Psychology and Counselling

Program Details

Degree: Bachelors
Major: Psychology | Social Work and Counselling | Counselling
Area of study: Social Sciences | Health
Timing: Full time
Course Language: English

Intakes

Program start date

2027-09-01

Program Overview

Overview

The BA (Hons) Psychology and Counselling course at Bishop Grosseteste University is a three-year full-time program that explores the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and social impact. The program adopts a humanistic approach to counselling practice, focusing on the therapeutic relationship and personal development.

Course Summary

Through studying psychology at BGU, students gain an in-depth understanding of the subject and its theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior. The program develops students' understanding of psychology and its application in real-life situations, communities, and societies.

The counselling component of the program focuses on a humanistic approach, specifically Carl Rogers' person-centred therapy. Students learn about the theoretical underpinnings of humanistic counselling and its practical application.

Key Facts

Award: BA (Hons)
UCAS code: BC98
Duration: 3 years
Mode of study: Full-time
Start date: September 2025
Awarding institution: Bishop Grosseteste University
Institution code: B38

What You Will Study

Researching Psychology I
Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan
Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP)
Introduction to Counselling: History, Ethics and People
Introduction to Core Counselling Skills
Enhanced Counselling Skills
Equality, Counselling and Culture
Personality and Individual Differences
Social Psychology
Researching Psychology II
Law and Ethics in Counselling practice
Theories of Human Development in Humanistic Counselling
Selected Humanistic Approaches
Counselling Approaches with Children and Young People (optional)
BioPsychology
Cognitive Psychology
Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation
Psychology Dissertation
Working with Specific Populations
Contemporary Approaches in Counselling
Using Creative Approaches in Counselling Practice (optional)

Entry Requirements

96-112 UCAS tariff points (from a maximum of four Advanced Level qualifications)
GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (previously C) or above (or equivalent)

Assessment

Assessments in Psychology take place at the end of each module
A wide range of assessment methods is used, including portfolios, presentations, displays, and examinations
Counselling assessments include written assignments, coursework, essays, and reports

Careers and Further Study

Psychology graduates can work in teaching, education, local government, health and social work, and industry
Counselling graduates can pursue further study to become professional counsellors or work in related fields

Support

Studying at BGU is a student-centred experience
Staff and students work together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere
Support is available for personal and academic development

Fees and Funding

Information on fees, loans, and support is available
UCAS application fee is £27 (waived for students who have received free school meals)
Full instructions for UCAS applications are available online

Related Courses

Psychology and English with Foundation Year
Psychology and English
Psychology
Psychology and Business
Psychology and Early Childhood Studies
Psychology and Education Studies
Psychology and Sociology
Psychology and Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusion (SENDI)
Psychology and Sport
Psychology with Foundation Year
Psychology and Business with Foundation Year
Psychology and Counselling with Foundation Year
Psychology and Early Childhood Studies with Foundation Year
Psychology and Education Studies with Foundation Year
Psychology and Sociology with Foundation Year
Psychology and Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusion with Foundation Year
Psychology and Sport with Foundation Year

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Program Outline

The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of counselling theories and techniques, focusing on theoretical foundations and the therapeutic relationship.

Objectives:

Equip students with a deep understanding of the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and societal impact.
Provide a strong foundation in humanistic counselling principles, including person-centred therapy, transactional analysis, and Gestalt therapy.
Develop essential counselling skills, such as active listening, empathy, and communication, and the opportunity to practice these skills through role-plays and reflective exercises.
Prepare students for a range of potential career paths, including further study in counselling or related fields.

Outline:

Program Content:

Combines the study of core psychology domains with the development of counselling skills.
Explores topics such as:
The history and development of psychology as a scientific discipline.
Research methods and statistical techniques used in psychological research.
Developmental psychology across the lifespan, physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Biological basis of behavior, emotions, and mental health.
Cognitive psychology, different cognitive constructs, attention, memory, and language.
Personality and individual differences, trait theory, development, and controversies.
Addresses contemporary issues and cross-cultural developments in the field of psychology.
Offers modules specific to counselling, including:
Introduction to counselling history, ethics, and different approaches.
Core counselling skills and development through practice and feedback.
Equality, counselling, and culture.
Working with specific populations and challenges.
Contemporary approaches in counselling.
Culminates in a research dissertation requiring independent research and analysis.

Structure:

Three-year full-time program.
Semester-based with modules taught in each semester.

Individual modules with descriptions:

Researching Psychology I and II: Introduces research methods, statistical techniques, and research design used in psychology.
Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: Explores developmental psychology across the lifespan, physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): Examines the history of psychology, debates, and its emergence as a science.
Introduction to Counselling: History, Ethics and People: Explores the history of counselling, prominent figures, ethical considerations, and different approaches.
Introduction to Core Counselling Skills and Enhanced Counselling Skills: Develops core counselling skills through practice, reflection, and feedback, including active listening, empathy, and effective communication.
Equality, Counselling and Culture: Examines the intersection of counselling, culture, equality, and the impact of power structures on counselling practices.
Personality and Individual Differences: Explores personality, traits, development, and the biological and environmental influences on individual differences.
Social Psychology: Examines social behaviour, group processes, social cognition, and the influence of social settings on individuals.
Law and Ethics in Counselling Practice: Focuses on the legal and ethical framework within which counselling practice operates, including confidentiality, boundaries, and professional responsibilities.
Counselling Approaches with Children and Young People: Introduces various therapeutic approaches for working with children and young people, considering ethical considerations and limitations.
Theories of Human Development in Humanistic Counselling: Explores different theories of human development within a humanistic framework, including Bowlby and Erikson, and their implications for counselling practice.
Selected Humanistic Approaches and Contemporary Approaches in Counselling: Examines specific approaches within the humanistic framework, such as existential therapy, transactional analysis, Gestalt therapy, and explores emerging trends in counselling practices.
BioPsychology: Examines the biological basis of behaviour, emotions, and mental health, including neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience approaches.
Cognitive Psychology: Examines cognitive processes, different cognitive constructs (attention, memory, language), and associated methodologies.
Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation: Develops research design skills for the dissertation project, including ethical considerations and research methodologies.
Psychology Dissertation: Requires independent research, data collection, analysis, and writing a research report in a journal-style article format.
Using Creative Approaches in Counselling Practice: Explores creative techniques and approaches for use in counselling, such as artwork, sand tray, and music therapy.
Working with Specific Populations: Examines working with clients facing various mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bereavement, and suicidality, and explores therapeutic responses and ethical considerations.

Assessment:

Assessments vary depending on the module and may include:
Written assignments
Essays
Reports
Oral presentations
Practical assessments
Examinations
Laboratory projects
Portfolios
Displays
Assessments are designed to develop specific skills, critical thinking, analysis, and the application of knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Teaching:

Variety of teaching methods are employed including:
Lectures
Tutorials
Seminars
Practical workshops
Coursework
Work-based placements
Small group sizes ensure individual attention, support, and feedback.
Placements provide opportunities for practical experience and application of knowledge.

Careers:

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers:
Clinical settings
Counselling
Mental health services
Education
Research
Psychology
Sociology
Health and Social Care
Option to pursue further study to become a professional counsellor.

Other:

Students receive personalized support from staff and faculty, ensuring a positive and supportive learning environment.
Induction to graduation, students are supported personally and academically throughout their studies.

About University

Bishop Grosseteste University: A Summary

Overview:

Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is a public university located in Lincoln, England. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, ranking first in the UK for student satisfaction according to the Times Higher Education. BGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a particular focus on teacher training and other education-related programs.

Services Offered:

BGU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Student Advice & Wellbeing:

Library:

IT Services:

Accommodation:

Careers:

Alumni Network:

Student Life and Campus Experience:

BGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in sports activities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Students' Union. The university is located in the historic city of Lincoln, offering a rich cultural experience and numerous attractions.

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Program Details

Intakes

Program Overview