Studying BA (Hons) Guidance and Counselling at Northumbria University provides a valuable foundation for those who wish to use guidance and counselling strategies as part of a job role within a range of ‘helping professions or as basis for further research or professional training.

This theoretically rich subject draws upon a range of disciplines including Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy. You will be encouraged to develop critical thinking, to be able to recognise the inequalities and discriminatory practices encountered by people in everyday life and to consider strategies to influence and bring about change.

You will engage with a range of learning experiences that include group work, case studies, enquiry based and experiential learning, as well as the more traditional lecture-based approach. Applying theory to practice is a central theme of the course and you will take part in a number of experiences to enable you to develop your skills such as peer mentoring, careers interviews and group facilitation. Work placements and study abroad options are available for a full year between your second and final years, with the additional option of a placement during your second year.

BA Hons Guidance and Counselling at Northumbria is unique in being the only undergraduate programme that qualifies you to enter the career guidance profession, just one of the areas graduates can go into. Our graduates offer a unique skillset which equips them for a wide range of job roles within education, health and community settings, many which support mental health and well-being, an area where there is growing demand. Students can also use their degree as a basis for further study or professional training in areas such as Counselling, Teaching or Social Work. Please note that in order to qualify as a Counsellor you would need an additional qualification and observed experience in practice – something many students choose to do.

How will my degree provide me with the skills needed for my career?

The content of the course is relevant to all the ‘helping professions and youll have a great deal of flexibility when it comes to careers.

Further specialist training will be required for some careers, such as counselling, social work, teaching and nursing. For other roles you might go straight into employment and undertake on the job training. Examples of roles include careers adviser, psychological well-being practitioner, family support coordinator, training and development officer, social prescriber, lead learning mentor, behaviour specialist, progression coach, counselling and support manager. In recent years, final year BA Hons Guidance & Counselling students have been 'head hunted' by a number of organisations, particularly within the career guidance sector.

If you decide to start your own business, its good to know that the combined turnover of our graduates start-up companies is higher than that of any other UK university.

Whatever you decide to do, youll have strong employability as a result of having acquired the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate. These include critical reflection and self-learning, collaboration and curiosity, and the ability to apply your knowledge to solve problems in ways that are sustainable and ethical.

Mode of Study

3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad