The BSc (Hons) in Psychology with Counselling is designed for individuals aiming to pursue a degree in psychology and work in counselling after graduation. This program provides eligibility for the British Psychological Society’s independent route to training as a counselling psychologist and supports applications for a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology or other counselling and wellbeing-related qualifications.
Course Overview:
Counselling is a branch of psychology that emphasizes a person-centred approach, helping individuals explore their experiences and develop strategies to address maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. Counsellors work in various professional settings, including for-profit and non-profit organizations, government departments, and private practice. In this program, you will study key areas of psychology, such as social, cognitive, biological, and developmental psychology, as well as research methods. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to take specialized modules, including Counselling Psychology, Core Counselling Skills, Health and Psychological Well-being, Psychological Assessment, and Managing the Therapeutic Process.
This specialized undergraduate counselling course offers numerous career and study options for the future. You will benefit from modern digital learning tools and receive full support from a dedicated academic team comprised of respected industry practitioners, published authors, and PhD holders in the field of psychology.
Course Details and Modules
In this program, you’ll study subject modules specifically designed to help you develop career-focused skills in professional counselling. Your studies will culminate in selecting a specific area of counselling practice for your research project in your final year. By graduation, you’ll have the confidence and ability to apply your knowledge of psychology to various exciting career paths and further learning opportunities.
Throughout the course, you’ll receive one-to-one support from lecturers and academic skills tutors, along with invitations to online coffee mornings with fellow students and staff, as well as personal academic tutor sessions. You will also have opportunities to develop industry links and networks by attending sessions with guest speakers from diverse fields, including the fire service, policing, and healthcare. The academic team, coming from various professional and cultural backgrounds, will guide you in applying your new skills in real-world contexts.
Academic Experience
In this program, you’ll be taught by a diverse range of psychology experts. Many faculty members are active researchers who have published in academic journals, presented at national and international conferences, and authored book chapters on applied psychology. The team also includes former and current practitioners with expertise in applying psychology in various contexts, such as organizational, educational, prison, healthcare, and clinical settings. Overall, the team is highly engaged in the professional psychology community, running workshops and participating in charitable events for organizations like MIND.
Modules
You have 3-9 years to complete this course, allowing up to 3 years for each level. Most students aim to finish within 3 to 6 years.
Level 4
– Introduction to Studying Psychology (20 credits)
– Social Psychology (20 credits)
– Exploring Research in Psychology (20 credits)
– Developmental Psychology (20 credits)
– Biological Psychology (20 credits)
– Cognitive Psychology (20 credits)
Level 5
– Qualitative Research Methods (20 credits)
– Quantitative Research Methods (20 credits)
– Positive Psychology (20 credits)
– Personality and Intelligence (20 credits)
– Approaches to Counselling Psychology (20 credits)
– Core Counselling Skills (20 credits)
Level 6
– Health and Psychological Well-being (20 credits)
– Psychological Assessment and Formulation (20 credits)
– Counselling Psychology, Mental Health and Illness (20 credits)
– Managing the Therapeutic Process (20 credits)
– Counselling Research Project (40 credits)
Assessment Methods
Unlike traditional degree programs, this course does not require you to sit through exams. Assessments are designed to help you apply your learning to real-world scenarios, better preparing you for your professional role after graduation.
Throughout the course, you will complete a variety of assessment methods, including individual reports, case study analyses, role-plays, group presentations, and reflective assignments created in consultation with your module leader. These assessments emphasize personal discovery, the application of theory to practice, and innovative thinking.
The assessments are designed to be engaging and provide key transferable skills that employers seek. You will only sit one exam to fulfill research methods requirements; all other assessments focus on equipping you with practical skills.
Role-play sessions are a key feature, offering the chance to practice real-life counselling situations in a safe environment. Guided by your lecturer, these sessions will allow you to evaluate your decisions and receive constructive feedback from peers and academic staff.
Entry Requirements
Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. If you have significant work experience, qualifications from other institutions, or a degree that doesn’t directly align with this program, we are open to discussing your application.
What You Need to Study
Our goal is to make learning accessible and flexible. To study this degree, you will need a laptop or desktop PC (preferably running the latest version of Windows) and a reliable internet connection. If you are using a Chromebook, ensure it was released in 2020 or later, as only these models support Jamovi, which is essential for the statistical components of the course. Through our online learning platform, you’ll access your course calendar, support services, learning materials, and a comprehensive online library with thousands of eBooks. You’ll also have tools for creating assignments, taking notes, and collaborating with fellow students.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling course, you must have:
– Passes at grade C or above in three subjects, including mathematics, at GCSE level or an academic equivalent. If you do not have a GCSE or equivalent in mathematics, you are strongly encouraged to complete an assessment-free module before starting the course as a substitute.
– A minimum of 12 months of relevant work experience may also be considered. A personal statement demonstrating your ability to undertake the course, along with references and evidence of your previous work experience, will be required.
English Proficiency
You will need to demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
– IELTS 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in any element)
– TOEFL iBT 80 or equivalent
Alternatively, a letter confirming that your previous studies were conducted in English can be accepted. For applicants who cannot provide the above evidence, we offer an internal English test. Additionally, an internal mathematics module is available for those who do not hold a qualification at the required level or wish to refresh their skills in that area.
Career Prospects
A specialized degree in psychology with counselling demonstrates your dedication to a career in professional practice. This program equips you with a diverse set of knowledge, skills, and competencies, empowering you to apply your learning with confidence in your future role as a counsellor.
Industry Skills
The subjects covered in this course emphasize a global perspective, making them relevant worldwide. Moving away from the Western-centric approach of many undergraduate psychology programs and aligned with BPS accreditation, this degree offers a cross-cultural viewpoint. It is internationally recognized, equipping you with experience and knowledge that you can apply in your home country.
What Will the BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling Do for Me?
Input from professionals such as counselling psychologists, clinical psychologists, psychology practitioners, the fire service, independent consultants, and alumni has shaped the development of this course. As a result, the content is tailored to address current skills gaps across various careers and professions worldwide.
With a diverse selection of topics and skills to master, you’ll graduate with comprehensive knowledge of modern counselling theory and practice, including:
– Effective communication in challenging situations
– Data retrieval, comprehension, and application
– Proper handling of primary source material
– Problem-solving and scientific reasoning
– Critical judgment and evaluation
– Sensitivity to interpersonal factors
– Approaches to talking and listening in counselling
– Responsiveness to feedback
What Can I Do After Graduation?
Upon completing your BSc in Psychology with Counselling, you will have gained a range of specialized skills that showcase your commitment to a career in counselling.
Graduates have the option to pursue further qualifications in counselling, such as psychotherapy or Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT). This program also provides eligibility for training as a counselling psychologist or to apply for a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology.
The average salary for a counselling psychologist in the UK is £62,042 (as sourced from Reed Salary Tracker on November 20, 2023).
In addition to counselling roles, you’ll possess skills applicable to various career paths, including:
– Support Worker
– Nursing
– Mental Health Professional
– Human Resource Manager
– Careers Adviser
– Journalist
– Marketing/Advertising
– Police Officer
– Social Work