IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy: Admission 2026, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Last Date & How to Apply

Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a flexible and affordable 2-year postgraduate degree—extendable up to 4 years. Conducted fully through Online/Distance mode, it’s ideal for working professionals, homemakers, and learners across India. With a UGC-recognized degree, flexible timelines, and an extensive alumni base, IGNOU Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across mental health, counseling, and family therapy.

IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy Eligibility Criteria 2026

To be eligible for admission to the IGNOU Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) program, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any subject from a recognized University OR Bachelor’s degree with specialization in subjects like Human Development and Family Studies, Child Development, Human Development and Childhood Studies, Child Development and Family Relationships, Home Science, Psychology, Social Work, Medicine, or other allied disciplines OR Bachelor’s degree with a Post Graduate Diploma in Guidance and Counselling from a recognized University
• Minimum Marks Required: No minimum percentage required
• Age Limit: No age limit
• Entrance Exam (if any): No entrance test required
• Other Requirements: Lateral entry to 2nd year available for those who have completed IGNOU’s Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy (PGDCFT); a scanned copy of the PGDCFT marks sheet is required during application

IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy Admission 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers direct admission to the Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) program; you are not required to appear for any entrance examination.

Admission to Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) at IGNOU takes place twice a year, in January and July sessions.
Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) admission process at IGNOU is very straightforward - you’ll apply through the Samarth Portal ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in, upload your documents, and pay the registration fee online.
Past applicants suggest keeping scanned copies of your ID, marksheets, and a passport-size photo ready to avoid delays. Unlike many universities, IGNOU allows you to complete the entire process online, without the need to visit the campus.

How To Apply for IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy Online

Admission to Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is done entirely online through the IGNOU Online Admission System. Follow the step-by-step process below to successfully submit your application.

Step 1: Review Course Details

Go to the “Available Programmes” section on the IGNOU admission portal.
Select Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) and check:

• Eligibility criteria
• Programme fees
• Duration
• Study mode (distance/online)
  Download the IGNOU Common Prospectus and read the university rules carefully.

Step 2: Register on the IGNOU Admission Portal

Click “New Registration” in the applicant login area.
Fill in the required personal details:

• Username: 8–16 characters
• Password: Alphanumeric, 8–16 characters
  Use your own active email address and mobile number.
  Click “Submit” — your username and password will be sent via SMS and email.
  Already registered? Click “Login” to continue.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

Keep scanned copies of the following documents ready (from originals only):

Step 4: Fill and Submit the Online Application Form

Log in with your registered credentials.
Fill in your personal, educational, and communication details accurately.
Upload the scanned documents in the prescribed format and size.
Review all details carefully before final submission.
Download/print the application form for future reference.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The registration/programme fee can be paid online through:

• Credit Card (Master/Visa)
• Debit Card (Master/Visa/RuPay)
• Net Banking

Important Fee & Refund Rules

• Registration fee is non-refundable.
• Before admission confirmation: full programme fee refundable.
• After confirmation: 15% of the programme fee (max ₹2,000) will be deducted.
• No refund after 60 days from the closing date of admissions.
• Students with fee exemption will have refund rules applied as per IGNOU policy.

Note: DEB ID is mandatory for submission of application. Please create your DEB ID before starting the application process.

Tip from past students: Apply early in the cycle (July–August) to avoid last-minute portal slowdowns. IGNOU’s online system works well on desktop but can be slow on mobile devices. Once your documents are verified, you’ll receive an email confirmation along with your student ID.

Check : IGNOU Admission 2026

IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy in 2026

The annual fees to study Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) from IGNOU is INR 18,000 per year, and the total fees range between INR 36,000 for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than the traditional Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) program offered by universities like Amity University, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy Syllabus

The syllabus for Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) provides comprehensive training in counseling and family therapy, focusing on mental health, human development, and therapeutic techniques. It includes practical sessions, supervised practicums, and a dissertation to ensure hands-on experience.

• Covers 64 credits with a blend of theory, practicum, and elective courses.
• Offers specialization in Marital and Family Therapy, Child and Adolescent Counselling, or Substance Abuse Counselling in the second year.
• Includes a unique exit point after the first year for a Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy (PGDCFT).

IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy Career Opportunities

What career opportunities are available after completing Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) from IGNOU?
Completing a Master of Science (Counselling and Family Therapy) from IGNOU equips graduates with skills to pursue careers in mental health, counseling, and family therapy. The UGC-recognized degree is valued by employers, enabling graduates to work in schools, hospitals, NGOs, or private practice, with opportunities for specialization in areas like child counseling or marital therapy.

• Career options: Mental Health Professional, Marriage and Family Therapist, Child and Adolescent Counselor, Psychological Counselor, Social Worker
• Average salary: INR 3.5-5 lakh per annum
• Highest salary: Up to INR 10 lakh per annum (depending on experience and role)
• Recruiters: Schools, hospitals, NGOs, private counseling centers

FAQs about IGNOU M.Sc in Counselling and Family Therapy 

1. What is the eligibility criteria for IGNOU MSc Counselling and Family Therapy?
   Candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in any subject or a specialized degree in fields like Human Development, Psychology, or Social Work, or a Post Graduate Diploma in Guidance and Counselling from a recognized university.

2. How much does the IGNOU MSc Counselling and Family Therapy course cost?
   The total fee for the MSc Counselling and Family Therapy course is INR 36,000, with an annual fee of INR 18,000.

3. Is IGNOU MSc Counselling and Family Therapy valid for government jobs?
   Yes, the UGC-recognized MSc Counselling and Family Therapy degree from IGNOU is valid for government jobs and further studies, though it is not approved by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP).

4. How can I apply for IGNOU MSc Counselling and Family Therapy 2026?
   Apply online via the IGNOU Samarth portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in by registering, uploading documents, and paying the fee.

5. What is the duration of the IGNOU MSc Counselling and Family Therapy program?
   The minimum duration is 2 years, extendable up to 4 years.

6. Does the IGNOU MSc Counselling and Family Therapy program include practical training?
   Yes, the program includes supervised practicums, an internship, and a dissertation for hands-on experience in counseling and therapy.