About IGNOU MSCCFT – Master of Science in Counselling and Family Therapy
This programme teaches you how to support people and families dealing with emotional stress or relationship troubles. It prepares you to work as a professional counselor who can handle mental health issues using scientific therapy methods and practical tools.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you have finished your college degree and want to work in hospitals, schools, or private clinics as a mental health professional, this course is for you. It is perfect for teachers, social workers, or nursing staff who want to gain a specialized Master’s degree to help families solve internal conflicts. Many students who are already working in NGOs or child care centers choose this to get a formal qualification in therapy.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it is much cheaper than similar degrees at private universities and allows you to study while keeping your current job. The IGNOU degree is recognized across India, making it a safe choice for government job applications. It also focuses specifically on family dynamics and systemic therapy, which are very useful skills that regular psychology courses often do not cover in such detail.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After finishing this course, you can find work in schools as a student counselor or in family courts to help with mediation. You can also join mental health departments in private hospitals or start your own counseling center to help couples and parents. Many graduates work with non-profit organizations like CRY, Helpage India, or local child guidance clinics to support vulnerable communities.
IGNOU MSCCFT (Master of Science in Counselling and Family Therapy) Highlights
The table below provides a quick overview of the essential details regarding the Master of Science in Counselling and Family Therapy for the 2026 academic session.
| Programme Name | Master of Science in Counselling and Family Therapy |
| Programme Code | MSCCFT |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Offering School | School of Continuing Education |
IGNOU MSCCFT Admission – Important Details
Securing an IGNOU MSCCFT Admission requires students to participate in both theoretical learning and intensive practical sessions. You will be attached to a Learner Support Centre (LSC) where you must attend counseling sessions and complete your supervised practicum. Since this is a Master’s level professional course, you need to re-register for the second year separately after completing your first-year requirements. The university provides study materials in both printed and digital formats to help you prepare for the term-end examinations held in June and December.
IGNOU MSCCFT Admission Last Date 2026
The IGNOU MSCCFT Admission process happens twice every year. For the January session, the last date is typically February 28, 2026. For the July session, the deadline is usually July 31, 2026. Students should always check the official Samarth Portal for any date extensions or late fee notifications to ensure their application is processed on time.
IGNOU MSCCFT Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the MSCCFT programme, you must satisfy the following academic conditions as set by the School of Continuing Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Preference is given to candidates with a background in Psychology, Sociology, Child Development, or Nursing.
- Candidates who have completed the PG Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy (PGDCFT) from IGNOU are eligible for lateral entry into the second year.
- There is no age bar for seeking admission to this programme.
IGNOU MSCCFT Fees Structure 2026
The fee for this programme is kept affordable to ensure students from all backgrounds can access professional mental health training. Below are the specific costs:
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Full Programme Fee | Rs. 33,600 (Approx.) |
| Per Year Fee | Rs. 16,800 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (Non-refundable) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MSCCFT Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create your unique username and password by providing your email and mobile number.
- Fill out the digital application form and select MSCCFT from the programme list in the Master’s category.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near you that offers counseling services for this course.
- Upload required documents: your latest photo, signature, and scanned copies of your graduation certificates.
- Pay the admission and registration fees online via Credit card, Debit card, Net Banking, or UPI.
- Save and print your application form and payment receipt for future use during document verification.
IGNOU MSCCFT Curriculum and Course Structure
The Master of Science in Counselling and Family Therapy is designed to be completed over two years. The first year focuses on the basic building blocks of human development and mental health, while the second year moves into advanced therapeutic techniques and specialized field work. You must earn a total of 64 credits to get the degree.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| First Year | MCFT-001: Human Development and Family Relationships |
| First Year | MCFT-002: Mental Health and Disorders |
| First Year | MCFT-003: Counselling and Family Therapy: Basic Concepts |
| First Year | MCFT-004: Counselling and Family Therapy: Applied Aspects |
| First Year | MCFTL-001: Reflective Journal (Practicum) |
| Second Year | Check official IGNOU website for current details. |
IGNOU MSCCFT Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Continuing Education.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Prof. Neerja Chadha | neerjachadha@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572959 |
| Dr. Amiteshwar Ratra | amiteshwar@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572947 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MSCCFT
Graduates with this Master’s degree can work as Family Counselors in private practice or as School Counselors in Kendriya Vidyalayas and private international schools. You are also eligible to work as a Rehabilitation Specialist in de-addiction centers or as a Mental Health Consultant in corporate HR departments. Many students join large NGOs like Save the Children or the Red Cross to work on community health projects. With this degree, you can also apply for Counselor roles in government family welfare departments or child guidance clinics run by state governments.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ Admission details for the 2026 session will be updated after IGNOU releases the official notification. Always verify fees, dates, and eligibility at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in before applying.
Also Read
More resources for MSCCFT students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MSCCFT Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University). All information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Fee amounts, eligibility criteria, and admission dates are subject to change. Always verify current details at ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
