MSc Coaching Psychology

This one-year MSc (or two-year part-time) online course will provide you with a solid grounding on coaching psychology theory and practice from a broad variety of psychology perspectives, helping you to use a research and practice-informed approach to promote change for individuals, organisations and their communities that is sustainable – attainable, lasting and respectful of the wider social and environmental context. Additionally, the MSc Coaching Psychology programme covers a wide range of transferrable skills with real-world value, with an emphasis on personal development, professionalism and employability.
You will be expected to work towards a minimum of 80 hours of coaching supervised practice (for BPS Stage 1 accreditation), building on taught coaching psychology skills and practice during sessions (with a mandatory minimum of 20 hours of supervision, embedded in the course). Research modules will introduce you to advanced research methods, which you will apply to your very own research-based coaching psychology project. You will be assessed through observed skills practice, written assignments, supervisor’s reports and the completion of coaching hours. This course has no examinations.

We offer two routes of entry based on your academic background and BPS accreditation status.

1. Route for GMBPsS Holders (Graduate Basis for Membership of the BPS)

Minimum requirement: A 2:2 (Hons) degree in psychology, recognised by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as providing Graduate Basis for Membership (GMBPsS).

2. Route for Non-GMBPsS Holders

Minimum requirement: A 2:2 (Hons) degree in psychology (non-BPS accredited) or a related field (e.g., Counselling, Human Resources).

Important Information for Non-GMBPsS Applicants

The MSc Coaching Psychology is a BPS-accredited professional course. Applicants with a non-BPS-accredited undergraduate degree (minimum 2:2) may still apply, with eligibility assessed on a case-by-case basis (this may require you to complete an assignment).

However, please note:

• To use this MSc as a Stage 1 qualification for Chartered Coaching Psychologist training, GMBPsS is required.
• If you intend to continue to Stage 2 training, you will need to complete a BPS-accredited psychology (undergraduate or postgraduate conversion) course.

Additional requirements for all applicants

• Structured Personal statement – Download [Word] (University of Chichester alumni do not need to provide this)
• Degree transcript and/or certificate
• Reference – academic or professional (University of Chichester alumni do not need to provide this)
• Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Evidence of any BPS accreditation (if applicable)

DBS and health checks

Due to the 80 hours of coaching practice included in the course:

• A basic DBS check is recommended (£21.50, paid by the applicant), but it is not required for entry to the programme. Students do not work with children or vulnerable adults as part of their studies.
• A health check is required (covered by the course).
• University insurance covers pro-bono coaching sessions within the 80-hour requirement.
• If undertaking additional or paid coaching, students must obtain their own insurance.

These checks ensure the safe and ethical completion of the coaching practice component.

Additional requirements for international applicants

• DBS Equivalent – International students are encouraged to provide evidence of an equivalent background check.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance – Required for the 80 hours of coaching, with coverage based on local regulations in the student’s home country.