COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Counselling and Mental Health degree is structured to provide a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and professional experience across three years. In the first year, students gain foundational understanding through modules such as Humanistic Philosophy and Theories, Relational Skills in Counselling, and Introduction to Counselling Skills. Additional modules like Working in the Helping Professions, Working within Diversity, and Academic and Research Skills develop essential professional competencies and critical thinking abilities. The second year builds on this foundation by expanding practical and analytical expertise, with modules including Relational Skills in the Community, Perspectives on Mental Health, Developing Professional Experiences, and Change-Oriented Approaches. Students also develop research competence through Research Methods and deepen understanding of mental health within social and cultural contexts in Contextualising Mental Health. In the final year, the focus shifts to advanced practice and independent scholarship. Modules such as Deepening Humanistic Practice, Advanced Therapeutic Relationships, Psychodynamic and Insight-Oriented Theories, and The Ethical and Reflective Professional enable students to refine their clinical skills, ethical awareness, and professional identity. The Independent Research Project allows students to investigate a topic of personal or professional interest. Overall, the degree equips graduates with the practical, theoretical, and reflective skills necessary for careers in counselling, mental health support, and related professions.