National Requirements Bulgaria

21-04-2023

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    • Psychology Education

    In Bulgaria, education in psychology is available at bachelor’s degree level, master’s degree level and at doctoral degree level. A bachelor’s degree in psychology does not qualify an individual to apply for the EuroPsy. According to EuroPsy regulation, in order to work independently, the individual must have a master’s degree and one year of  supervised practice. However, according to Bulgaria’s national requirements it is possible to practice Psychology independently with a master’s degree level and above. A bachelor’s degree in psychology qualifies an individual to work under supervision by someone who is at a master’s degree level.

    • University Programmes that meet the EuroPsy requirements

    There are eight universities in Bulgaria that provide all three qualifications in psychology.

    Sofia University-Sofia
    New Bulgarian University-Sofia
    University of Plovdiv-Plovdiv
    Southwestern University-Blagoevgrad
    University of Veliko Tarnovo-Veliko
    Tarnovo Varna Free University-Varna
    Burgas Free University-Burgas

    • Supervised practice arrangements

    There are supervision arrangements made for psychotherapists, this is arranged by the school of psychotherapy the individual is attending. Students studying at bachelor’s or master’s degree level in psychology who undertake an internship, receive supervision while on the internship.  

    • Arrangements for training of supervisors

    Arrangements for training of supervisors vary across universities. Standardising the content of such training is currently in development.

    • Recognition of title

    There is no regulation over the title of psychology in Bulgaria.

    • Licence to practice

    One can practice unsupervised without a master’s degree qualification in psychology.

    • Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

    CPD is not currently regulated at a national level in Bulgaria. However, there are rich opportunities for postgraduate studies in universities and private companies for psychologists to develop their professional practice. Some examples recognised by the BPS include: (a) an educational qualification acquired from a licensed educational source; b) an educational qualification acquired from an unlicensed educational source; c) participation in conferences, seminars, refresher courses; d) traineeships, volunteering; e) self-education.