Qassim University

What you'll study

This master's combines coursework, supervised practice and a research component to prepare students for professional counselling work. Core topics cover counselling theories and approaches, psychological assessment, lifespan and developmental psychology, psychopathology and diagnosis, and ethics and professional issues in counselling.

• Counselling Theories and Techniques – major models of counselling, integrative approaches and applied skills development.
• Psychological Assessment – standardized assessment methods, diagnostic interviewing and report writing for educational and clinical settings.
• Developmental and Educational Psychology – child and adolescent development, learning difficulties and classroom-based interventions.
• Psychopathology and Intervention – common mental health disorders, evidence-based interventions and crisis management.
• Group Counselling and Family Therapy – dynamics, facilitation skills and systemic approaches.
• Research Methods and Statistics – quantitative and qualitative methods, programme evaluation and preparing a thesis or applied research project.
• Practicum / Supervised Clinical Placement – extended placement in schools, community centres or health services with clinical supervision.
• Ethics, Professional Practice and Cultural Context – professional standards, confidentiality, legal issues and culturally responsive practice in the Saudi context.

The programme typically culminates in a thesis or a substantial applied research project and requires completion of supervised practicum hours to demonstrate counselling competence.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree in education, psychology, counselling or a related field from a recognised institution.
• A minimum academic standing at undergraduate level as specified by the Faculty of Education; applicants with lower grades may be considered subject to additional assessment or bridging coursework.
• Submission of academic transcripts, a CV, and a personal statement outlining professional goals and counselling experience.
• Some applicants will be invited to an interview or assessment of counselling potential and communication skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the language of instruction (Arabic is commonly used; applicants should confirm language requirements with the department). Additional language support or assessments may be required for non-native speakers.
• Relevant work or voluntary experience with children, adolescents or community groups is advantageous but not always mandatory; international applicants should provide equivalent documentation as required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for counselling and related roles across educational, clinical and community settings. Typical career paths include:

• School counsellor or guidance counsellor in primary and secondary schools.
• Psychological counsellor in health clinics, hospitals or community mental health centres.
• Family and youth counsellor in social services and non-governmental organisations.
• Specialist roles supporting students with learning difficulties or behavioural needs within educational institutions.
• Human resources and employee assistance programmes where counselling and wellbeing expertise are required.
• Further academic study and research, including doctoral programmes in counselling, educational psychology or related fields.

Why study at Qassim University

• Regional relevance – the programme is tailored to the cultural and educational context of the Qassim region and wider Kingdom, preparing graduates to work effectively in local schools, health services and community organisations.
• Practical training – a strong emphasis on supervised practicum placements provides hands-on experience in real-world settings alongside experienced supervisors.
• Experienced faculty – academic staff with backgrounds in educational psychology, clinical counselling and research supervise student learning and applied projects.
• Research opportunities – access to university research centres and support for thesis and applied research projects addressing local needs in mental health and education.
• Facilities and partnerships – links with regional schools, healthcare providers and social services help secure placement opportunities and support graduate employability.