This programme provides opportunities for students to develop their knowledge and skills as a counsellor, and is especially suited to those considering a career as a practising counsellor. Counselling is a talking therapy with two major strands: firstly, helping people cope with emotional and relational difficulties and, secondly, facilitating personal growth.

In the first term of the programme, and informed by the reflective scientist-practitioner model, students are introduced to counselling theory and ethics, and are taught and practice counselling skills. Due to the course leading to a professional qualification in counselling, much of the learning is experiential where students can develop their counselling skills as well as how to apply theory to their work.

The primary theoretical and philosophical approach the programme teaches in the person-centred approach with an emphasis upon the importance of intersubjectivity and the therapeutic relationship. In the second term students can gain practical experience as trainee counsellors, learn about relevant clinical research paradigms, and are introduced to methods for reliably assessing a client's response to counselling, including the use of measurement tools such as questionnaires.

The second year will focus on the MSc, where students can develop a range of research skills and engage in a research project in relation to counselling.

Following completion of the PG Diploma Counselling (first year), students can apply for individual registration with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) pending completion of professional practice hours.

Placements

As a part of the programme you are required undertake a placement where you need to acquire 100 hours of face-to-face therapeutic work. The purpose of the placement is to enable you to develop experience in delivering therapy and competence in counselling skills. You will be required to engage in a minimum of two hours of individual supervision per month from the start of the placement. Supervision is compulsory and an integral part of the programme.

Students are responsible for acquiring and sourcing their own placements and are advised to consider future career objectives and interests when considering placements.

The University has developed partnerships with both NHS and non-NHS services (third sector organisations, schools, and community organisations) who are able to provide placements, however, these organisations may have their own internal application process. Students will be provided support in finding an appropriate placement.

To ensure placements are appropriate and meet the necessary learning outcomes, all placements should be approved by the programme prior to students starting therapeutic work.

Following successful completion of the PG Diploma at the end of the first year, students can apply for individual registration with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) pending completion of professional practice hours.

Students completing the full MSc may choose to pursue a career in research and academia.