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Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy at Hartpury University - UCAS

Hartpury University

Degree level: Postgraduate

Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy (Taught)

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

This postgraduate course has been designed for those already qualified as Psychologists and Counsellors to develop their understanding and expertise in utilising Animal Assisted Services (AAS) within their practice. The programme will provide a broad basis on the roles and responsibilities of working with animals in human mental healthcare, whilst also providing you with opportunities to focus on your specific interests within the field. Add to your existing skills as qualified mental health practitioners with in-depth theoretical knowledge and understanding of core competencies and best practices in Animal Assisted Services (AAS) alongside key practical application, to achieve fitness to practice.  Develop skills in critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation, and apply these to a range of topics in animal assisted counselling and psychotherapy, allowing you to navigate the complex interface between practice, ethics, legality, and research incorporated within a One Health, One Welfare approach. You'll apply critical skills to solve complex problems, develop ideas and evaluate current practices of working with animals within human mental healthcare, and the vital role they share in influencing and optimising the professionalism and best practices within the industry. Most importantly, you'll develop theoretical knowledge, alongside observational, assessment, and practical skills to provide animals with lifelong care and training, to protect the welfare of animals included in AAS. Enact positive changes in AAS to ensure humans benefit, animal welfare is not compromised, and recognising when including animals or clients within sessions may be inappropriate or require amendment.

Modules

Our modules are developed regularly to reflect student and industry demands, ensuring you’re well prepared to enter skilled employment on graduation. The majority of courses are comprised of both compulsory and optional modules, the latter of which you'll be able to choose from to suit your interests and career goals. Most courses also include work placement learning, to help you gain essential experience for your future. Modules include: Companion & Working Animal Regulations, Animal Training, Behaviour, and Assessment, Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy, Integrating Humans, Animals and the Environment into Counselling, The Research Process, Postgraduate Dissertation Modules are sometimes subject to change.


Entry requirements

2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject. Students with 2:2 and relevant experience will be considered on a case by case basis. Additionally, all students must have at least BACP level 5 or BPS accredited Clinical Psychology or Mental Health Counselling Qualifications or equivalent professional qualifications for international applicants. International: In addition to the academic qualification an IELTS 6.5 or equivalent is required.


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £15000 Whole course
Northern Ireland £15000 Whole course
Scotland £15000 Whole course
Wales £15000 Whole course
Channel Islands £15000 Whole course
Republic of Ireland £15000 Whole course
EU £18750 Whole course
International £18750 Whole course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Please look at the Course Information Sheet found on our website (www.hartpury.ac.uk) for a full breakdown of all course-related costs.

Sponsorship information

The Hartpury Postgraduate Studentship Scheme has been developed to make postgraduate study affordable and to provide students with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience to compliment and enhance their academic study. Roles are available in Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants. Post holders will be supported to undertake a teaching qualification and HEA accreditation as well as having a fee bursary and a training bursary. To apply, please visit: https://www.hartpury.ac.uk/university/postgraduate/postgraduate-studentship-scheme/ For information on other financial support available to postgraduate students, please see our website for more information: www.hartpury.ac.uk/university/facilities/life-at-hartpury/finance/

Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy at Hartpury University - UCAS