Zayed University Launches UAE’s First Master of Science in Counselling Psychology Program to Address Adult Mental Health Challenges

• Program aligns with UAE Government goals to improve mental health
• Students will experience mix of theory and on-the-job learning
• Applications now open for first students to start in Fall 2023

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 28 March 2023 – Zayed University is pleased to announce the launch of the first Master of Science in Counselling Psychology program in the UAE, designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a variety of careers in adult mental health settings in both public and private sectors such as business, healthcare, and education. The announcement aligns with the UAE's National Wellbeing Strategy 2031 and the National Policy for the Promotion of Mental Health, where improving the population’s mental health is a key priority.

The program, which will be taught by select professors from the College of Natural and Health Sciences, will be available to students from Fall 2023, and will be offered over four semesters on the Zayed University Abu Dhabi campus. To allow students to practise the theory in a workplace setting, two internships will be completed. Participants will have access to a range of resources and support services that Zayed University offers, including dedicated faculty and staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant student community.

'We are thrilled to announce the launch of the new Master of Science in Counselling Psychology, which represents the latest offering available to prospective students at Zayed University,' said Dr Gaelle Picherit-Duthler, Acting Dean of Graduate Studies at Zayed University. 'The program will provide students with a deep understanding of the psychology field, furnishing them with the expertise, knowledge and skills required to apply psychological theories and models to help adult populations with a range of psychological concerns.”

'At a time when the importance of mental health is becoming increasingly recognised, we are confident that the program will be a game-changer for students looking to enhance their professional development in this area. Upon graduation, we aim to ready graduates with a competitive edge in the job market, allowing them to achieve their professional goals,” said Dr Teresa Arora, Chair of the Psychology Department at Zayed University.

Zayed University is currently undergoing an ambitious strategic transformation, with a particular emphasis on enhancing its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Additionally, the University aims to ensure that research is integrated throughout all aspects of the institution. These new programs are designed to closely align with the national agenda and emerging trends in the private sector.

Dr Michael Allen, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Zayed University, commented on the transformation underway at the University, stating, 'Mental health is an area we have seen governments and the private sector across the globe place increasing importance on. As a university, we are transforming our models of teaching with the aim of optimising the educational outcomes of our students. This will equip our graduates with the capabilities required for future working environments, including in the field of psychology.”

Applications are now open for Fall 2023. To learn more about the new Master of Science in Counselling Psychology at Zayed University, and to check qualifying criteria, please visit the website at www.zu.ac.ae.

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