Counselling PG Dip/MA

The PG Dip is a two year part-time course, designed for students with some prior counselling skills training and experience in a helping role. The theoretical basis of the course is humanistic-integrative. Equal weight is given to the study of counselling theory, counselling practice and personal development in the training of counsellors.

Our academics draw on a 30 year tradition of counsellor training at York St John University. They are experienced practitioners, trainers and active researchers.

The first year is devoted to exploring elements of the therapeutic relationship, preparation for practice and draws heavily on humanistic theory and practice.

The second year builds on the subjects from the first year of study and explores the contribution of other models of counselling. You will get to develop a personally integrated style of therapeutic work, based on core humanistic competences, and draw on the possibilities offered by other approaches.

Should you choose to study for the MA, the two year PG Dip will be followed by a year of specialised research on a topic of your choice.

Professional accreditation

The PG Diploma is accredited by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). On successful completion of the PG Dip, you will be eligible to apply for membership of the BACP Register (register of psychological therapists accredited under the Professional Standards Authority accredited register programme).

Year 1

Modules

Year 2

Modules

Year 3

Modules

The course runs over 30 weeks, starting in September and finishing in June. You will attend one full day per week in term time. There is one compulsory residential weekend (usually in late January or early February) in each academic year. A contact day will normally contain elements of counselling theory, counselling practice, peer supervision, and personal development activities.

You will be assessed through coursework. This comprises of written assignments, such as casework and supervision records, reflections on personal development and assessment of practical skills. Over the two years you will also complete 150 hours of supervised face-to-face client work.

The course is developmental and provides integrated training in theory, process and skills as prescribed by the BACP. All modules are compulsory.

For the MA you will study one module and assessment will be via a research paper.

Qualifications

You must have a first degree or other recognised professional qualification.You must have satisfactorily completed, or be currently in the process of completing, a Certificate in Counselling skills, or equivalent.

Work Experience

You must have experience of the use of counselling skills at work, in education, helping professions or in voluntary agencies.

Progression onto the MA is achieved through successful completion of the PG diploma in counselling.

If you do not have the traditional academic qualifications for postgraduate study, but satisfy the criteria around professional experience, you can undertake the Access module (3ID130), as part of the entry process.

Interview

You will be interviewed prior to being offered a place on the course and subject to submitting a successful application.

International Students

This course is not open to International Students.

Tuition Fees

Alumni Scholarships

If you are an alumni of York St John University we have scholarships available to help you continue your studies.

Scholarships for Alumni

Monday 12 November

Applications open for PG Dip and MA Counselling starting in 2020.

Friday 1 May, 12pm

Applications close for PG Dip and MA Counselling starting in 2020.

Thursday 7 May, 12pm

All references and documentation, in support of applications, to be submitted.