Very practical
The study/degree programme has a high practical relevance. This is not only a change from studying from a book, but is also a lot of fun.
(Image source: Psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic)
In the Master's degree program in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy at the University of Ulm, students acquire in-depth knowledge in the following areas:
Master of Science (MSc)
60
120
4
Îçҹ̽»¨ was recognised as the TOP university in Germany in the StudyCHECK ranking of the most popular universities in 2025.
Here you can see how the Master's degree programme in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy is roughly structured over the semesters.
The study/degree programme has a high practical relevance. This is not only a change from studying from a book, but is also a lot of fun.
(Image source: Psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic)
Psychology at Îçҹ̽»¨ is characterised, among other things, by its reinforced research and application orientation. Students are involved in research projects and have the opportunity to work with prestigious scientists. Innovative teaching concepts, courses in small groups and good personal support make the degree programme special. Based on the scientific tradition of Îçҹ̽»¨, students are taught both in-depth specialist knowledge and good methodological skills. At the same time, in compliance with the requirements of the licensing regulations for psychotherapists, a very practice-oriented degree programme is offered that prepares students for the licensing examination and continuing education as a specialist psychotherapist. Graduates should be able to think and work in a scientific manner as well as acquire practical professional skills for working in the field of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy.
The connection to the various psychiatric clinics at Îçҹ̽»¨ Hospital and the university's own Psychotherapeutic Outpatient Clinic (PHSA) provides opportunities for practical and local teaching and research. Thanks to our cooperation with the Medical Faculty of Îçҹ̽»¨, we have an interdisciplinary teaching programme and can guarantee places for the Professional Qualification III in Ulm and the surrounding area.
After completing your studies, you will be theoretically and practically able to diagnose, analyse and classify mental disorders and prepare clinical-psychological and psychotherapeutic assessments. You will also have skills in psychotherapeutic work with patients of all age groups in outpatient and inpatient care, taking into account professional ethical principles. This also includes the evaluation and quality assurance of psychotherapeutic measures as well as the communication of scientific findings in a way that is appropriate for the target group. You will also be taught methodological and empirical skills through practical seminars. The content of the programme is taught through practical elements such as role-playing, small group work, discussions, practical simulations and clinical internships. The degree enables you to take the licensing examination to practice as a psychotherapist and opens up opportunities for pursuing a doctoral degree, continuing education and work in diagnostics, counselling, prevention or rehabilitation facilities and psychotherapy research.
The Master's degree programme in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy generally comprises four semesters (120 CP). The modules are divided into the following areas:
1. Research Methods & Diagnostics (22 CP): Practical knowledge of advanced methods of empirical research and diagnostic procedures.
2. Advanced Topic in Basic Psychological Subjects (6 CP): In-depth study of specialised areas of psychological knowledge and systematic recording of experience and behaviour.
3. Applied Psychotherapy (8 CP): Focus on care systems, quality management and care provision.
4. Specific Abnormal Psychology: The Science and Treatment of Mental Disorders (12 CP): Knowledge of the fundamentals of psychotherapeutic treatment as well as case conception and treatment planning for various disorders.
5. Advanced Practice of Psychotherapy - BQT-II (15 CP): Competence in the field of psychotherapeutic work across the entire age range, e.g. therapeutic conversation, psychoeducational measures, emergency and crisis situations as well as new scientific developments in psychotherapy.
6. Research-oriented practical course II (5 CP): Independent study of an issue relevant to psychotherapy research and its implementation in an empirical study.
7. Applied Practice of Psychotherapy - BQT-III (22 CP): Extensive pre-professional activities in accordance with § 18 of the Licensing Regulations for Psychotherapists. You will complete these as part of an application-oriented course totalling 450 hours in (partial) inpatient care and 150 hours in outpatient care.
8. Master's thesis (30 CP): Master's thesis in the form of an empirical study on psychological and/or psychotherapeutic issues.
Information on admission can be found on the pages of the Admissions Office. Questions about admission can be answered by the relevant contact person at the Admissions Office. We have also briefly summarised the information on the Master's admission test.
The Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy master's programme was accredited in the summer semester 2024. The degree programme fulfils the professional requirements in accordance with the Psychotherapists Act and the Licensing Regulations and is recognised under professional law. The licence to practise and subsequent continuing education as a specialist psychotherapist are therefore possible.
In the new premises of the Psychotherapeutic University Outpatient Clinic, there is enough space for the training of prospective psychotherapists.
(Image source: Psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic)
A great way to broaden your horizons in a discipline is to study at a foreign university. Îçҹ̽»¨ students can apply for one or two semesters abroad at numerous universities, both throughout Europe as part of the ERASMUS programme and outside Europe. If lectures are not required, internships and theses at other universities are also possible. Îçҹ̽»¨ has exchange agreements with over 100 universities in 26 countries.
As the Master's programme in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy is strongly aligned with the requirements of the German licensing regulations for psychotherapists, only a small amount of coursework from abroad can be credited to the degree programme. A semester abroad therefore usually leads to an extension of the degree programme. The course advisors will be happy to advise you individually on the options for a stay abroad.
Most of the courses in your Psychology degree programme take place at the University West.
(Source: University of Ulm)
Panoramic view of the University West.
(Source: University of Ulm)
Examplary extract of psychotherapy with children and adolescents.
(Image source: Psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic)
Studying at Îçҹ̽»¨ - Info film
Graduation ceremony 2024 on Münsterplatz
Impressions of the city of Ulm and the University
Possible fields of activity for graduates of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy:
Welcome to the most liveable city in Germany. Albert Einstein's birthplace is a unique combination of science, leisure, top employers and culture. Top locations and events such as the Ulmer Zelt, Nabada or the Donaufest attract visitors to the quaint streets. Here, you'll feel at home!
Copyright: City of Ulm
Last step: If you can answer many of these questions positively, the Master's degree programme in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy could be the programme of your choice!
Are there any questions left? To the study counselling service