Master of Counselling Psychology
CREDENTIAL
Master’s Degree
DURATION
18 – 42 months
About
Important Dates – Master of Counselling Psychology (Virtual Campus)
Program Description
Earn your Master of Counselling Psychology at CityU in Canada, with programs offered virtually across Canada.
This program is approved by the Alberta Minister of Advanced Education upon the recommendation of the Campus Alberta Quality Council (CAQC).
The program equips graduates to pursue careers as:
- Counselling therapists, qualifying for the Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C.) designation through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
- Registered Psychologists, regulated by the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP).
- Registered Psychotherapists regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)
- Registered Clinical Counsellors (R.C.C.) designation of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)
Graduates may enter practice as counsellors or psychologists, subject to meeting the appropriate registration and licensing requirements.
Our Virtual Program allows you to attend classes via videoconference. This synchronous face-to-face learning modality offers a real-time classroom experience from the comfort of your home, without relying on discussion boards or asynchronous online formats.
There is a short break between each quarter, ensuring that you have time throughout the year to rest, practice self-care, and connect with your family
Pedagogical methods for virtual cohorts mirror our other synchronous learning environments. Instruction includes didactic teaching, Socratic questioning, student-led presentations, case studies, role plays, and many other interactive and experiential learning opportunities.
Program Outcomes
The Master of Counselling Psychology program equips students with the essential knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation required for effective and compassionate practice. Our comprehensive curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared to support diverse individuals and communities while upholding the highest professional standards.
Program Learning Outcomes:
- Counselling Skills: Apply essential counselling techniques grounded in a credible and diverse theoretical knowledge base.
- Counselling Theory: Articulate and implement a range of coherent theoretical approaches that are relevant to clients’ concerns and goals.
- Diversity & Collaboration: Collaborate respectfully and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including differences in ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic status.
- Counsellor in the Community: Demonstrate an understanding of the counsellor’s role in promoting social justice and enhancing the well-being of the broader community.
- Professional Development: Commit to ongoing professional growth through continuing education, clinical supervision, self-reflection, and peer consultation.
- Research: Locate, evaluate, and apply research relevant to core areas of counselling practice.
- Ethical Practice: Recognize and uphold professional ethical standards, including maintaining appropriate relationships with clients, colleagues, and the community.
- Assessment & Testing: Gather and interpret information to assess client needs and determine appropriate next steps in the counselling process, including risk assessments for suicide/homicide and mandatory reporting requirements for the abuse or neglect of vulnerable populations.
Effective Virtual Learning Environment
The Master of Counselling Psychology Virtual Program follows a cohort-based learning model, meaning you complete all of your courses in a virtual, yet synchronous, learning environment—attending regularly scheduled classes at set times each week with the same group of peers. The program typically takes 1.5-2 years to complete, or 2-3 years to complete, depending on the cohort structure and the internship pathway selected to fulfill your supervised practice hours.
Delivery Modes
Virtual Weekend Cohort
Classes are held via video conferencing on weekend mornings, offering a convenient format for students who prefer real-time instruction but do not live close to a campus location or prefer virtual learning. You will meet with your cohort virtually, forming meaningful relationships just as you would in an in-person setting. This format is ideal for students who are working or managing a busy lifestyle. Most students complete the program in 2.5 to 3 years. We offer two intake periods each year: April and October.
Virtual Weekday Cohort
Our Virtual Weekday Cohort holds classes via video conferencing throughout the week. This convenient format offers the flexibility of real-time instruction and is accessible to students located anywhere in Canada. You will engage with your cohort virtually, forming meaningful relationships just as you would in our in-person cohorts. This option is ideal for individuals seeking to complete their degree at an accelerated pace. The program requires a high level of focus and commitment, as students follow an intensive course load. It is well-suited for those who have the availability and are comfortable with a faster learning format. Most students complete the program in 1.5 to 2 years. We offer two start dates per year: April and October.
Virtual Mixed-Mode Cohort
This cohort combines asynchronous online learning with two quarterly virtual residencies conducted through real-time video conferencing. It is an ideal format if you are unable to attend weekly classes and do not live near one of our physical campus locations or have a busy lifestyle. This cohort offers flexibility within a structured framework, making it well-suited for disciplined and self-motivated learners. You will participate in meaningful online discussion board exchanges with your fellow students and faculty, and connect with them face-to-face via live video conferencing for two weekends each quarter. This cohort also works great for students who like to write, and enjoy taking time to reflect about what they are learning. We offer two start dates per year: April and October.
Career Pathways
- Community mental health agencies
- Behavioral healthcare organizations
- Social service agencies
- Private practice
- Hospitals
- Government agencies
- Employee assistance programs
- Military system
- Substance use treatment centers
Admissions
Important Dates
Upcoming Info Sessions
Intakes
We offer two start dates per year: April and October
Requirements & Application
Are you applying as a domestic or international student?
Domestic Students
1. Check the program-specific requirements
- English Proficiency:
English is the language of instruction at CityU. All applicants are required to demonstrate competence in the English language prior to admission. If English is not your first language or you’ve received your education in a language other than English, you must meet our English Language Requirements. - Basic Requirements:
Undergraduate coursework showing the fundamental knowledge in each of the areas of Learning, Cognition, Personality and Human Development. Fill out the form.
Click here for details on CityU’s Master of Counselling Psychology prerequisite offerings in Alberta. - Program-specific requirements:
- Essay – Please download the guidelines for the 4-6 page essay.
- Questionnaire – Please complete this background questionnaire.
- Resume
- References – The 3 professional references may be from any combination of academic instructors, professional managers/supervisors, or volunteer supervisors. Personal and client references will not be accepted as one of the three required professional references but may be submitted as supplementary documentation. Download the form.
2. Submit your application
- Visit the Apply Now section, and fill in your application form.
- Pay an application fee of $50.
3. Receive an acknowledgment email
Once your application form and application fee have been received and processed you will receive an email from our Enrolment Team with instructions on how to submit the supplemental documents. Please allow up to 5 business days for your application form to be processed, and please check your junk folder to ensure you receive the email from your Enrolment Advisor.
You can contact our Enrollment Team at:
If you are located in Ontario or BC, please contact Swati Randhawa at 778 588-5021, or email: randhawaswati@cityu.edu
If you are located in Alberta, or elsewhere in Canada, please contact Michael Grienke at 587 880-4146, or email ABInquiries@cityu.edu.
4. Submit your official transcripts
Once you apply, the Enrollment Advisor for your region will email you the instructions to send your Official Transcripts.
5. Interview
Once your application is complete, you will be invited to participate in an interview with the Program Director and/or members of their Academic Team. This conversation will help us get to know you better and determine your eligibility for acceptance into the program. You will be notified promptly regarding the outcome of your interview, and the status of your application.
2026-2027 Tuition
Tuition
Are you applying as a domestic or international student?
Domestic Students
| Tuition | CAD |
|---|---|
| School of Health Sciences/ Master of Counselling — per Credit | $650 |
| CPC 97 Practicum Completion Course (0 Cr) – Flat rate, first enrollment: zero tuition) | $250 |
| Undergrad Prerequisite for Master of Counselling — per Credit | $242 |
| Other Fees | |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Alumni Audit per Course | $450 |
| Challenge Course Fee | $450 |
| Diploma Apostille Fee* | $35 |
| Diploma Authentication Fee* | $20 |
| Diploma Apostille/Authentication Fee* | $55 |
| Diploma Re-Issue Fee | $50 |
| English Language iTep Testing Fee** | $75 |
| Final Degree Audit Application Fee | $100 |
| Late Registration Fee | $100 |
| Official Transcript per Copy – Online PDF*** | $16,40 |
| Official Transcript per Copy – Electronic Exchange*** | $15,90 |
| Official Transcript Fee per copy—Onsite**** | $18 |
| Extended Health Insurance Coverage with Alumo (Oct. 1, 2026– Sept. 30, 2027)***** | $380 |
| Auditing Fees | |
| Unpaid Bill Carrying Cost Fee | 1% |
International Students
| Tuition | CAD |
|---|---|
| School of Arts and Sciences Graduate/ Master of Counselling — per Credit | $800 |
| Undergrad Prerequisite for Master of Counselling — per Credit Effective July 1, 2025, the new rate for prerequisite courses will be $232 per credit | $210 |
| Other Fees | |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Alumni Audit per Course | $210 |
| Challenge Course Fee | $450 |
| Diploma Apostille Fee* | $35 |
| Diploma Authentication Fee* | $20 |
| Diploma Apostille/Authentication Fee* | $55 |
| Diploma Re-Issue Fee | $50 |
| English Language iTep Testing Fee** | $75 |
| Final Degree Audit Application Fee | $100 |
| Late Registration Fee | $100 |
| Official Transcript per Copy – Online PDF*** | $16,40 |
| Official Transcript per Copy – Electronic Exchange*** | $15,90 |
| Official Transcript Fee per copy—Onsite**** | $18 |
| Extended Health Insurance Coverage with Alumo (Oct. 1, 2026 – Sept. 30, 2027)***** | $380 |
| Auditing Fees | |
| Unpaid Bill Carrying Cost Fee | 1% |
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
Pocket Book
Download our comprehensive Financial aid Pocket Book
Full-time Students
Get here our Financial Aid Guide for full-time students
Contact Us
Please contact the Canada Financial Aid Office for other provinces besides ON, BC & AB.
Refund Policy
Refund Policy
At CityU, we understand that circumstances can change. The guidelines below explain the conditions under which tuition and fees may be refunded for students who withdraw from courses.
Eligibility for Refunds
- Tuition is refundable only when a student officially withdraws in accordance with the University’s Tuition Refund Schedule.
- Students who are withdrawn due to disciplinary reasons or a breach of conduct are not eligible for a refund of tuition or fees.
- Students who attend classes without having paid may request to be withdrawn; their accounts will be credited according to the standard refund schedule.
- Students who withdraw at the end of the term are not eligible for a refund or credit. If a course must be repeated, full tuition will apply.
Official Withdrawal Process
To officially withdraw from a course:
- Students must contact their Academic Advisor or the Office of the Registrar.
- The date of contact will determine the applicable refund amount.
- Students receiving financial aid must notify the CityU in Canada Financial Aid Office to ensure compliance with applicable funding rules.
- The Financial Aid Office will notify relevant provincial financial aid authorities.
- Students may be required to repay the awards received, depending on the nature and timing of the withdrawal.
Appeals for Extenuating Circumstances
If a withdrawal occurs outside the standard refund schedule due to a personal hardship (e.g., medical, family emergency), a student may submit a refund appeal.
- Appeals must be submitted in writing and include supporting documentation.
- All appeals will be reviewed by the CityU Withdrawal Committee.
- The Committee will notify the students of the decision once a review is complete.
Payment Obligations and Non-Refundable Deposits
- Tuition deposits and tuition fees are non-refundable after the published refund deadline.
- Students who fail to pay in full will be responsible for the unpaid balance on their student account for the quarter.
- Unpaid accounts may be referred to collections in accordance with University policy.
Refund Disbursement
- Students should clearly state how they would like any eligible refund to be processed (e.g., credit card, check, applied to a future term).
- Credit card refunds will be returned to the original card.
- Refund balances of less than $1.00 will be written off at the end of the fiscal year (June 30), unless required otherwise by financial aid or veteran benefit regulations.
2026-2027 Term Schedule Overview
The following table outlines the key dates for the 2026 – 2027 term, including term start dates, refund deadlines (100% and 50%), and end dates.
| Session | Last Day to Officially Withdraw | 100% Refund Due | 50% Refund Due | 0% Refund Due |
| Summer Quarter (July 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026) | ||||
| 10-Week Session | August 30 | Through July 12 | July 13 – 26 | July 27 & after |
| 5-Week I Session | July 26 | Through July 6 | July 7 – 12 | July 13 & after |
| 5-Week II Session | September 6 | Through August 17 | August 18 – 23 | August 24 & after |
| 4-Week July | July 24 | Through July 1 | July 2 – 7 | July 8 & after |
| 4-Week August | August 24 | Through August 1 | August 2 – 7 | August 8 & after |
| 4-Week September | September 24 | Through September 1 | September 2-7 | September 8 & after |
| Fall Quarter (October 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026) | ||||
| 10-Week Session | November 29 | Through October 11 | October 12 – 25 | October 26 & after |
| 5-Week I Session | November 1 | Through October 5 | October 6 – 11 | October 12 & after |
| 5-Week II Session | December 13 | Through November 16 | November 17 – 22 | November 23 & after |
| 4-Week October | October 24 | Through October 1 | October 2-7 | October 8 & after |
| 4-Week November | November 24 | Through November 1 | November 2-7 | November 8 & after |
| 4-Week December | December 24 | Through December 1 | December 2-7 | December 8 & after |
| Winter Quarter (January 1, 2027 – March 31, 2027) | ||||
| 10-Week Session | March 7 | Through January 17 | January 18 – January 30 | February 1 & after |
| 5-Week I Session | February 7 | Through January 11 | January 12-17 | January 18 & after |
| 5-Week II Session | March 21 | Through February 22 | February 23 – February 28 | March 1 & after |
| 4-Week January | January 24 | Through January 1 | January 2-7 | January 8 & after |
| 4-Week February | February 22 | Through February 1 | February 2-7 | February 8 & after |
| 4-Week March | March 24 | Through March 1 | March 2-7 | March 8 & after |
| Spring Quarter (April 2, 2027 – June 30, 2027) | ||||
| 10-Week Session | May 30 | Through April 11 | April 12 – 25 | April 26 & after |
| 5-Week I Session | May 2 | Through April 5 | April 6 – 11 | April 12 & after |
| 5-Week II Session | June 13 | Through May 17 | May 18 – 23 | May 24 & after |
| 4-Week April | April 24 | Through April 1 | April 2-7 | April 8 & after |
| 4-Week May | May 24 | Through May 1 | May 2-7 | May 8 & after |
| 4-Week June | June 24 | Through June 1 | June 2-7 | June 8 & after |
Dates DO NOT correspond to individual courses that fall into a session.
Courses
Core Courses
Click here for a detailed description of the courses
| CPC 501 | Introduction To Counselling Psychology Practice | 5 cr |
| CPC 502 | Systemic Theory: Diversity and Cultural Psychology | 3 cr |
| CPC 510 | Professional Ethics and Law | 3 cr |
| CPC 511 | Psychology of Loss and Grief | 3 cr |
| CPC 512 | Family Systems Therapy | 5 cr |
| CPC 513 | Brief Therapy Models | 3 cr |
| CPC 520 | Qualitative Research Methods in Counselling Psychology | 3 cr |
| CPC 514 | Research Methods and Statistics | 3 cr |
| CPC 522 | Psychology of Trauma and Interpersonal Violence | 3 cr |
| CPC 523 | Psychology of Sexuality and Human Development | 3 cr |
| CPC 524 | Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology | 5 cr |
| CPC 556 | Assessment in Counselling Psychology | 5 cr |
| CPC 526 | Counselling Psychology Theory | 5 cr |
| CPC 527 | Group Counselling Psychology | 3 cr |
| CPC 529 | Psychology of Addictions | 3 cr |
| CPC 551 | Comprehensive Exam-Alberta, Canada | 0 cr |
| Total Core Courses | 55 cr |
Additional Required Courses
| CPC 600 | Child and Adolescent Counselling | 3 cr |
| CPC 606 | Couples Counselling | 3 cr |
| CPC 695 | Counselling Psychology: Research Project (or) | 5 cr |
| CPC 696 | Counselling Psychology: Thesis | 5 cr |
| Total Additional Required Courses | 11 cr |
Internship / Practicum
Academic Calendar
Academic Calendar
All the information you need to stay on track with your studies. View the academic calendar for class start dates.
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Have a Question?
Master of Counselling Psychology, Calgary
1040 7th Avenue SW
Suite 120
Calgary, AB T2P 3G9
Ph: 587.880.4150 or 1.800.663.7466
calgary@cityu.edu
Master of Counselling Psychology, Edmonton
10121 Jasper Ave
Edmonton, AB T5J 4X6
Ph: 587.881.7887 or 1.800.663.7466
edmontonadmin@cityu.edu
General Inquiries
789 W Pender Street
Suite 310
Vancouver, BC V6C 1H2
Ph: 604.689.2489 or 1.800.663.7466
vancouverbc@cityu.edu