The MSc Cultural Therapy programme employs the ‘Scientist-Practitioner’ model which reflects the twin emphases of research and the enhancement of learning through opportunities for the practical application of theoretical knowledge.
The successful execution of the programme depends on the collaboration of CARIMENSA with a number of other entities, both within and outside the University of the West Indies (UWI). Courses are delivered from the UWI’s Section of Psychiatry, its Departments of Management Studies, and Sociology, Psychology and Social Work, its Schools of Physical Therapy and Nursing and its communications institute, CARIMAC. The Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts is an external entity which also assists with the delivery of the practical modules. The selection of additional sites for other practical placements is made on an on-going basis, depending on the specific needs of students and on the availability of appropriate host sites and supervisory personnel. Print Curriculum Guide
The minimum requirement for admission to this Master’s level programme is a Lower Second Class Honours degree or its equivalent from an approved Tertiary Level Institution. Ideally, graduates with a background in the study of Psychology are preferred; however the Department may consider applications from students based on the following:
Without first degrees: Although not ordinarily be eligible for entry into the programme, in certain instances, such persons may be referred to the University authorities for special consideration, particularly if they are mature students who have a wealth of practical experience in their field of study and a penchant for community leadership and activity.
Without a degree in the study of Psychology: Such students may also be referred to the University authorities for special consideration, particularly if they demonstrate proficiency in a related field of study, have a wealth of practical experience in their field of study and a penchant for community leadership and activity.
The syllabus consists of a mixture of new and pre-existing cross-faculty courses (please note that the course codes may have changed):
Clinical Research Skills
Cultural Therapy
Psychopathology
Issues of Caribbean Psychology: Ethics and Professional Practice Seminar
Educational Pedagogy
Entrepreneurship
Rehabilitation Management
Effective Communication
Practical Modules
Supervised Practicum
Creative Practicum
Elective Module
The Cultural Therapy programme is part-time and encompasses 36 credits over three years, at a cost of US$4,000.00 per year thus the cost for the programme in its entirety is US$12,000.00.
Our 7 faculties and 12 professional schools offer more than 200 programmes to some 18,000 graduate, undergraduate and continuing studies students.
The UWI, Mona ranks first in Jamaica among accredited tertiary-level programmes. In 2012, the University was again one of Jamaica’s Top 100 Employers.
