The English language requirements for our programmes are indicated by English bands, and therefore the specific test and score acceptable is based on the band assigned to the academic department within which your chosen course of study is administered. Note that for some academic departments there are programmes with non-standard English language requirements.
The English Language requirements for entry to postgraduate taught and research programmes in the Wolfson Institute falls within the following English band:
Band 4: IELTS (Academic) minimum score 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking
We accept a range of English tests and qualifications categorised in our English bands for you to demonstrate your level of English Language proficiency. See all accepted English tests that we deem equivalent to these IELTS scores.
This programme is designed to deepen your understanding of how socio-cultural factors influence mental health, mental illness, and the organisation and delivery of mental health care. It will equip you to work in research or mental health care related roles within multicultural settings in the UK and internationally as well as provide a strong foundation for further training as a therapist, social worker, or clinical psychologist.
You will explore how cultural elements - such as belief systems, values, ethnicity, practices, and traditions - affect both mental health vulnerability and resilience. The programme also considers how wider phenomena such as migration, racism, and structural inequalities intersect to shape mental health experiences, and how these can be addressed in clinical practice and mental health systems. This includes consideration of the implementation of innovative therapeutic approaches and the adaptation of existing psychological models and care pathways to better meet diverse needs.
You will also develop your research skills and complete an independent research project on a topic related to culture and mental health.
Please note that this programme does not lead to registration as a psychotherapist in the UK. Further advanced clinical training is required for professional registration.
The MSc in Mental Health: Cultural Psychology and Psychiatry is also available as a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) or Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert).