Studying toward the MSt in MBCT at Oxford – What is it really like?

For many, the idea of studying for a degree at Oxford evokes images of dreaming spires and impeccably mown college quads, peopled by distracted dons lost in thought…

Whilst the beautiful architecture of the city is indeed one of the perks of studying here in Oxford, the reality of doing the Master’s degree in MBCT is quite different, and thankfully, much more compatible with a busy, modern life in which work and family commitments prevail.

The degree in MBCT is a part-time course spread over two years. During this time there are 10 teaching blocks, of three to four days each, which are held in Oxford. There are also three residential retreats which focus on the experiential side of the course, held at retreat centres in the British countryside, and which students are expected to attend. Beyond these residential aspects, students are expected to spend a minimum of one day per week on private study, slightly more in the second year when there are more assignments to complete. There is no need to live in Oxford, and although the course is academically demanding, it is perfectly possible to complete alongside other life commitments.

Every student is affiliated to a college, and the two colleges accepting students onto the MBCT course are St Catherine’s College and Kellogg College. These are both relatively modern colleges, which can offer accommodation during your teaching blocks, and various perks such us free dinners and the support of a college advisor. For those who live in Oxford, the colleges can also offer a wonderful social network, and St Catz now has its own budding MBCT student group.

In terms of content, the course offers the opportunity to gain a deep knowledge and understanding of Cognitive Therapy and Buddhist Psychology. There is also a strong emphasis on gaining knowledge of MBCT from the inside, through experiential practice and reflection on this practice, and an equally strong emphasis on learning how to be an instructor, on learning how to teach. There are five assignments to complete: two essays, a piece of reflective analysis, a dissertation, and finally a teaching project.