Master of Counselling Psychology, Alberta

CREDENTIAL
Master’s Degree

DURATION
18 – 42 months

NEXT INFO SESSIONS:

Calgary
2026
Tuesday, September 8, 4:30 PM (MST)
Tuesday, October 13, 4:30 PM (MST)
Tuesday November 10, 4:30 PM (MST)
Tuesday, December 8, 4:30 PM (MST)

Edmonton
2026
Monday, September 14, 6:00 PM (MST)
Monday, October 5, 6:00 PM (MST)
Monday, November 9, 6:00 PM (MST)
Monday, December 7, 6:00 PM (MST)

About

Important Dates — Master of Counselling Psychology (Alberta)

Rolling Applications	Contact an Advisor
Registrations Timelines

Program Description

Earn your Master of Counselling Psychology at CityU in Canada, with programs in Calgary and Edmonton. Approved by the Alberta Minister of Advanced Education upon recommendation of the Campus Alberta Quality Council (CQAC).

This program equips graduates to pursue careers as:

Counsellor therapists, can apply for the Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C) designation through the Canadian Counselling and Psycotherapy Association (CCPA).
Registered Psychologists (R.Psych), regulated by College of Alberta Psychologists.
Graduates may enter practice as counsellors or psychologists, subject to meeting the appropriate registration requirements.

Program Outcomes

Develop the Skills to Make a Meaningful Impact 

CityU’s Master of Counselling Psychology program equips students with the essential knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation needed for effective and compassionate practice. Our comprehensive curriculum ensures graduates are prepared to support diverse individuals and communities while upholding the highest professional standards. Throughout the program, students will develop expertise in key areas, including: 

Counseling Skills: Apply sound essential counseling skills derived from a credible knowledge base that encompasses diverse theoretical perspectives.
Counselling Theory: Articulate and apply a range of coherent theoretical approaches that are relevant to clients’ concerns and aspirations.
Diversity & Collaboration: Collaborate with people of diverse ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, religious beliefs and socioeconomic status.
Counselor in Community: Demonstrate an understanding of the role of counselors in promoting social justice and the well-being of the greater community.
Professional Development: Establish a commitment to professional development through continuing education, clinical supervision, self-reflection, and consultation with peers.
Research: Locate and critically evaluate research related to core areas of counseling practice.
Ethical Practice: Recognize and apply professional ethical standards, including clear and appropriate relationships with clients, colleagues, and the community.
Assessment & Testing: Gathers information to assess needs and next steps in the counseling process, including assessment for suicide/homicide risk and reporting requirements for abuse/ neglect of vulnerable populations.

Apply today to gain the skills and credentials needed for a rewarding career in counselling.

At CityU, we prioritize career advancement, accessibility, and flexibility in education! The Master of Counselling Psychology program in AB is offered in four formats:

Saturday Cohort Format

Our Saturday Cohort offers in-person classes every Saturday during the day, with a lunch break, across the Fall, Winter, and Spring terms. Each term runs for 12 weeks, with classes typically scheduled over 10 weekends. In the Summer Quarter, students attend a July intensive with classes on both Saturdays and Sundays, followed by a break in August and September.

Mixed-Mode Cohort Format

Ideal for students outside Edmonton or Calgary or those with Saturday scheduling conflicts, the Mixed-Mode Cohort blends flexible online learning with in-person residencies held quarterly in downtown Edmonton or Calgary. Designed for self-motivated learners, this format offers a structured program with the freedom to study remotely while staying connected through dynamic online discussions with peers and faculty.

Flexible Virtual Learning Options for Alberta-Based

CityU in Canada offers flexible virtual learning options through our Alberta-based program, accessible to students across Canada. Whether you prefer weekend, weekday, or mixed-mode learning, our virtual cohorts provide real-time interaction, structured support, and a strong sense of community—allowing you to balance your education with work and life commitments, no matter where you live.

Virtual Weekend Cohort (Alberta-Based): Designed for busy professionals, this format offers live, weekend morning classes via video conference. Ideal if you prefer real-time interaction but need the flexibility of remote learning. Build strong virtual connections with your cohort while balancing work or other commitments. Complete your degree in approximately 2.5 to 3 years.
Virtual Weekday Cohort (Alberta-Based): Perfect for students looking to complete their degree faster, this accelerated format offers real-time weekday classes via video conferencing. Join from anywhere in Canada and engage deeply with your cohort. With a more intensive pace, students can complete their program in 1.5 to 2 years.
Virtual Mixed-Mode Cohort (Alberta-Based): Combining the flexibility of asynchronous online learning with quarterly weekend virtual residencies, this option is ideal for self-directed learners who can’t attend weekly classes. Connect with faculty and peers through discussion boards and live residencies, all from the comfort of your home.

Weekday Cohorts

The Weekday Cohort offers flexible learning options for students looking to complete their degree at an accelerated pace. With both in-person and virtual formats, students can choose the option that best suits their lifestyle and location. Whether attending in-person at our Calgary or Edmonton campuses or participating remotely through real-time video conferences, these cohorts are designed for students who are motivated and ready to commit to an intensive course load, completing their degree in 1.5 to 2 years.

Weekday Cohort (Calgary/Edmonton): The Weekday Cohort offers in-person classes at our Calgary or Edmonton campuses, typically held from Tuesday through Friday. This fast-paced format is ideal for students who want to complete their degree in 1.5 to 2 years. With an accelerated course load, it requires focus and dedication, making it perfect for those who can commit to a full-time schedule.
Virtual Weekday Cohort (Alberta-Based): Our Virtual Weekday Cohort provides real-time, video-conferenced classes throughout the week, making it accessible to students across Canada. This accelerated program is designed for those who wish to complete their degree quickly, within 1.5 to 2 years, while engaging with their cohort virtually. It’s ideal for students who are self-motivated and comfortable with a high-paced, online learning environment.

Apply Now

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

Request Info

Admissions

Intakes

WINTER
Accepting Weekday Cohorts in Calgary Campus.

SPRING
Accepting Applications for Weekday Cohorts in Edmonton Campus and Virtual Campus

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. Holding a bachelor degree with coursework in English will typically meet English proficiency.
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.
Please contact your Enrollment Advisor for more information. Click here for details con CityU’s Master of Counselling Psychology prerequisite offering in Alberta.

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 will also receive a second email with the instructions to log into your CityU email account and document portal so that you can upload your supplemental documents.

You can contact our Enrollment Team at: Ph: 587 880-4146 or email ABInquiries@cityu.edu

4. Submit your official transcripts

You must submit official university or college transcripts for transfer credit. If you wish to receive transfer credits, please submit official university/college/International Baccalaureate (IB)/Advanced Placements (AP) transcripts either electronically or by mail. Please send all official documents to: 

Attentions Admissions
Suite 120, 1040 – 7th Ave S.W.
Calgary, AB, T2P 3G9
Canada

Or by email with password protection to: ABAdmissions@cityu.edu

Official documents may include:

Official university or college transcripts
 These documents must be sent directly from that institution to CityU. They must include the seal of the institution and the signature of the authorizing school representative. 
Certified documents
Students may also submit photocopies of academic documents verified by the issuing authority. These authorities include the Ministry of Education, the high school, university, or college, the apostille* or by the appropriate examination board.
Notarized copies are not acceptable.
*Apostille countries refers to an international form of a notary seal as certified by the Hague Convention. These would be official notary documents from countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, etc. and can be accepted in place of original or school-certified documents. The Apostille is prepared by either the Ministry of Education or the Ministry of Justice in these countries.
Please note: Documents issued in a language other than English must also include certified English translations. Documents must be in the original language of the issue and translated into English by a recognized translator if required. 
Original academic documents
 An academic document is original if issued to the student by the institution following that institution’s policies.
Notarized copies are not acceptable.

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.

6. Get ready for your first day

Once you’ve been accepted into a program, you’ll need to start planning your courses. You will be notified of your acceptance through your CityU email and your myCityU account. You will also receive a LOA to the email you used when sending your application.

If you are new to the city check your campus page:

Calgary Campus

Edmonton Campus

Virtual Campus

International Students

International Students are only accepted into the Weekday Cohorts in Edmonton and Calgary Campus. If you are an international student and you are interested in attending one of our programs please contact our partner Global Education Alliance at:

GEA International Admissions
Ph: +1 604-512-8877
Mobile: +1 778-996-7123
Email: CityU@myGEA.ca

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.
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 $200.

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: Ph: 587 880-4146 or email ABInquiries@cityu.edu

4. Submit your official transcripts

Official documents may include:

Official university or college transcripts
 These documents must be sent directly from that institution to CityU. They must include the seal of the institution and the signature of the authorizing school representative. 
Certified documents
Students may also submit photocopies of academic documents verified by the issuing authority. These authorities include the Ministry of Education, the high school, university, or college, the apostille* or by the appropriate examination board.
Notarized copies are not acceptable.
*Apostille countries refers to an international form of a notary seal as certified by the Hague convention. These would be official notary documents from countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, etc. and can be accepted in place of original or school-certified documents. The Apostille is prepared by either the Ministry of Education or the Ministry of Justice in these countries.
Please note: Documents issued in a language other than English must also include certified English translations. Documents must be in the original language of the issue and translated into English by a recognized translator, if required. 
Original academic documents
 An academic document is original if issued to the student by the institution following that institution’s policies.
Notarized copies are not acceptable.

5. Interview

6. Receive an offer letter

If you are accepted into a program, you will receive a letter of offer in your CityU email inbox. You will need to confirm your acceptance into the program.

7. Receive a letter of acceptance and apply for a study permit

After paying your tuition deposit, you will receive a letter of acceptance in your CityU inbox. This may be used to apply for, or renew, a study permit. Depending on your citizenship, you may also need to apply for an entry visa.

Most international students need a study permit to be able to study in Canada. The links below prove useful guidelines that might help to navigate the process:

Studying in Canada
Application to study in Canada
Study Permit
Student work permit (must have been a fulltime student for a minimum of six month before qualifying)
Staying in Canada after graduation

8. Get ready for your first day

Once you’ve been accepted into a program and have applied for your study permit, you’ll need to start planning your courses.

You will be notified of your acceptance through your CityU email.
View our page for admitted international students to learn how to prepare for your first day.
If you are new to the city check out your campus page

Calgary Campus

Edmonton Campus

Virtual Campus

Post Graduate Work Permit Eligibility

International students enrolled in the Master of Counselling Psychology program at City University in Canada are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) upon successful completion of their studies.

Tuition 2026-2027

Tuition and your Student Journey

The tuition rates listed here applies to the academic year from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Please note that tuition may change in future years.

We recognize that every student pathway is unique. Tuition for this program is structured based on your student status:

Domestic students (Canadian citizens and permanent residents)
International students (studying in Canada on a study permit)

Each pathway reflects a different program experience and tuition structure. We encourage you to review the section that applies to you for clear, relevant information as you plan your studies.

Domestic Students

Tuition	CAD
School of Health Sciences/ Master of Counselling Psychology— per Credit	$650
Undergrad Prerequisite for Master of Counselling Psychology— 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	$450
Unpaid Bill Carrying Cost Fee	1%

*Fee is set by Government Agency – subject to change.
** Fee is set by vendor and subject to change.
***Fee Includes processing fees set by vendor and subject to change.
**** Shipping to international addresses done via eShipGlobal’s University Express Mail Services (UEMS) and mailing charges are paid to the shipping vendor directly
*****Alumo Coverage – 2026-2027 Policy Year

Coverage Period	Amount in CAD $
Annual: Oct. 1, 2026 – Sept. 30, 2027	$380
Winter 2027: Jan. 1 – Sept. 30, 2027	$285
Spring 2027: Apr. 1 – Sept. 30, 2027	$190
Summer 27/28: July 1 – Sept. 30, 2027	$95

International Students

Tuition	CAD
School of Arts and Sciences Graduate/ Master of Counselling Psychology— per Credit	$800
Undergrad Prerequisite for Master of Counselling Psychology— per Credit	$242
Other Fees
Application Fee	$200
Alumni Audit per Course	$210
Challenge Course Fee	$450
Diploma Apostille Fee*	$30
Diploma Authentication Fee*	$15
Diploma Apostille/Authentication Fee*	$45
Diploma Re-Issue Fee	$50
English Language iTep Testing Fee**	$70
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%

Coverage Period	Amount in CAD $
Annual: Oct. 1, 2026 – Sept. 30, 2027	$380
Winter 2027: Jan. 1 – Sept. 30, 2027	$285
Spring 2027: Apr. 1 – Sept. 30, 2027	$190
Summer 27/28: July 1 – Sept. 30, 2027	$95

SCHOLARSHIP AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Scholarships

CityU in Canada is committed to supporting students through a range of scholarship opportunities. In 2026, students may apply for need-based scholarships and the Investing in Indigenous Scholars Scholarship. We encourage you to explore eligibility and plan for future application cycles.

Find Out About Available Scholarships

Financial Support Through Government Student Loans

We’re committed to supporting you throughout your educational journey. Alongside scholarship opportunities, you’ll find helpful guidance and tips on financial aid in our resources below, tailored to your province of residence.

Explore Financial Aid Guides and Resources

Pocket Book

Download our comprehensive Financial aid Pocket Book

Download

Full-time Students

Get here our Financial Aid Guide for full-time students

Download

Contact us

Our advisors are ready to help you at any time of your process

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.

CityU Canada 2026–2027 Refund Schedule by Term and Session

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 complete 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
	Total Additional Required Courses	11 cr

Internship / Practicum

CPC 654	Practicum I: Case Conceptualization & Counselling Psychology Practice	3 cr
CPC 655	Practicum II: Ethical Issues in Counselling Psychology Practice	3 cr
CPC 633	Internship	0 cr
	Total Internship/Practicum	6 cr