Course summary
The BA (Hons) Counselling degree focuses on integrative counselling. Research has and continues to demonstrate that no single approach to counselling and psychotherapy is more effective than another. Indeed, to meet the diverse needs of their clients, practitioners have shown increased willingness to explore the possibilities of working in diverse ways. Hence the emergence of integration in counselling. The honours degree covers a broad base in traditional counselling theories, specifically psychodynamic, humanistic, behavioural and physiological approaches. You will have the opportunity to research other alternative therapies. An understanding of several theories provides a framework from which counsellors can assess a client’s behaviour, thoughts, and feelings and help them navigate a client’s journey from diagnosis to post-treatment. We aim to broaden your experience and knowledge by exploring practice within a variety of contexts and arenas. The aim of the degree programme is to enable you to develop your own personal model of integration, based on your understanding of self, values and beliefs and preferred ways of working. As part of the exploration of self, you are required to undertake 40 hours of personal therapy throughout the programme – this therapy is self-funded. You will be supported to undertake 100 hours of professional practice with clients throughout your second and third year of study. The experience gained in practice is fundamental to the completion of a qualificatory practice module in the final year. Those who are unable to undertake the practice module will be transferred to BA (Hons) Theoretical Counselling.
Modules
Level 4: Introduction to Counselling Theory Foundational Counselling Skills Professional Development Self-Awareness You will be assessed on your readiness to undertake practice and begin placement hours at the end of Level 4. Level 5: Integrative Counselling Practice Philosophical Foundations of Counselling Post Freudian Theories and Integration Research Informed Practice Self-Awareness and Personal Development Level 6: Dissertation Beyond Words Issues in the Counselling Room Self-Awareness and Reflective Practice Professional Practice Developing Counselling Practice*
- Undertaken instead of Professional Practice where 100 hours of placement have not been achieved with transfer to BA (Hons) Theoretical Counselling
Assessment method
A range of assessment methodologies are utilised and designed to enable you to explore your integrative approach to counselling and career/academic aspirations. Assessment methods include both formative and summative submissions. The formative assessments focus on fundamental theories and practice, ethical frameworks, self-awareness, group work and contracting providing on-going opportunities to refine and develop your integrative approach and reflections to incorporate into summative assessments. Summative assessments include group and individual presentations, case studies, written assignments, portfolios and logs, and learning / practice journals.
How to apply
31Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- F001
- Institution code:
- W46
- Campus name:
- University Studies and Professional Development Centre
- Campus code:
- B
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
The college does not accept International Applications for this course.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 96 points
A level - CCC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MMM
All applicants must undergo an extended interview process and demonstrate capacity for self-awareness, maturity and stability and be able to cope with the emotional demands of the course. Those undertaking practice hours will be required to successfully complete a Data and Baring Service (DBS) check. It is desirable that applicants have previously completed an introductory to counselling course and have used these skills in a helping capacity. Applicants who do not meet the published entry requirements will be considered on an individual basis based upon prior learning and relevant experience.
Additional entry requirements
Other
English language requirements
GCSE English and Maths Grade 4/C or above
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £8500 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £8500 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £8500 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £8500 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Personal therapy and qualified supervision of counselling students when seeing clients on placements are requirements of this degree course and in both cases normally incur extra financial costs to the student.
The cost of personal therapy varies widely but is normally between £25-60 per session. It is a substantial cost and should be taken into consideration when arranging your finances for the course.
In addition, once in practice, you will be required to undertake individual supervision (minimum of 1.5 hours of supervision required for every 8 client hours on placement). The cost of supervision varies widely but is normally between £40-60 per session. Your chosen therapist must be an accredited member of the BACP or a registered member of the UKCP.
You are encouraged to register as a member of a recognised professional body as a student member prior to the commencement of practice / placement. This requires an annual subscription fee.
You will undertake a minimum of 100 hours of practice requiring independent travel to the placement provider(s).
Before you begin practice you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Data Baring Service (DBS) check.
Additional costs may include the purchase of core texts – we acknowledge individuals may prefer hard copy core texts for annotation and reference.
Provider information
West Suffolk College
Out Risbygate
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP33 3RL