychodynamic perspective and emphasizes ethical practice and ongoing professional development. Overall, the programme aims to prepare students to apply psychodynamic principles ethically and effectively in various professional contexts, contributing to better mental health outcomes and advancing the field through research and practice.