Sexology is a field that deals with the study and understanding of human sexuality. In a country as diverse and culturally rich as India, sexual health and well-being have become increasingly important topics of discussion. With a growing awareness of the significance of sexual health, the demand for qualified sexologists is on the rise. This article explores the diploma in sexology in India and the educational path to becoming a sexologist.
The CICS two-year Diploma in Clinical Sexology and Relationship Therapy comprises Years 2 and 3 of Qualification Pathway 1 and Years 1 and 2 of Qualification Pathway 2.
The course covers the combined bio-psycho-social dimensions of sexual and relationship health and wellbeing. It has been designed to ensure that, by the end of the programme, our graduates have a solid foundation of comprehensive knowledge and skills for confident therapeutic practice with psychosexual and relationship problems.
Gender, sexual, relationship and cultural diversity are fully integrated into all aspects of the course.
Our course is accredited by the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists, meaning that it meets the stringent requirements of the UK’s largest accrediting body for sex and relationship therapists, and leads to COSRT Registration.
The therapeutic theoretical orientation of the course is “pluralism”. Pluralism is an emerging way of thinking about therapy, based on the fundamental assumption that no one therapeutic approach has the monopoly on understanding the causes of distress or on the most helpful therapeutic responses. Instead, it suggests that different clients are likely to want, and benefit from, different things in therapy. We teach a range of contemporary approaches to therapy, to best serve each unique client, whilst maintaining the centrality of the client, relational working and research based practice.
We take a blended learning approach to all of our courses, combining comprehensive home study materials with live practice based, experiential training days.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be fully qualified counsellors or have counselling training to a minimum CPCAB Level 3 and be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient counselling and academic competencies to enable them to meet the demands of the course.
Applicants without formal training in counselling are invited to apply for the CICS Foundation Certificate in Counselling Skills and Practice.
Applicants without a diploma in counselling will be required to complete a supplementary section to the Evidence of Learning Portfolio to demonstrate counselling, boundary and risk management skills.
- All students must become student members of the COSRT. We arrange this when a formal offer has been made.
- All students must have an Enhanced DBS check which CICS can facilitate.
- All students must complete 50 hours of personal therapy, 20 hours of which must be during the course.
2024 Course Intake Dates
The March 2024 course runs monthly on Fridays and Saturdays, 10am to 5pm. This is a fully online access course.
- 22/23 Mar 2024 – Introducing Clinical Sexology
- 26/27 Apr 2024 – Biology and Sexual Medicine
- 31 May/1 Jun 2024 – A Pluralistic Approach to Clinical Sexology: Key Skills
- 28/29 Jun 2024 – Working with Sexual Function Problems Part 1: AFAB
- 26/27 Jul 2024 – Working with Sexual Function Problems Part 2: AMAB
- 27/28 Sept 2024 – Working with Sexual Function Problems Part 3: Trans and Nonbinary
- 25/26 Oct 2024 – Working with Compulsive Sexual Behaviours
- 22/23 Nov 2024 – Working with Kink Sexualities
- 24/25 Jan 2025 – Sexual Health and Fertility Matters
- 21/22 Feb 2025 – Cultural Diversity and Sex Therapy: Disability and Sex Therapy
- 28/29 Mar 2025 – Intimate Partner Therapy 1: Relationships and the Law: Theories of Love and Contemporary Theories of Relationships
- 25/26 Apr 2025 – Intimate Partner Therapy 2: Principles, Approaches and Practices
- 23/24 May 2025 – Intimate Partner Therapy 3: Relationship Diversity: Working with Affairs
- 27/28 Jun 2025 – Intimate Partner Therapy 4: Working with Sexual Themes
- 26/27 Sept 2025 – Sexual Offending Against Children
- 24/25 Oct 2025 – Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence
- 28/29 Nov 2025 – Working with Sexual Trauma and Shame
- 23/24 Jan 2026 – Assessments and Endings
- 20th Mar 2026 – Case Study Submission
Course Assessment
Assessment is continuous and comprises of both written and observed assessment protocols.
- Evidence of Learning Portfolio and Reflective Practice
Throughout the course students complete Evidence of Learning and Reflection submissions to demonstrate their understanding and integration of the course materials. - Case Study
Students are required to complete a comprehensive, 4000-word case study to demonstrate the application of their learning into safe, supervised clinical practice. - Assessment
At the end of the teaching period of the course, students submit two video recordings of themselves in one mock in person and one mock online session. - Clinical Practice
To be awarded the CICS Diploma in Clinical Sexology, students must complete twelve months of clinical practice with a minimum of 150 hours of clinical practice supervised at a ratio of 1:6, covering the full range of sexual and relationship presentations, including sufficient intimate partner therapy work to satisfy the course director and supervisor of their competencies to practise.
Qualification Pathways
Following successful completion of the CICS diploma, students will be eligible for the COSRT Register and can work as qualified sex and relationship therapists.
Fees
The total course fee is £7,800 including VAT for the full two-year programme and all home study materials. A non-refundable deposit of £600 is payable on acceptance of a place. The balance is then paid in 24 equal monthly payments of £300.
Which Degree is Best for a Sexologist?
Sexology is an interdisciplinary field, and individuals interested in pursuing a career in sexology can choose from a variety of educational paths. The most common degrees that can pave the way for a career in sexology include:
- Master’s Degree in Sexology: This is the most direct and specialized path to becoming a sexologist. Universities in India and around the world offer Master’s programs in sexology, which cover a wide range of topics related to human sexuality, including psychology, biology, sociology, and ethics.
- Psychology or Counseling Degrees: Many sexologists have a background in psychology or counseling. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in psychology or a related field can provide a solid foundation for understanding the psychological aspects of human sexuality.
- Medical Degrees: Some sexologists are medical doctors who have chosen to specialize in sexual medicine. This path typically involves completing medical school and then pursuing additional training in sexology.
- Social Work or Sociology Degrees: Social workers and sociologists also contribute to the field of sexology, particularly in research and community-based work.
In India, there is no specific bachelor’s degree in sexology, so individuals interested in this field often pursue one of the above-mentioned degrees before seeking additional training or certification in sexology.
How Many Years is Sexology?
The duration of your education in sexology depends on the path you choose. Here’s a breakdown:
- Master’s Degree in Sexology: A Master’s program typically takes two years to complete. However, if you’re pursuing a related degree before specializing in sexology, it can take longer.
- Psychology or Counseling Degrees: A Bachelor’s degree in psychology typically takes three years, while a Master’s degree takes an additional two years.
- Medical Degrees: Becoming a medical doctor can take anywhere from 5 to 7 years of education (including a bachelor’s degree).
- Social Work or Sociology Degrees: A Bachelor’s degree takes three years, and a Master’s degree takes an additional two years.
In addition to formal education, sexologists often engage in ongoing professional development to stay updated on the latest research and treatment methods.
Who is the Best Sexologist in Pakistan?
Pakistan, like many other countries, has its own prominent figures in the field of sexology. Determining who the “best” sexologist is can be subjective, as it depends on individual needs and preferences. Some renowned sexologists in Pakistan include:
- Dr. Najam Khawaja: A respected sexologist in Pakistan, Dr. Khawaja has been working in the field for many years and is known for his expertise in sexual health.
- Dr. Zia Ullah Khan: Another prominent sexologist, Dr. Zia Ullah Khan, has been actively working to address various sexual health issues in the country.
- Dr. Fawad Mian: Dr. Mian is a well-known consultant psychiatrist and psychosexual therapist who deals with a wide range of sexual health issues.
It’s important to research and choose a sexologist who is licensed, experienced, and specializes in the specific area of sexual health that you need assistance with.
Is Sexology a Profession?
Yes, sexology is a recognized and legitimate profession. It involves the scientific study of human sexuality, including its physiological, psychological, and sociological aspects. Sexologists work in various capacities, including clinical practice, research, education, and counseling. They play a crucial role in addressing and improving sexual health and well-being, which has a significant impact on overall quality of life.
In conclusion, the path to becoming a sexologist in India involves various educational routes, including specialized Master’s programs, degrees in psychology or counseling, medical training, and social work or sociology degrees. The duration of education varies depending on the chosen path. In Pakistan, there are several well-known sexologists who have made significant contributions to the field, and sexology is indeed a recognized and respected profession that focuses on improving sexual health and well-being. As society continues to evolve, the importance of sexology in promoting a healthy understanding of human sexuality remains paramount.
