Philosophical Counselling and Consultancy Timisoara
The first program of this kind in Romania and the only one conducted in English in Europe, the international master’s university study program Philosophical counseling and consultancy it will take place, in English, with training specialists from other countries (Great Britain, the United States, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, etc.).
The program provides applied theoretical knowledge and skills to use appropriate tools and methodologies to support individuals or groups facing existential, relational, ethical and decision-making issues in their individual experience or in social and professional contexts. The level of demand practiced by teachers and the large number of collaborating experts abroad is high (according to Western standards), which explains the not always very high percentages of passability and graduation.
Philosophical counseling and counseling is increasingly being applied in civilized countries to an ever-widening spectrum of issues that have generated professions, from ethical counseling, in business, communities, and facilitation in children’s philosophy, to that which addresses the strictly individual problems of clients that often involve a rethinking of their values and beliefs through the use of methods of rational conflict resolution based on critical-analytical, argumentative and dialogical tools specific to philosophy.
Field of study
The university study cycle
Accreditation status
Form of education
Language of instruction
- 2 Years / Onsite
- Intakes: Jun, Sep
Overview
Framing the study program in fields of science
- The fundamental field: Humanities and arts
- The branch of science: Philosophy
- Wide domain according to the international classification ISCED F-2013: Humanities and arts
- Restricted domain according to the international classification ISCED F-2013: Humanities
- Detailed field according to the international classification ISCED F-2013: Philosophy and ethics
Location: Timisoara
Qualification details
- The name of the qualification acquired through the study program: Philosophical advisor
- Qualification level format *: 7
- Awarded title: Master in Philosophy
Program details
- Duration of the study program: 2 years
- Number of credits **: 120
- Maximum number of students that can be enrolled : 50
- Seats financed from the state budget :12
- Paid places: 38
- Annual tuition fee: EU students €804
Non-EU students €1980
Career Opportunities
- Philosopher
- Research assistant in philosophy
- Philosophical advisor
Program Learning Outcomes
a) Knowledge:
1. Advanced knowledge of the theoretical and historical foundations of philosophy: presuppositions, principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking and practices
2. The complex understanding and use of language specific to logical, critical and reflective thinking
3. The ability to explain one’s own premises, respectively the logical operations undertaken
4. The ability to interpret and explain in an accessible form complex arguments
5. Knowing, understanding and achieving inter-human and intercultural mediation by identifying, analyzing and solving problems located at the confluence of these fields
6. Knowledge of the main theories and practices in the field of philosophical counseling
7. Explanation of the most important theories and practices in the field of philosophical counseling
8. Knowledge of the main cognitive tools of the discipline
9. Knowledge of theoretical notions related to the social role of philosophy applied in practice;
10. Understanding the mechanisms of manipulation, disinformation, propaganda in a social and media context
11. Knowledge of the specific concepts of intellectual property legislation, relevant for research and the practice of philosophical counseling
12. Explanation and correct interpretation of the theoretical aspects relevant to the current public debates on the management of intellectual property
13. Knowledge of the relevant legal norms for counseling activities
14. Understanding intellectual property rights in European and national law
15. Understanding how ethics is applied in research related to the practice of philosophical counseling
16. Knowledge of the fundamentals of academic writing
17. Knowing the characteristics, methods, contents and communication skills that facilitate effective counseling
18. Understanding the ways of using language specific to the concepts, theories and principles addressed in the theoretical and practical contents of the discipline
19. Knowledge of the procedures specific to the counseling and philosophical consultation process
20. Knowing the categories of problems that can be the object of philosophical counseling
21. The ability to interpret the various methods of approaching and analyzing discourse in counselling.
22. Understanding the main concepts specific to the field and using them alongside specialized terminology in multiple situations.
23. Understanding and using the language necessary for the formulation of hypotheses, the operationalization of concepts, the development of ways of solving clients’ problems through critical thinking.
24. Understanding and using the concepts, theories, paradigms and methodologies used in the critical analysis of philosophical counseling approaches
25. To explain specific critical thinking tools regarding the development of options and solutions in counseling
26. To interpret the methods of critical thinking in the direction of solving problems and making decisions, to put into action the necessary critical thinking skills
27. Knowing the stages of the counseling process
28. Knowledge of the techniques used in the counseling process
29. Knowledge of the main directions of approaching clients’ problems in philosophical counseling
30. Knowledge of ethical theories relevant to counselling
31. To explain the main ethical concepts and their use alongside specialist terms in multiple philosophical counseling situations.
32. Specific interpretation of various general methods of ethical analysis in counseling.
33. Explaining the ways to solve problems in counseling on an ethical basis.
34. Knowledge of effective dialogue types, methods and techniques specific to philosophical counseling.
35. To explain the appropriate methods of facilitation in counseling processes.
36. Know ways to formulate hypotheses and operationalize concepts intended to facilitate finding solutions to customer problems
37. To understand the concepts, theories, paradigms and methodologies used in the logical analysis of the reasonings of philosophical counseling clients.
38. To understand the specific tools of dialogic logic necessary to facilitate the finding of solutions in philosophical counseling
39. To explain the appropriate tools and dialogic methods for developing a counseling facilitation strategy
40. Knowledge of techniques for promoting the profession of philosophical advisor.
41. The ability to use the language of promoting the profession of philosophical advisor
42. Knowledge of the code of ethics and deontology of the profession of philosophical advisor.
43. Understanding and specific use of information system language required for online communication with philosophical counseling clients
44. General knowledge of alternative counseling methods.
45. Knowing the particularities of the specialized use of various types of media in philosophical counseling
46. Interpretation in the specific context of philosophical counseling of the main theories regarding the segmentation of the target audience of potential clients of this form of counseling
47. Understanding and correct use of specific notions for the design of a dissertation work
48. Knowing how to identify informational resources appropriate to the theme of the dissertation work in bibliographic, opaque databases offered by libraries, using the Moodle platform for authentication, enrollment for the dissertation work;
49. Knowledge of the necessary operations on the Turnitin platform to check the degree of similarity of the written text
50. Knowledge of the most effective types, methods and techniques of research specific to the field
51. Explaining multidisciplinary approaches to the counseling process
52. Understanding the characteristics, methods, contents and communication skills that facilitate philosophical counseling and consultation.
53. Knowledge of factual situations that can lead to problems that can be addressed with the help of philosophical counseling.
b) Skills:
1. The capacity for critical and constructive reflection on the most important theories and practices in the field of philosophical counseling
2. The ability to apply to counseling situations the language, methodologies and specialized knowledge in the field of counseling and philosophical consultation
3. The ability to transfer the acquired knowledge and to apply it creatively and innovatively in solving complex problems raised by conflict management
4. Ability to solve problems and transfer knowledge in order to clarify and achieve counseling objectives
5. The ability to apply the thinking skills necessary for the specific facilitation of philosophical counseling.
6. The capacity for critical and constructive reflection in assisting the personal development of others
7. Creative and innovative application of theoretical knowledge aimed at assertively persuading the interlocutor / interlocutors
8. Application of effective dialogue types, methods and techniques specific to philosophical counseling.
9. The ability to apply the main cognitive tools of the discipline
10. The ability to apply theoretical notions related to the social role of philosophy applied in practice;
11. The ability to transfer the concepts specific to the legislation in the field of intellectual property in the field of research and the practice of philosophical counseling
12. Correct application of principles relevant to current public debates on intellectual property management
13. Application in the field of philosophical counseling of the provisions regarding intellectual property from European and national law
14. Application of the norms, principles, and values of research ethics in studies about the practice of philosophical counseling
15. The ability to apply the fundamental elements of academic writing in written works
16. The ability to transfer knowledge about methods, contents and communication skills that facilitate effective counseling in concrete situations
17. Creativity in implementing in practice the theories and principles addressed in the theoretical and practical contents of the discipline
18. The capacity for innovative transfer in different particular contexts of the general specific procedures of the philosophical counseling and consultation process
19. The ability to apply various methods of approaching and analyzing discourse in counselling.
20. The capacity for critical and constructive reflection on the main concepts specific to the field in order to apply them in multiple situations.
21. Creativity in the formulation of hypotheses, the operationalization of concepts, the development of ways of solving customer problems through critical thinking.
22. The capacity for critical and constructive reflection on the theories, paradigms and methodologies used in the critical analysis of philosophical counseling approaches
23. The ability to apply innovative tools specific to critical thinking with the aim of developing counseling solutions
24. Creative use of critical thinking methods in problem solving and decision making
25. The ability to transfer knowledge about the techniques used in the counseling process in solving concrete problems of philosophical counseling
26. The ability to implement innovative concepts, theories and main approaches in counseling in various particular contexts
27. The ability to apply the principles and values of ethics and academic integrity in the counseling field
28. The ability to apply ethical theories relevant to counseling in philosophical counseling
29. The ability to apply the main ethical concepts, together with the specialized terms from philosophical counseling in its multiple situations.
30. The ability to transfer to specific situations of philosophical counseling the various general methods of ethical analysis in counseling.
31. The creative derivation of new effective types, methods and techniques of dialogue specific to philosophical counseling.
32. The ability to transfer general methods of intervention in counseling processes in concrete situations.
33. Innovative instrumentation of ways to formulate hypotheses, to operationalize concepts, to facilitate finding solutions to customer problems
34. Constructive reflection on the concepts, theories, paradigms and methodologies used in the logical analysis of the reasoning of philosophical counseling clients.
35. Constructive reflection on the specific tools of dialogic logic necessary to facilitate the finding of solutions in philosophical counseling
36. The creative use of appropriate tools and dialogic methods for the development of counseling facilitation strategies
37. Application of techniques to promote the profession of philosophical advisor.
38. Application of the language of promotion of the profession of philosophical advisor
39. Application of the code of ethics and deontology of the profession of philosophical advisor.
40. The ability to creatively use the language of the information system necessary for online communication with clients of philosophical counseling
41. The capacity for critical and constructive reflection on alternative counseling methods.
42. Transferability in philosophical counseling of knowledge regarding the specialized use of various types of media
43. The ability to correctly apply the notions specific to the design of a dissertation work
44. Applying the methods of identifying informational resources appropriate to the theme of the dissertation work in bibliographic, opaque databases provided by libraries, using the Moodle platform for authentication, enrollment for the dissertation work;
45. The ability to apply the knowledge of the necessary operations on the Turnitin platform for checking the degree of similarity of the written text
46. Critical reflection on the types, methods and techniques of research specific to the field
47. The ability to transfer knowledge regarding multidisciplinary approaches to the counseling process in solving problems specific to philosophical counseling
48. The ability to apply methods, contents and communication skills that facilitate counseling and philosophical consultation.
49. Critical reflection on factual situations that can lead to problems that can be addressed with the help of philosophical counseling.
c) Responsibility and autonomy:
1. Integration of acquired knowledge responsibly oriented towards meeting the needs of the community in general, of the team of collaborators in particular
2. The capacity for autonomous intervention through empathy and assertive communication in concrete situations to facilitate clients in counseling
3. Responsible cultivation of an attitude of solidarity with the beneficiaries of counseling services, professional colleagues and in teamwork
4. Management of concrete decision-making situations based on the acquired values of the discipline
5. The autonomous approach, in a realistic way – with both theoretical argumentation and practical expertise, of some problem-situations with a high degree of complexity, with a view to their efficient and deontological solution.
6. Application of efficient work techniques in the multidisciplinary team with the fulfillment of coordination tasks on various levels
7. The objective and continuous self-assessment of one’s own need for professional training and the prospects for professional development at the workplace and in other workplaces on the labor market
8. To respect the letter and spirit of the national and European laws regarding intellectual property in the professional counseling process
9. To appreciate the work of authors/researchers in the field of philosophical counseling and related helping professions
10. To show respect and openness to the tradition of free culture and open access to the sources of creative communities
11. To disapprove and discourage, through conclusive arguments, the incorrect taking over of the work results of other authors
12. Respect and integration in one’s own activity of the ethical and deontological norms of the profession of philosophical advisor
13. Demonstrating objectivity in reasoning and interventions, rigor and scientific correctness
14. The ability to present, with arguments adapted to concrete situations, the benefits of solving clients’ problems through philosophical counseling
15. The ability to share, whenever deemed necessary, knowledge, experiences and informational resources, using the appropriate channels of professional communication
16. The ability to adapt conceptual-technical and strategic tools offered by critical thinking, taking into account deontology and social responsibility.
17. Getting familiar with and fulfilling the roles and activities specific to teamwork and the distribution of tasks for subordinate levels.
18. To perform professional tasks responsibly, under conditions of limited autonomy and qualified assistance
19. To apply effective work techniques in a multidisciplinary team with the performance of certain tasks on hierarchical levels.
20. Independent resolution of an individual, group or organizational counseling or consulting problem in the role of a philosophical advisor
21. To flexibly adapt conceptual-technical and strategic tools, taking into account ethical norms and social responsibility.
22. To use effectively and constantly the learning resources and techniques acquired during the master’s studies, for personal and professional development.
23. To efficiently and sustainably use theoretical resources and philosophical counseling techniques for personal and professional development.
24. Analytical and critical thinking compatible with the autonomous interpretation of current events.
25. Unconstrained compliance with certain delivery deadlines.
26. Ability to select and critically evaluate bibliographic information, respecting the norms of intellectual property.
27. Autonomous evaluation of concrete situations encountered in the case study chosen for the dissertation work.
28. Recognition of the need for permanent consultation of reference documents, as well as consultation with specialists in the field of the dissertation topic.
29. Participation, on one’s own initiative, with specialized presentations, at professional and scientific events.
Programme
Psychoanalytic phenomenology applied in clinical practice
Philosophical tools of argumentation, deliberation and critical reasoning
Philosophy as a way of life and spiritual practice
Foundations of counseling and psychotherapy
Philosophical Foundations of Counseling
Ethics and academic integrity
Foundations of philosophy of mind
Care and responsibility ethics
Theory and practice of philosophical counseling
Theistic philosophical counseling
Pragmatics and techniques of communication
Applications of critical thinking in counseling and consultancy\
General principles of psychopathology and clinical semiology
Introduction to bioethics
Applied philosophy of interculturality
Philosophy with children
Philosophy in prisons
Practical works: Counseling skills
Practical works: Clinical observation
Practical works: Methodology of dissertation writing
Practical works: Supervised individual and group counseling
Practical works: Strategic communication
Description of the exam test (s)
Admission to master’s degree studies at the Faculty of Political Sciences, Philosophy and Communication Sciences is done by competitive examination, regardless of the form of education in which they are organized, based on the tests established by this regulation, in order to evaluate the skills specific to the field of study based on a bibliography including specialized works.
Probe admission: Interview
- The admission test consists of an interview which takes place at all master’s degree programs within the Faculty of Political Sciences, Philosophy and Communication Sciences. The interview is marked with accepted/rejected. The interview is thematic and aims to verify the minimum knowledge of the candidate in the field of study for which he is applying, according to Annex 4 to this regulation.
- The interview will be held online, and the candidates’ schedule will be announced the day before the admission test, through the e-mail address.
- The interview for admission to master’s degree programs conducted in an internationally spoken language will be conducted in the study language of the study program – Philosophical counseling and consultancy (in English). Knowledge of the study language of the master’s degree program is mandatory. If candidates hold a certificate of knowledge of the English language, minimum level B2, a copy of it will be uploaded to the online admission platform.
List of required documents
Documents required to register for the admission process:
Identity card (or passport or other identity document, for candidates who do not have Romanian citizenship);
Birth certificate;
Marriage certificate – if appropriate;
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent diploma and diploma supplementor certificate of graduation from undergraduate studies and transcript, for candidates graduating from undergraduate studies in the current year;UVT graduates of the current year’s undergraduate studies nu must upload the bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript to the admissions platform in order to apply for master’s degrees in the same year, the results of the final exam of the undergraduate studies being taken over in the candidate’s file directly by the admission commissions of the UVT faculties;
Medical certificate issued by the family doctor, not older than 90 days from the date of its submission to the document collection office, stating whether the candidate is fit to enroll in university studies and, if applicable, the chronic conditions of the candidate (neuropsychiatric , of psycho-pathological nature, pulmonary, dermato-venereal, handicap (type, degree) etc.). Specific learning disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, etc.) or any special educational requirements will be attested by a diagnostic certificate;
Certificate attesting to the completion of another master’s degree program (completed or not at the time of submitting the file), mentioning the funding regime in which it was completed (if it is carried out at a state higher education institution in Romania) – if appropriate.
Admission process calendar
Registration period: until 17.07, 12:00
Date of display of preliminary results: 17.07, 18:00, on www.pfc.uvt.ro and www.admitere.uvt.ro
Date of the admission test (s) (day, hour): 18.07, 15:00
Deadline for certification of documents according to the original – July: 18.07, 16:00
Date of results listing: 18.07, 19:00, on the pages pfc.uvt.ro and admitere.uvt.ro
Filing appeals period: until 19.07, at 19:00, at the email address: admitere.pfc@e-uvt.ro
Date of display of results after appeals: 19.07, 21:00, on the pages pfc.uvt.ro and admitere.uvt.ro
Seats confirmation period: 19.07, 21:01 – 24.07, 12:00.
Listing results after confirmations: 24.07, 14:00, on the pages pfc.uvt.ro and admitere.uvt.ro
Seats confirmation period (second stage of confirmations): 24.07, 15:00 – 26.07, 15:00
Date of display of results after confirmations (second stage of confirmations): 26.07 16:00
Place confirmation period (third stage of confirmations): 26.07 – 28.07
Final results listing: 28.07, 14:00, on the page www.pfc.uvt.ro
Schedule of the admission process for the September session (valid if seats remain available after the first admission session)
September registration period: until 09.09, 12:00
Date of posting of candidates registered in September: 09.09, 15:00, on the page www.pfc.uvt.ro
Date of taking the admission test (s) September: 10.09, 10:00
Deadline for certification of documents according to the original – September:10.09, 16:00
September results listing: 10.09, 18:00, on the pages pfc.uvt.ro and admitere.uvt.ro
Appeals period: until 11.09 18:00, at the email address: admitere.pfc@e-uvt.ro
Display of results after September appeals: 12.09, 10:00, on the pages pfc.uvt.ro and admitere.uvt.ro
September place confirmation period: 12.09, 10:01 – 13.09, 15:00
Listing results after confirmations: 13.09, 16:00, on the pages pfc.uvt.ro and admitere.uvt.ro
Seats confirmation period (second stage of confirmations) September: From 13.09, 16:01, until 14.09, 10:00
Date of display of results after confirmations (second stage of confirmations) September:
14.09, 12:00Place confirmation period (third confirmation stage) September: 14.09, 12:01 – 14:00
September final results listing: 14.09, 16:00
Contact us
Strada Florimund Mercy nr 2, ap 12, Timisoara, Romania

Philosophical Counselling and Consultancy Program at West University of Timișoara
The Philosophical Counselling and Consultancy master’s program at the West University of Timișoara (UVT) is a unique and innovative opportunity for students to explore the practical applications of philosophy in contemporary society. Offered by the Faculty of Letters, History, Philosophy, and Theology, this program prepares students to become skilled professionals capable of addressing complex personal, organizational, and societal issues using philosophical tools and frameworks.
Whether you are passionate about philosophical inquiry or looking for a way to integrate philosophy into real-world scenarios, this program offers a cutting-edge curriculum tailored to meet the demands of modern life.
About the Program
The Philosophical Counselling and Consultancy master’s program is designed for individuals who want to bridge the gap between theoretical philosophy and practical application. It emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and communication skills, equipping students to become consultants, advisors, and mediators in various professional fields.
Program Highlights:
- A focus on practical philosophy and its role in individual and organizational development.
- Training in philosophical dialogue, reflection, and counseling techniques.
- Interdisciplinary approaches, combining philosophy with psychology, ethics, communication, and management.
- Opportunities for internships and real-world projects with organizations and institutions.
- A multicultural academic environment with a focus on global trends in philosophical consultancy.
Curriculum and Course Structure
The program spans two years (four semesters) and combines theoretical courses, practical workshops, and research projects. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, gaining both foundational knowledge and specialized skills.
Core Courses:
- Philosophical Counseling Methods
- Explore the principles and techniques of one-on-one and group counseling.
- Learn how to address existential, ethical, and personal dilemmas.
- Ethical Consultancy
- Focus on moral dilemmas in professional settings.
- Develop strategies for ethical decision-making in organizations.
- Philosophy in Organizational Contexts
- Understand how philosophical frameworks can improve organizational culture and leadership.
- Study case studies in corporate ethics and team dynamics.
- Philosophy of Dialogue
- Learn the art of effective communication and conflict resolution through philosophical inquiry.
- Analyze how dialogue can be used to foster understanding and collaboration.
- Applied Philosophy and Public Engagement
- Investigate the role of philosophy in public discourse and media.
- Study ways to promote critical thinking and philosophical education in society.
Elective Courses:
Students can choose from a variety of electives, such as:
- Philosophy of Mind and Emotion
- Cross-Cultural Ethical Perspectives
- Mediation and Conflict Resolution
Practical Training:
- Students participate in internships and consultancy projects, gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings.
- Collaboration with local businesses, NGOs, and educational institutions allows students to apply their knowledge in diverse contexts.
Why Choose This Program?
The Philosophical Counselling and Consultancy program is one of the few master’s programs in Romania, and even in Europe, that focuses on the practical applications of philosophy. Here are some reasons why it stands out:
1. Practical Relevance:
The program moves beyond traditional academic philosophy by focusing on its practical use in addressing real-world challenges. Students gain the tools to provide guidance and support in areas such as personal development, ethical dilemmas, and organizational leadership.
2. Interdisciplinary Approach:
By integrating philosophy with psychology, communication, and business studies, the program equips students with a broad skill set that is highly valued in today’s job market.
3. Career Opportunities:
Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse career paths, including:
- Philosophical Counselor: Providing guidance to individuals facing existential or ethical challenges.
- Ethics Consultant: Assisting organizations in creating and implementing ethical policies.
- Mediator: Facilitating dialogue and resolving conflicts in professional or personal settings.
- Trainer or Educator: Teaching philosophy or critical thinking in academic or corporate environments.
4. Expert Faculty:
The program is led by experienced professors and practitioners who are passionate about philosophy and its role in society. Their guidance ensures that students receive a top-quality education tailored to their professional aspirations.
5. A Vibrant Academic Environment:
The West University of Timișoara is a hub of intellectual and cultural activity. With its multicultural student body, international partnerships, and modern facilities, the university provides an enriching environment for learning and personal growth.
Student Life and Opportunities
Workshops and Conferences:
Students are encouraged to participate in workshops, debates, and international conferences, where they can present their ideas and network with professionals in the field.
Internships and Collaborations:
Through partnerships with local and international organizations, students gain practical experience and insights into the role of philosophy in various sectors.
International Exchange Programs:
The university’s involvement in Erasmus+ and other exchange programs offers students the chance to study abroad and broaden their horizons.
Cultural and Social Life in Timișoara:
Timișoara, as a European Capital of Culture, offers a vibrant and dynamic setting for students. From cultural festivals to historical landmarks, the city provides countless opportunities for exploration and inspiration.
Admissions Process
Eligibility Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in philosophy or a related field (humanities, social sciences, etc.).
- Proficiency in English, as many courses are taught in this language.
Application Steps:
- Complete the online application form on the university’s official website.
- Submit required documents, including academic transcripts, a CV, and a letter of motivation.
- Attend an interview or written exam, if required.
Deadlines:
Prospective students are encouraged to check the official admissions page for up-to-date information on application deadlines and requirements.
Why Choose UVT and GlobalStudent?
For international students, GlobalStudent is the ideal partner to navigate the challenges of studying abroad. From visa assistance to part-time job placement, GlobalStudent ensures via GlobalWorker that students can focus on their studies and make the most of their time at UVT.
The Philosophical Counselling and Consultancy program at the West University of Timișoara is an innovative and transformative educational experience for students passionate about philosophy and its practical applications. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, expert faculty, and emphasis on real-world impact, the program prepares graduates to become leaders and change-makers in various professional fields.
Whether you aspire to guide individuals through life’s challenges, improve organizational ethics, or contribute to public discourse, this master’s program provides the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to achieve your goals. Join the West University of Timișoara and embark on a journey of intellectual growth and professional success!
How to Apply?
- You Apply
Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll help with the rest. Our convenient online application tool only takes 10 minutes to complete.
- We Connect
After you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you and will help you to complete the process.
- You Get Ready
Once you’ve completed your application and connected with an admissions representative, you’re ready to create your schedule.