The BSc (hons) in Counselling is a work-based professional training course focusing on person-centred pluralistic counselling practice within contemporary society. As a student, you will have an opportunity to explore how to integrate a pluralistic approach to counselling into a Rogerian person-centred foundation of theory and practice. The programme focuses on four professional training foundations:

As a student you will develop the core skills needed to become a professional, registered counsellor by completing a supervised work-based placement. This will enable you to apply for registered membership with the BACP on completion of the required hours. The course aligns itself with the main regulatory bodies SCoPed framework for training and enables you progress through the therapist bands with further training.

You will have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of personal development activities, including an annual residential, weekly personal development groups and other reflective tasks and assignments. These opportunities will encourage you to develop the self-awareness and reflectivity needed to become a counselling professional.

Students will engage with the therapeutic community through supervision, membership of a professional body, continuing professional development and research activities. As a student you will also be introduced to issues that affect psychological well-being and inclusion in wider society and will be encouraged to develop and promote inclusive and cultural competencies. You will also be introduced to aspects of inequality within mental health provision and will be encouraged to explore aspects of privilege and advantage and the impact this may have on therapeutic practice.

We recognise that research is an important skill for the practising counsellor/psychotherapist and you will develop your knowledge and skills of how to understand, interpret and conduct research in this area. We also offer support for your academic, personal and career development throughout the programme as well as having access to a professional network consisting of guest speakers and work-based learning opportunities. Working closely with professionals, employers and placement providers, will offer the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge needed for your chosen career path. It is envisaged that graduates from this programme could apply for Masters level courses in counselling, or work in private practice or within multidisciplinary healthcare settings.