Psychology (Counselling)

Our BSc (Hons) Psychology (Counselling) is one of only a few such programmes nationally, designed specifically for students who are interested in pursuing a career in counselling or counselling psychology. Psychology and Counselling is* accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS)*, offering students the opportunity to gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.

There are multiple points throughout this counselling and psychology degree where there are opportunities for work placements. During stage one, there is a short work placement to complete as part of a module assessment. Following from here, there are work placement opportunities within our Education focused modules at stages two and three. We also run an optional placement year, between stages two and three, giving you the opportunity to strengthen career skills alongside your degree, should you so wish.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information.

Course Modules

STAGE 1
• Introduction to Counselling (compulsory)
• Becoming a Psychologist (compulsory)
• Introduction to Psychology (compulsory)
• Psychology in Practice (compulsory)
• Positive Psychology (compulsory)
• Psychology for Life (compulsory)

STAGE 2
• Counselling: from Theory to Practice (compulsory)
• Research Methods and Statistics (compulsory)
• The Psychology of Well Being (designated)
• The Psychology of Learning and Teaching in Educational Settings (designated)
• The Human Animal (designated)
• Biological and Cognitive Psychology: Mechanisms of the mind (compulsory)
• Development and Society (compulsory)
• Personality & the Fundamentals of Psychology (compulsory)

Optional Placement Year
• The FHES Placement Year Experience (designated)
Students must have successfully completed 100 credits at Level 5 in order to undertake placement.

STAGE 3
• Counselling Psychology Dissertation (compulsory)
• Counselling in Context (compulsory)
• The Psychology of Mental Health (designated)
• Psychology of Spirituality, Religion and Wellbeing (designated)
• Parapsychology and Anomalous Experiences (designated)
• Applying Positive Psychology (designated)
• The Psychology of Health (designated)
• Educational Psychology (designated)
• Neuroscience of Mind (designated)
• Lifespan Development (designated)
• The Psychology of Work and Organisations (designated)

• Students must take the compulsory modules and three designated modules. Students who do not complete the Honours Degree will be eligible for an Ordinary Degree in the named subject upon successful completion of a minimum of 60 Level 6 credits. These can be from any Level 6 modules, whether identified as compulsory or designated.

*Module information is quoted for 2025/26 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

The course is assessed in a number of ways:

• Essays

• Role play exercises

• Reflective writing assignments

• Practical reports

• Multiple-choice tests

• Oral presentations

• Essays

• Seen and unseen examinations

• Critical reviews

• Group project work

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• British Psychological Society