The IGNOU MCFTP 2 Project is a compulsory part of the MSCCFT programme and most students struggle to understand what exactly is expected. In simple terms, MCFTP 2 involves choosing a counselling or family therapy related topic, getting a synopsis approved, doing practical or case based work, and submitting everything in the form of a dissertation as per IGNOU guidelines. It is not just theory on paper. This project checks whether a student can apply counselling concepts in real situations.
What is IGNOU MCFTP 2 Project in MSCCFT
MCFTP 2 is the project and dissertation component of the MSCCFT programme. It is designed to test whether you can apply counselling and family therapy concepts in a practical and research oriented way.
Unlike assignments, this project is not about copying theory or rewriting notes. IGNOU expects you to demonstrate basic research understanding, case analysis skills, and ethical awareness.
The project usually includes
selection of a relevant topic
preparation of a synopsis
conducting field work or case based study
writing a structured dissertation
submission as per IGNOU guidelines
Many students misunderstand MCFTP 2 as only a case study. That is not always true. It can include case work, intervention based study, survey based research, or qualitative analysis depending on your topic.
Difference Between Project and Dissertation in MCFTP 2
IGNOU often uses the words project and dissertation together, which creates confusion.
In simple terms
The project refers to the overall practical work you do.
The dissertation is the written report that documents this work.
So when students say MCFTP 2 project, they are usually talking about the full dissertation file that gets submitted.
There is no separate submission for project and dissertation. It is one combined academic document.
Importance of MCFTP 2 in Final Result
MCFTP 2 carries significant weight in your MSCCFT programme. A weak project can affect your final performance even if your theory papers are strong.
Also, this is the only part of the course where IGNOU evaluates your ability to think independently. Evaluators can easily identify copied or poorly structured work.
That is why rushing or using generic content often backfires.
How to Select a Topic for IGNOU MCFTP 2 Project
Topic selection is where most problems start.
A good topic should be
related to counselling or family therapy
realistic to complete within time
aligned with your access to cases or respondents
simple enough to explain in writing
Avoid very broad topics. Avoid topics that require heavy clinical infrastructure unless you already have access.
Examples of commonly accepted topic areas include
marital conflict counselling
family stress and coping strategies
parenting issues
adolescent behavioural problems
substance abuse impact on family
counselling interventions in family settings
Your topic does not need to sound impressive. It needs to be workable.
Synopsis Preparation for MCFTP 2
The synopsis is a short proposal that explains what you plan to study.
IGNOU generally expects the synopsis to include
title of the study
objectives
brief rationale
methodology
sample or case details
tools used
expected outcomes
This stage is critical. If your synopsis is unclear or unrealistic, approval gets delayed.
Many students lose months here simply because they submit vague objectives or copied methodology.
Write the synopsis in your own understanding. Simple language works better than academic show off.
Structure of IGNOU MCFTP 2 Dissertation
Once your synopsis is approved, you move to the main dissertation.
While exact formats may vary slightly, a standard structure includes the following chapters.
Chapter 1 Introduction
This explains the background of the problem. Why the topic matters. What made you choose it. Basic context of counselling or family therapy related to your study.
Chapter 2 Review of Literature
This includes previous studies, books, and articles related to your topic. Do not overdo it. IGNOU does not expect a PhD level review.
Chapter 3 Research Methodology
This is where you explain
research design
sample or cases
tools used
data collection process
ethical considerations
Keep it honest. Do not claim methods you did not use.
Chapter 4 Analysis and Findings
Here you present what you observed, measured, or analysed. This may include tables, case descriptions, or thematic analysis depending on your study.
Chapter 5 Discussion and Conclusion
This connects your findings with objectives. What you learned. What worked. What did not. Limitations are okay to mention.
References and Appendices
Include proper references and any tools or questionnaires used.
Common Mistakes in MCFTP 2 Project
Based on real evaluation patterns, these are mistakes students often make.
copying dissertations from seniors
choosing topics without access to data
writing theory heavy content with no practical link
fake case studies
inconsistent objectives and findings
ignoring ethical consent
IGNOU evaluators may not contact you, but they do read patterns. Generic work stands out very quickly.
Practical Tips to Complete MCFTP 2 Smoothly
Start early. Even if slowly.
Keep your topic simple.
Maintain one notebook for project related notes.
Write chapter by chapter instead of all at once.
Do not wait for perfection. Clarity matters more.
If you are working or managing family responsibilities, plan realistically. This project does not need daily hours, but it needs consistency.
Submission Process for IGNOU MCFTP 2
The final dissertation is submitted as per instructions from your study centre or regional centre.
Always check
latest submission dates
hard copy or online requirement
number of copies
supervisor signatures if required
Missing a small instruction can delay evaluation
Final Words for MSCCFT Students
The IGNOU MCFTP 2 Project and Dissertation is not meant to scare you. It is meant to show that you understand counselling beyond textbooks.
You do not need perfect English. You do not need complicated statistics. You need honesty, effort, and basic structure.
If you treat it like a real learning process instead of a burden, it becomes manageable.
And once it is done, there is genuine relief. Every MSCCFT student feels it.