The MA in Transcultural Counselling is a collaborative dual degree programme offered by the University of Malta and the University of Maryland, College Park. On successful completion of this postgraduate programme, students will be conferred with two Masters Degrees that are awarded separately by the respective universities. 

The objective of the programme is to provide students with a solid knowledge base and a broad spectrum of practice skills and competencies, necessary to work in a variety of counselling settings. The programme is intended to equip students with knowledge of theories and skills of counselling, as well as give them the opportunity to practice these skills under supervision and to undertake their own research efforts. The course provides training in counselling in several areas, whilst enabling students to assimilate a broader view of the sociocultural context surrounding counselling.

Why is the degree called "Transcultural?"

The transcultural aspect of the curriculum is reflected by the international nature of both the programme faculty and the expected student population. While the curriculum continues to provide students with extensive traditional counsellor training, the international composition of the programme will also provide them with a wider exchange of cultural viewpoints and experiences surrounding contemporary counselling theory and practice. 

The programme is offered under the auspices of the Department of Psychology at the University of Malta and the Department of Counselling & Personnel Services at the University of Maryland. Both institutions contribute to the experienced teaching faculty of the programme, thus exposing students to both a European and a US perspective of transcultural counselling. 

The delivery of the programme starts with each academic year in September. The course duration is spread over eighteen months (twelve months full-time and six months of practicum). The course is divided into three semesters, with the first two semesters dedicated to the taught content of the programme and the third semester devoted to independent student research. The last six months will be assigned for the practicum. 

Applications for admission will be accepted on a rolling basis with periodic reviews. The admission requirements for the course are (i) an undergraduate Honours degree (second class or higher) from a recognised institution; (ii) three letters of recommendation; and (iii) certified English language proficiency. All candidates will be asked to sit for an interview.  Prospective students are advised to consult the Admission Requirements page on this website for more details.

Apply Online for the 2013/4 Programme