This course delivers a strong grounding in psychology, the scientific study of mind and behaviour, with a particular focus on mental health and wellbeing. Specifically designed as an entry point for a career in counselling, the course provides an introduction to counselling psychology and the scientific methods used to understand and address various psychological issues. While the course doesn’t provide formal training in counselling skills, you’ll develop your understanding of human behaviour in key psychological areas, such as biological, cognitive, social, individual differences, and developmental. You’ll also learn essential research skills and study the core theories and skills that psychologists use to help people cope with personal and emotional problems.

When you graduate you’ll be ready to pursue a professional career in counselling psychology. This career path requires further postgraduate training and supervision, approved by the Health and Care Professions Council. The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society, making you eligible for Graduate Membership with the Graduate Basis for Chartership (provided that second-class honours are achieved) – the first step to becoming a chartered psychologist. Psychology is relevant to a wide range of careers, both in psychology itself and in associated occupations. You’ll develop invaluable specialist and transferable knowledge and skills relevant to a broad range of careers, including applied and research-based social or personal improvement roles. Links with industry We place a strong emphasis on applied psychology and real-world issues, and the team can support you in finding potential work experience opportunities with organisations such as local branches of the NHS. Guest lecturers provide up-to-date insight into specialist aspects of psychology, with previous speakers including Dr Áine Fulcher (clinical psychologist, Solent NHS). Students are encouraged to present their final-year projects nationally, and previous students have presented at the British Psychology Society annual conferences in London (2012) and Stratford-upon-Avon (2009), as well as at the International Association of Relationship Research Biannual Conference, Chicago (2012).