Psychology with Counselling

The BA (Hons) Psychology with Counseling programme at the University of Sunderland offers students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental theories and applied practices within psychology and counseling. Designed to equip learners with a solid foundation in psychological principles, the course explores various areas such as developmental, social, cognitive, and biological psychology, providing insights into human behavior, mental processes, and psychological health. The programme emphasizes the development of critical thinking, research skills, and practical competencies necessary for working effectively within mental health and counseling settings. Throughout the course, students engage in diverse learning activities, including lectures, seminars, case studies, and experiential workshops, to foster both academic knowledge and practical expertise. The course also integrates counseling skills training, enabling students to develop key interpersonal abilities, empathetic communication, and ethical awareness vital for counseling practice. Opportunities for placement and real-world application are embedded within the curriculum, allowing students to gain valuable work experience alongside their academic studies. The programme prepares graduates for a variety of careers in mental health support, counseling, social work, and related fields, or for further postgraduate study. By combining psychological theory with counseling practice, the programme aims to produce well-rounded, competent graduates capable of making a positive impact on individuals and communities. The University of Sunderland's supportive academic environment, experienced faculty, and extensive resources ensure students receive a high-quality education that balances academic rigor with practical relevance. Upon successful completion, graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional awareness to pursue their chosen career paths or further academic pursuits in psychology and counseling.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline 15th January/October Tuition fee

• GBP 7800 Year (EEA)
• GBP 9500 Year (International)

Start date September 2015 15th Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

Modules on this course include: Year 1 (national level 4)

• Genes to Mind (20 Credits)
• Mind to World (20 Credits)
• Foundations of Psychological Research (40 Credits)
• Introduction to Counselling Theories (20 Credits)
• Developing Reflective and Academic Skills (20 Credits)

Year 2 (national level 5)

• Moral and Antisocial Behaviour (20 Credits)
• Cradle to Grave (20 Credits)
• Psychological Research (40 Credits)
• Counselling Theories 2 (20 Credits)
• Introduction to Counselling Skills (20 Credits)

Final Year (national level 6)

• Empirical Project (40 Credits)
• From Lab to Life: Big Issues in Psychology (10 Credits)
• Mental Health and Illness (20 Credits)

Optional Modules (choose 50 Credits):

• Clinical Neuropsychology (20 Credits)
• Forensic Psychology (20 Credits)
• Occupational Psychology (20 Credits)
• Contemporary Evolutionary Psychology (20 Credits)
• Environmental Psychology (20 Credits)
• Psychology and the Real World (20 Credits)
• Remembering and Forgetting (20 Credits)
• Advanced Quantitative Methods (10 Credits)
• Cyberpsychology (10 Credits)
• Dark Personalities (10 Credits)
• Psychology of Art (10 Credits)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 60(Grade C)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (for example 1 x AVCE double award).

We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills qualifications.

We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.

If you have already covered one or more of the topics covered by the course, and would like to apply for accreditation of prior learning (APL), please contact the course leader.

Other acceptable qualifications

BTEC National: 260 points from a BTEC Certificate or Diploma.

Access Courses: We would require successful completion of an Access to Higher Education course that is accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency. We would also require a minimum of grade C at GCSE in Mathematics and English Language or the equivalent as part of your course.

Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Sunderland.

Funding

Scholarships on offer include cash bursaries, reduced tuition fees, free accommodation and free public transport.

Accreditation

This course differs from Psychology BSc (Hons) because it includes additional core modules relating to counselling skills, counselling theories and mental health and illness. To allow for this, you will not study some of the broader based modules such as ‘evolutionary psychology’ and ‘psychological perspectives’, though you may be able to choose one of them as an option.