Course Description

The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling degree is designed for individuals who aspire to understand human behaviour and pursue a professional career in counselling or psychology. This programme combines the core elements of psychology with specialised counselling training, allowing students to explore the scientific and theoretical foundations of the mind while developing practical therapeutic skills.

This course provides eligibility for enrolment on the British Psychological Society’s (BPS) independent route to training as a counselling psychologist and supports applications for a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology or other wellbeing-related qualifications.

Students will examine key areas of psychology, including social, cognitive, biological, and developmental psychology, alongside counselling-focused modules such as Counselling Psychology, Core Counselling Skills, Health and Psychological Well-being, Psychological Assessment, and Managing the Therapeutic Process.

Through a blend of academic knowledge and real-world application, this course equips students to apply psychological principles in diverse professional settings such as private practice, healthcare, education, and community organisations.

What You Will Learn

Students will gain a deep understanding of the psychological theories that underpin counselling practice, exploring both traditional and contemporary approaches to mental health and wellbeing. The curriculum covers:

  • Major areas of psychology, including cognitive, biological, social, and developmental perspectives

  • Key counselling methodologies, communication techniques, and therapeutic interventions

  • Research methods and data analysis skills essential for psychological inquiry

  • Practical counselling skills through role-play sessions and reflective practice

  • Ethical considerations, professional standards, and self-awareness in counselling practice

This programme encourages critical thinking, empathy, and professional competence, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to progress towards further study or counselling-related roles.

Why study this course?

  • Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), ensuring high academic and professional standards.

  • Provides eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) upon achieving a minimum of a 2:2 degree.

  • Offers flexible study options, available both online and at UK campuses in Birmingham, Leeds, London, and Manchester.

  • Delivered by experienced psychologists, researchers, and practitioners with extensive real-world expertise.

  • Focused on employability, equipping students with both academic knowledge and practical counselling skills valued by employers.

  • Provides comprehensive academic and personal support through dedicated tutors, online learning resources, and peer interaction.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

  • Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
  • International Baccalaureate
  • High School Level Qualifications
  • Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

Your exams have been developed to assist you in applying what you've learned in the classroom to real-world settings. This means you'll be more prepared to apply the skills you've learned on the course to your future professional career. As you progress through your course modules, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of beneficial assessment methods such as:

  • Individual written reports and reflective assignments

  • Case study analyses

  • Group presentations and discussions

  • Research projects and dissertations

  • Role-play sessions replicating real-world counselling scenarios

There are no traditional end-of-year examinations, except for one assessment in research methods. This approach ensures students can apply theoretical learning to realistic and professional contexts.

Modules

  • Introduction to Studying Psychology
  • Social Psychology
  • Exploring Research in Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Biological Psychology
  • Cognitive Psychology

  • Qualitative Research Methods
  • Quantitative Research Methods
  • Positive Psychology
  • Personality and Intelligence
  • Approaches to Counselling Psychology
  • Core Counselling Skills

  • Health and Psychological Well-being
  • Psychological Assessment and Formulation
  • Counselling Psychology, Mental Health and Illness
  • Managing the Therapeutic Process
  • Counselling Research Project

Study & Career Progression

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling degree will be equipped with a strong academic foundation and practical expertise applicable across a range of professions. The qualification provides eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society, enabling graduates to progress towards professional accreditation as a Chartered Counselling Psychologist.

Career opportunities include roles such as:

  • Counsellor or Psychotherapist

  • Mental Health Practitioner

  • Support Worker or Social Care Professional

  • Human Resource Manager

  • Careers Adviser

  • Health and Wellbeing Specialist

  • Police or Public Service Officer

Graduates may also choose to pursue postgraduate study, such as a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology, a Master’s in Psychotherapy, or further training in specialist counselling fields.

This degree’s global and cross-cultural focus ensures its relevance in both the UK and international professional settings, providing graduates with the knowledge and experience to contribute meaningfully to mental health and wellbeing worldwide.

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as
your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans
Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you
could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

  • Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
  • Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan,
    it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
  • Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course
    AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
  • Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled
    Students' Allowance if eligible.
  • Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't
    have to repay.

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