Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice (Validated by Ulster University)

Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice

General Entry Requirements 

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Application of Number or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

AND

• Passes in 5 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 2 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points including:

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile DD

OR

• RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma with overall award profile PPP or Diploma in with overall award profile MP

OR

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 40% overall

OR

• Ulster University L4 Certificate in Counselling Studies

OR

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• Successful interview by panel for suitability to undertake this clinical training course.

For information on common alternative Level 3 qualifications, please refer to the Ulster University Entrance Requirements and Equivalence of Qualifications table available at https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)

• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)

• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

Please note, all applications must be received by 5PM on Friday 16th May 2025. Late applications will not be considered.

• Integrative Skills 1
• Integrating the Self
• Integration of Humanistic Theories and Skills
• Ethics and Professional practice
• Integrative Skills 2
• Integration of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Supervised Practice 1&2 (placement modules)
• Psychosocial Development across the Life span
• Developing a Personal Integrative Approach
• Integration of Psychodynamic Approaches
  

Each module within the programme is assessed individually. Assessment is by a variety of coursework methods. The methods used reflect the learning outcomes of the module and enhance the strategies used in teaching and learning.    Assessment allows for the measurement of depth and breadth of knowledge and also for the opportunity to promote active learning on behalf of the student.   

Assessments activities include: 

• Personal Learning Records
• Video-taped sessions
• Personal Case Study
• Case Studies
• Client Case Studies
• Vivas, Seminar Presentations
• Evaluation of Current Counselling research

Assessment activities aim to develop, in each student, the intellectual and personal qualities that can be used in counselling work. These include the ability to: 

• Develop self-awareness and personal skills
• Think through problems, objectively and systematically
• Use current research to inform practice
• Conduct accurate client assessment
• Work through therapeutic outcomes
• Communicate in writing to a high standard
• Adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework
• Show effective oral communication

To support professional development 30 hours of Personal Therapy is required throughout the lifetime of the programme, and 100 hours of supervised practice client work, must be achieved.    Constructive formative developmental feedback is provided for all assignments. Extensive comments are provided on all scripts which are summarised on a formal summative feedback sheet. Students are offered individual tutorials to discuss this further.  Assessment is monitored further for reliability of marking through cross marking and moderation between staff, within the individual college and across colleges and by the External Examiner.  Assessment Rules- Pass mark for each assessment, module and course: 40% 

The design of the FdSc in Integrative Counselling Practice is in line with those set out by the two main professional bodies in the area:  The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) qualifies students to be counselling practitioners.

The programme offers two exit points depended on student need/professional goal:

1. FdSc in Integrative Counselling Practice: 3 years (full qualification)

2. Cert HE in Counselling: 2 years (lower award).  This is an alternative lower award and non practice route for those seeking a Certificate of Higher Education in Counselling (2 years), with the emphasis on theoretical studies and exiting after 2 years.

3. BScHons in professional development Counselling (top-up) course at Ulster University (see professional development)

Students who have successfully completed the FdSc in Integrative Counselling Practice,  which is accredited by British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).  You will then be eligible to apply for full membership of either or both of the professional bodies. This course provides students with extensive opportunities for further study as a higher level e.g. Ulster University top up degree: BSc (Hons) Professional Development in Counselling, a level 6 programme and then to postgraduate at level 7. 

Course fees are detailed on the college website and include examination fees and registration with Ulster University.  Additional costs will be incurred including: 

1. Personal therapy (approximately £40 per hour) for a minimum of twenty sessions 
2. Clinical Supervision (typically £35 - £40 per hour - (student rates may be available) ratios are 1:5 in the first 30 hours and 1:8 in the remaining 120 hours approximately)
3. BACP Student membership 
4. NCS Student membership 
5. Professional Indemnity Insurance 
6. All applicants must satisfy Enhanced Disclosure from Access NI which will incur a fee of approximately £32.  If you require further information on this course please contact (Course Directors) Angelika McClearn at ammcclearn@serc.ac.uk or Andrea Woodrow at awoodrow@serc.ac.uk  

Please note that course fees, made up of tuition fees and registration fees, are payable in each year of the programme.