Psychology: Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy
Ludwigstraße 23, 35390 , Germany
Master of Science in Psychology: Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy
University of Giessen (Justus Liebig University Giessen)
Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy
Program Overview: Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy at JLU Giessen
The Master of Science in Psychology with a focus on Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy is a modular program offered by JLU Giessen's Faculty 06 (Psychology and Sport Sciences). It is designed as a consecutive program following a polyvalent Bachelor's degree in Psychology, preparing graduates for the state examination (Approbation) and a career as a licensed psychotherapist in Germany.
The program conveys in-depth methodological and scientific knowledge alongside theoretical foundations and, crucially, psychotherapeutic and professional practice skills with due regard for patient safety and patient rights. The curriculum aligns with the German Psychotherapist Licensing Regulations (PsychThApprO), ensuring graduates meet all prerequisites for the state examination.
Students benefit from JLU Giessen's strong research environment, including the Bender Institute of Neuroimaging (BION) and the department's own behavioral therapy outpatient clinic. After successful completion of the Master's degree, graduates may also pursue doctoral studies at JLU Giessen.
Key Program Highlights
- Qualifies graduates for the German psychotherapist state examination (Approbation), leading to a license to practice
- Curriculum fully aligned with the Psychotherapist Licensing Regulations (PsychThApprO), combining theory with extensive clinical practice
- Access to JLU's Bender Institute of Neuroimaging (BION) and the faculty's behavioral therapy outpatient clinic for hands-on training
- Research-oriented internship embedded in clinical-psychotherapy working groups, preparing students for advanced academic work
Curriculum and Modules
The M.Sc. Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy program comprises 120 ECTS over four semesters, with 105 ECTS earned through the program's own teaching units and 15 ECTS through professional placements at cooperating (partially) inpatient institutions. The curriculum consists of 10 compulsory modules spanning core research methods, diagnostics, biological foundations, psychotherapeutic applications, and extensive clinical practice.
Research Methods in Psychology
9 CPThis core module deepens students' competencies in advanced research methodology, including quantitative and qualitative approaches relevant to clinical psychology research and evidence-based practice.
Psychological Diagnostics
10 CPStudents develop expertise in psychological assessment, diagnostic classification systems, and standardized testing procedures essential for clinical evaluation and treatment planning.
Biological Aspects of Mental Illness
10 CPThis foundational module covers the neurobiological, genetic, and physiological underpinnings of psychological disorders, integrating neuroscience perspectives with clinical understanding.
Special Disorders and Behavioral Theory (Parts 1 and 2)
12 CP (6 + 6)An application-focused module examining specific psychological disorders in depth, including their etiology, maintenance, and treatment from behavioral and cognitive-behavioral theoretical frameworks.
Applied Psychotherapy
7 CPStudents gain practical psychotherapeutic skills through supervised training in therapeutic techniques, case conceptualization, and intervention planning across various clinical settings.
Occupationally Qualifying Activity II and III (Clinical Placements)
37 CP (15 + 22)Extensive supervised clinical placements in cooperating healthcare institutions, where students apply psychotherapeutic skills in real clinical environments under professional supervision, ensuring patient safety.
Additional Program Components
Admission Requirements
Admission to the M.Sc. Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy is competitive and subject to local admission restrictions (Numerus Clausus). Places are allocated in accordance with the Hessian University Admission Ordinance. Enrollment is only possible in the winter semester. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeBachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Psychology or a recognized equivalent degree with a minimum of 180 CP (6 semesters standard duration)
- Psychotherapist Act ComplianceThe Bachelor's degree must have professional recognition in accordance with the German Psychotherapists Act (PsychThG) and comply with the Approbation Regulations
- Psychology ModulesAt least 120 CP in psychological modules, including graded coursework in key foundational and applied areas
- Methodology RequirementGraded courses in Psychological Methodology (minimum 9 CP) and Psychological Diagnostics (minimum 6 CP)
- Foundational SubjectsAt least four graded modules (6 CP each) in: General Psychology, Biological Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Differential/Personality Psychology, or Social Psychology
Language Requirements
- German ProficiencyThe program is taught entirely in German; DSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4 (or equivalent) is required for international applicants
- Recommended LevelMinimum B1 German recommended for exchange courses; full degree students need C1 or higher
- English Reading SkillsGood English reading proficiency is expected for scientific literature and research publications
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
While public universities in Germany, including JLU Giessen, generally do not charge tuition fees for degree programs, students should plan for semester contributions and living expenses. Several scholarship opportunities are available to international students pursuing this program. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized funding guidance.
DAAD Study Scholarships for Master's Studies
Approx. EUR 992/month plus travel and insurance allowancesThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for international postgraduate students to pursue a full Master's degree in Germany, covering monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel costs.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300/monthA merit-based national scholarship program co-funded by the federal government and private sponsors, available to high-achieving students at German universities regardless of nationality.
Erasmus+ Programme
Varies by country of originEU-funded mobility grants available for students from partner institutions who wish to study at JLU Giessen as part of an exchange program, covering living and travel expenses during the mobility period.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the M.Sc. Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy program are uniquely qualified to pursue the German psychotherapist state examination (Approbation), which grants a license to practice as a psychotherapist. The program also prepares you for careers in clinical research, healthcare management, and academic settings within the mental health sector.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employers and Work Settings
Rankings and Recognition
Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU), founded in 1607, is one of the oldest universities in the German-speaking world and is recognized internationally for its strong research profile, particularly in life sciences and psychology. JLU consistently appears in major global university rankings and has received excellent ratings for its Psychology department in the CHE University Ranking.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | THE Subject Ranking | 176-200 |
| Psychology (CHE Ranking) | CHE University Ranking | Top Group (Graduation in reasonable period, Research funding) |
| Education Studies | THE Subject Ranking | 201-250 |
| Medical and Health Sciences | THE Subject Ranking | 251-300 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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