BA (Hons) Counselling Studies

Counselling StudiesCourse ModulesWhat our Graduates doEntry Requirements
The BA (Hons) Counselling Studies is a professional training in humanistic person-centred counselling / psychotherapy. This course is designed for those who have an interest in mental health, the human condition and a willingness to work with others in times of significant distress.

The course will involve a comprehensive study of Carl Rogers’ theory and practice contextualised in a range of key paradigms. Students have the opportunity to work with clients through the counselling service, clinical supervision is provided. The BA (Hons) in Counselling Studies is also validated by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and will enable students to apply for accreditation after further work with clients. Delivery is through a range of methods including lectures, seminars, case-study, discussions and workshops. A variety of assessment strategies will be used including assignments, case studies, work-based projects, patchwork texts and extended research study/dissertation.

The first year focuses on person-centred theory and practice in-depth with taught elements, seminars, tutorial and personal development groups. The use of role play is a significant part of the programme. By the second year students are working with clients under supervision and deepening their grasp of theory and practice. Different therapeutic modalities are studied and commonalities as well as significant differences explicated and critiqued. By the third year, students will be aiming to complete their work with clients and extend their effective use of supervision. A research project of students’ own choosing is an important part of this final year. All students will be expected to embark on personal counselling or psychotherapy at their own expense for as long as required.

Students experience a psychologically demanding programme which will challenge their world view.


BA (Hons) Counselling Studies Modules offered:

Year One

• Introduction to Counselling


• Exploring Clients’ Lives – A Life Course Approach


• Person-centred Theory


• Professional Skills Practice


• Self-Development 1

Year Two

• Professional Practice


• Counselling – A Comparative Approach


• Analysis or Interaction


• Self-Development 2


• Client Work and Individual Supervision

Year Three

• Professional Supervision


• Self and the Therapeutic Relationship


• Professional Reflection


• Mental Health Issues


• Research Appreciation


• Professional Development through Research

Some graduates find employment within the NHS as part of the IAPT (improving access to psychological therapy) programme; others set up in private practice or work for voluntary organisations. It should be borne in mind that counselling/psychotherapy is not a full-time activity and that most therapists work part-time or have other occupations in allied sectors.

Career Opportunities

This qualification will enable professional students in counselling to provide evidence of continuing professional development and undertake broader managerial and/or supervision duties.

Course Progression

Further academic opportunities such as the MSc in Counselling Studies, available at the University of Essex.

*Please note there is a charge of £44 for a DBS check.

120 UCAS points achieved through two subjects at A Level, 5 GCSEs (grades A*-C) (preferably including English) or an equivalent qualification (e.g. NVQ Health and Social Care Level 3 or BTEC Diploma in Health and Social Care (12 units) or Access to Higher Education qualification (to include psychology or sociology and English). All applicants must have completed an introductory counselling course and have used these skills in a helping capacity. Two sound references. All applicants must undergo an extended interview process. Note: Applicants who have successfully achieved the counselling diploma (or equivalent) may be considered for entry to the third year of this programme. Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)* enhanced check.