DCounsPsych Counselling Psychology / Application and selection

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Main application deadline - 19/01/2026

• Interview round 1 (Week commencing 02/03/2026) (Exact dates will be confirmed with candidates who are invited to interview)

Application deadline 2 - 16/03/2026

• Interview round 2 (Week commencing 13/04/2026) (Exact dates will be confirmed with candidates who are invited to interview)

Your completed application should include:

• A personal statement (maximum 3,000 words, with appropriate academic referencing). This should outline your reasons for wishing to study on the programme, your academic experience, counselling training and theoretical knowledge, and your personal readiness. Candidates are required to follow the guidance (in the ' how to apply ' document) on this personal statement.
• A brief research proposal for your proposed thesis in counselling psychology (1500 words). This should include your proposed title, an overview of the rationale for the research, research question and proposed methodology (See 'how to apply '). You should include how it fits with the counselling psychology team at Manchester (see team details below), as well as highlighting connections to the Manchester Institute of Education research and scholarship groups. Please note - DCounsPsych candidates are not required to approach a particular research supervisor ahead of applying, as supervisors are allocated during the first year of training.
• Two references , one of which should be familiar with your academic work, on headed paper from the institution, signed, dated and stamped. Note that as part of your application you will be required to nominate two referees. Our automated system will contact your referees once your application has been submitted.
• Degree certificate(s) and transcript(s) for your all qualifications that meet the academic entry criteria.
• Evidence you hold Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership Status with the British Psychological Society or your current qualification deems you eligible.
• Evidence of your basic counselling skills training (such as training certificates);
• Evidence of your English language proficiency. In line with requirements of our accrediting bodies, this can only be evidenced via an IELTs.
• A detailed CV.
• A copy of the data pages of your passport.

You will also need to pass a Criminal Convictions Check, which is undertaken and paid for by the University if offered a place on the programme.

Admission to studying for a PhD or a Professional Doctorate is highly competitive, so please allow as much time as possible to prepare your application, browse our research pages and academics' profiles, and familiarise yourself with the application process and any important deadlines.

For further guidance please downloadour DCounsPsych information document.