BSc (Hons) Psychology (Counselling) (Full Time)

Gain a thorough grounding in psychology while studying its application to counselling, an area of growing importance.

Course overview

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes (and the interrelation between the two). It is concerned with how we act and interact, both as individuals and in groups, and in exploring the thoughts and feelings that underlie our behaviour using methodological techniques such as experiments, questionnaires and interviews.

This course covers all of the major areas of psychology, with specific units focusing on counselling psychology. This field is concerned with the integration of psychological theory and research with therapeutic practice, for example, in areas such as managing stress, coping with depression, confronting phobias or dealing with major life events such as divorce or bereavement. 

Industrial focus

Throughout your studies, you will consider both theory and experimental evidence. The emphasis throughout the course is on real-world applications of psychological theory and research within the counselling field, particularly in Year 3. 

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Course content

Year 1

Six core units:

• Introduction to Cognitive, Developmental and Social Psychology
• Introduction to Abnormal, Biological and Personality Psychology
•  Research Methods and Statistics
• Integrating Psychology: Skills and Applications
• Psychological Investigations 1 
• Investigations in Counselling Psychology. 

Year 2

Six core units:

• Social Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Psychological Measurement 1
• Psychobiology
• Developmental Psychology
• Measurement in Counselling Psychology. 

Year 3

Three core units, one option unit, two specialist units and a dissertation:

Core units:

• Psychology Project
• Personality and Individual Differences
• Psychological Debates: Conceptual and Historical Issues
• Specialist units:
• Psychology and Mental Health
• Counselling: Application and Practice.

Option units:

• Applied Cognitive Psychology
• Applied Developmental Psychology
• Applied Social Psychology
• Curriculum Plus. 

Why choose this course?

• Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), giving students eligibility for graduate membership, the first step towards becoming a chartered counseling psychologist.
• Modern facilities include dedicated observation, cognitive, psychophysiology and computer laboratories.
• Major psychological teaching/research software includes MEL LAB, SuperLab, and apparatus for psychophysiological work such as Biopac.
• A dedicated and supportive staff team with a wide range of research experience.
• Guest lectures and workshops provided by practising counselling psychologists.

Assesment

Coursework essays, practical group-based written reports, group and individual presentations, time-limited assignments, examinations, poster presentations, final-year dissertation. 

Key career skills

Analysis and research, presentation, project management, communication and problem solving.

Projects/work experience:

A voluntary research assistance scheme is in place which provides opportunities to contribute to research projects currently undertaken by members of staff. Examples of projects students are currently engaged in include the impact of parenting styles on development, academic experiences, and an exploration of the role social networks play in maintaining health and well-being.