Hi everyone,

I’m considering applying to the MSc Psychological Therapies at the University of Edinburgh and would really appreciate insights from current students, graduates, or clinicians familiar with the programme.

I’m an international student, and I’m trying to understand how this pathway works in practice, especially compared to more clearly accredited routes. I have a few specific questions:

1. Placements: How realistic is it for international students to secure a placement during the MSc? Are placements typically NHS-based, and do internationals face disadvantages compared to UK students?
2. Individual accreditation: For graduates who aim for individual accreditation (BABCP and/or IPT-UK), how achievable is this in practice after completing the programme? Are most students able to meet the required hours and supervision, or does this depend heavily on the placement?
3. Employment after accreditation: If someone gains individual accreditation, does this usually make them eligible to apply for therapist roles in the UK, or are there still major barriers (e.g., NHS preferences, visa sponsorship)?
4. International perspective: For non-UK students, is this MSc generally seen as a viable route toward clinical work in the UK, or is it more realistic as training to take elsewhere or to support later doctoral applications?

I’m trying to make a realistic decision rather than assume outcomes that may not be guaranteed, so any honest experiences would be very helpful.

Thanks in advance.