Undergraduate BSc (Hons)

Psychology and Counselling

Attendance

Full-time

Course

Three year

Next enrolment

September 2025

Introduction

In a nutshell

A psychology and counselling degree opens up lots of career options, more than many other degrees. Employers value these subjects because they help you develop essential people skills and knowledge for working well with individuals and teams. 

This degree is designed to provide you with a thorough grounding in the theory and application of both psychology and counselling. The emphasis is on innovation and learning through a variety of styles that have widespread use, while developing key skills and relevant practical experience. The counselling skills you gain will provide a basis for further study and training in counselling. Your final year supervised research project will allow you to explore an area of psychology of your choice. 

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

91% of students agree that teaching staff are good at explaining things in the National Student Survey 2024.

You will:

  • Learn about the principles of psychology, bio-psychology and the psychology of social behaviour, as well as research methods.
  • Be introduced to key theoretical counselling concepts and start to develop your practical counselling skills.
  • Focus on the theoretical aspects of helping relationships and consider how this relationship can be used to benefit clients' psychological health.
Placement

options available

International

students accepted

Course accreditations

The British Psychological Society logo

This is for you if...

1.

You're curious about the range of human behaviours.

2.

You're interested in human relationships and helping others.

3.

You have strong written skills.

4.

You have an aptitude for research.

5.

You can see yourself working with people from all kinds of backgrounds.

6.

You want to make a real difference.

Course details

All about the course

Our psychology and counselling course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) - if you achieve a lower second-class degree or above, a Graduate basis for registration is awarded. This is the first step to becoming a chartered psychologist. You will have the opportunity to take a work placement, giving you real-life experience. 

During the second year, you will also have the opportunity to apply for a sandwich year which will be taken between the second and third year of your programme, to either study abroad or gain professional experience. Please note, there is a limited number of placements available and therefore a place on the sandwich year isn't guaranteed. 

The final year gives you the opportunity to specialise in areas of psychology and counselling that interest you and to undertake a supervised research project of your own. 

Year one

Core Areas of Psychology

Embark on an exciting exploration of Psychology with our captivating module that delves into the intricacies of the five core areas as defined by the British Psychological Society. This integration of approaches will immerse you in the fascinating field of Psychology, to deepen your grasp of human behaviour through the exploration of both foundational theories and cutting-edge research. By mastering this module, you’ll not only gain a comprehensive understanding but also acquire the skills needed to confidently apply specialised knowledge at an advanced level. 

Philosophical roots, research approaches and academic skills in Psychology

Explore Psychology's origins and evolution in this module offering insights into its philosophical and scientific roots. Uncover the intriguing journey from early understandings to the establishment of Psychology as a distinct discipline, shaped by historical and cultural milestones. Consider the dynamism of research frameworks, from traditional approaches to post-modern influences. The module will also empower you with academic skills essential for a successful Psychology degree and future career development. 

Counselling and Psychotherapeutic Approaches

An introductions to basic counselling, communication, listening, interpersonal skills and reflective practice.

Introduction to Quantitative Analysis

Build a strong foundation in quantitative approaches, honing skills in data analysis techniques and specialised software applications. This knowledge forms the basis for advanced skill development at higher levels of study, enabling you to master the essential tools for impactful research and professional success. 

Introduction to Qualitative Research

Gain a profound understanding of the philosophical foundations and practical applications or qualitative approaches to psychological research. Delve into diverse data collection methods such as interviews, observations, and focus groups. Elevate your analytical skills through a focus on thematic analysis, setting the stage for future specialisation and independent application at advanced levels of study. 

Therapy, Ethics and Human Rights

This module will enable you to recognise and contextualise Counselling and Psychotherapy nationally, internationally and globally and explore the impact on clients and therapists.

Year two

Research and Professional Skills

This multi-faceted module equips you with the knowledge and skills essential for both academic and professional excellence. Not only will you enhance your understanding of research but also lays the groundwork for a successful Level 6 dissertation and a flourishing graduate career. 

Biological Psychology

Building on your first-year knowledge, you'll further unravel the mysteries of human and non-human animal behaviour through a greater knowledge of the field of Biological Psychology. Topics range from the biological bases of behaviour to neuropsychology, genetics, and evolutionary psychology, offering a comprehensive and captivating exploration of this field. 

Classic Paradigms in Cognitive Psychology

Elevate your understanding of cognition with this advanced module. Immerse yourself in a world of empirical studies and contemporary theoretical models, to further enhance your expertise into such concepts as perception, learning, memory, language, and thinking and gain insights that bridge theory and practical application. 

Developmental Psychology in Childhood and Adolescence

Further expand your knowledge of the depth and relevance of Developmental Psychology in understanding children and adolescents. Improve your skills by focussing on research techniques specific to this sub-field and witness the real-world impact as you apply module content to policy and professional practice. 

Individual Differences

Explore the rich history, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies of personality and intelligence. Consider diverse approaches, from trait-based and humanistic to cognitive and biological, providing a comprehensive overview and enabling you to apply your insights to real-world case studies. 

New and Critical Theories in Social Psychology

Extend your knowledge of Social Psychology through the consideration of ten areas for enhanced focus. These encompass aspects of both intergroup and interpersonal social functioning and provide basis from which to design and execute your own choice of mini research project. 

Further Research Methods

Further master the skills of research design and execution. Elevate your statistical ability to interpret complex results, including multivariate analysis, effect size, and confidence intervals. Dive further into the world of qualitative analysis, grasping methods like grounded theory, interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), and conversational analysis. 

Intermediate Counselling Skills 1

In this module you will work with fellow students to further develop your counselling skills through experiential learning.

Intermediate Counselling Skills 2

Intermediate Counselling Skills 2 builds on Intermediate Counselling Skills 1 and on its completion enables you to receive a Graduate Certificate of Competency in Counselling.

Year three

Dissertation

You will carry out a large-scale empirical research project on a topic of your choice. The range of skills you develop as you navigate the process of research design, applying for ethical approval, recruiting participants and carrying out your research, performing appropriate analysis, and writing up your work will be invaluable in any workplace. 

Become Unstoppable: Professional Skills

This module will provide students with the skills required to be an effective professional. Students will reflect on their career aspirations, their own wellbeing and that of others within the workplace. 

Optional modules - you will choose two modules from options including: 

Atypical Child Development

This module explores what it’s like for children growing up with various conditions like autism spectrum disorder, Down’s syndrome, deafness, and developmental language disorder, and well as the impact on development of growing up in adverse environments such as poverty.

Brain and Behaviour

This module examines in detail the relationships between behaviour and the nervous system. You will explore these relationships through the consideration of key topics in the field of neuroscience, including learning, psychopharmacology, brain damage, organic brain disorder and mental health.

Educational Psychology

Develops your understanding of the relevance of psychology to education and provides opportunities to apply psychological theory and principles in the field of education and professional practice.

Effective and Affective Thinking and Processing

During this module, you will learn to apply theories and methodologies from cognitive psychology to real-world behaviour. You will explore the influence of emotional processing on human cognition and performance and reflect on the optimal conditions for thinking and decision-making.

Forensic Psychology

An applied module which will introduce you to offender profiling, lie detection techniques and psychological theories of criminal behaviour; guest speakers have included a serving chief investigating officer, a forensic psychologist and a probation officer.

Media Psychology

This module explores the effects that exposure to media has on people, as well as how people process information from media. It looks at advertisement, persuasion, news journalism, social media and internet use, including the use of metaphors in the media. It also covers conversation analysis and discursive psychology.

Occupational Psychology

A practitioner based module which will provide you with a tour of relevant theories and topics (including stress, selection techniques and change at work), as well as an assessment opportunity to apply these in real-world settings, including your own experience in the workplace.

Psychology of Global Issues in the 21st Century

A new module which considers the role of psychology in a global context. You will have the opportunity to use your psychological knowledge to explore the issues of the day.

Psychology and Health

This module aims to introduce you to the concepts, theory, methods and applications of health psychology. It is concerned with the psychological aspects of physical illness, their treatment and management as well as what it is that keeps people healthy and well.

Psychology of Mental Health

Explore conceptualisations of mental health, explanations of mental health., the legal and social ramifications of mental ill health, the range of conditions treated within psychiatry and different therapeutic modalities and agencies.

The Psychology of Extreme Violence

The psychology of serial homicide, mass shooting, and terrorism. The module also explores the neurodevelopmental and psychosocial risk factors in serial killers and mass shooters, the pathway to intended violence in such extreme cases of violence and the neuropsychodynamics of individuals who commit serial homicide and single homicide.

Work Placement

The work placement will give you the opportunity to put what you've learnt into practice.

Optional modules (counselling) - choose two from:

Expressive Therapies

Explores the range of therapies that allow us to express ourselves.

Bereavement and Loss

An in depth exploration of these important experiences in all our lives.

Counselling and Mental Health

You will learn how counselling is used in specific contexts and with specific mental health issues.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Skills

On completion of this module you will be able to describe and critically evaluate the key features of the CBT model and discuss new developments in CBT. As well as developing highly relevant and useful skills, this module is very important for supporting your future employment in those services that require these specialist skills.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

75%

Coursework

25%

Exams

Teaching

Throughout your course, you’ll be supported by expert and award-winning staff, including authors of books and papers in a range of specialisms, some of whom have appeared on national television and radio. Robert Bendall is recognised as the UK’s number one Psychology Technician of the year 2011 by the British Psychological Society.

The psychology team are research active and have been recognised at both international and national levels for work on driving, media, child development, addictions, clinical and health psychology, occupational stress, emotional intelligence and terrorism. The team are proud of the quality of psychology courses we deliver and are committed to providing stimulating and rewarding opportunities to study psychology – either as a single discipline, or in combination with counselling or criminology.

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Group work
  • Practical counselling skills sessions
  • Problem-based exercises
  • Computer-based learning
  • Online discussion boards

Assessment

Assessment methods will vary depending on the modules you choose to study, you can expect:

  • Exams 25%
  • Research report 25%
  • Essays 25%

The remaining 25% will be split between:

  • Assignments
  • Practical reports
  • Group work
  • Presentations

Psychology Laboratory

Our Psychology Laboratory provides a comfortable and friendly environment for you to carry out a wide range of psychological testing. These include:

  • The eyetracker laboratory uses the Tobii x50 eyetracker to monitor conscious and unconscious gaze movements.
  • An observation suite with a two-way mirror.
  • A video game analysis laboratory where you can analyse the psychological and physiological effects of violent video games.
  • A dedicated computer suite that allows access to a range of psychological programs such as ERTSLab and E-Prime.

You will also have access to:

  • Dedicated psychology laboratory cubicles.
  • Private interview rooms.
  • Dedicated social learning space.

School of Health and Society

We are focused on enhancing the health and wellbeing of patients, service users and athletes and our commitment to public involvement helps us retain our strong focus on real-world issues.

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

Our graduates have taken a range of jobs within a variety of fields gaining employment in Bolton Primary Care Trust, General Medical Council, Victim Support and Witness Services. Following graduation you may decide to continue your studies with us on the MSc Applied Psychology (Addictions), MSc Applied Psychology (Therapies), MSc Media Psychology or a vocational course such as the Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy, MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy Studies (Professional Training) or MA Social Work.

Past graduates have gained employment as an assistant psychologist, mental health support worker or within drug and alcohol services. You may decide to pursue a career as a chartered psychologist. Alternatively, you may take a role within advertising, marketing or retail. Whatever direction you choose, the key skills within this degree ensure that you will be both accomplished and imaginative in your career.

How do I become a qualified psychologist?

All practising psychologists must have postgraduate qualifications which means there isn’t a fast-track route to a career in psychology. To become a chartered psychologist, you need to gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership by completing a BPS-accredited degree. You can then look at further training in your specific field of interest. An undergraduate degree in psychology is typically the first step on the ladder for those wanting to become a psychologist. It generally takes around six years to become fully qualified, usually including a full three-year degree and three years of postgraduate training.

Further study (generally 1 - 2 years) will also be required for areas such as teaching, HR and counselling. You can find more information about careers in psychology on the BPS website.

Further study options

A taste of what you could become

A chartered Psychologist, A counsellor, A guidance counsellor

A victim support worker, A mental health support worker

A psychological wellbeing practitioner, A youth worker

A Forensic Psychologist, A pastoral worker, An educational psychologist

A Teacher, A HR professional, A health psychologist

And more...

Career Links

The British Psychological Society (BPS) accredits this course – if you achieve a lower second-class degree or above, a Graduate Basis for Registration is awarded. This is the first step to becoming a chartered psychologist. 

Requirements

What you need to know

APPLICANT PROFILE

Your application will demonstrate a good understanding of the disciplines of psychology and counselling. You will have strong written skills and an aptitude for research. You will also have a desire to explore all areas of psychology and enthusiasm to understand human behaviour. You will have an interest in helping others, and the emotional strength to engage in practising your counselling skills.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need IELTS 6.0 with no element below 5.5. We also accept a range of other English language qualifications. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the Pre-Sessional English course, or the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.

Standard entry requirements

GCSE

GCSE Maths, English & Science (science preferred) C/4 or above, equivalents accepted. 

You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.

UCAS tariff points

112-120 UCAS Tariff points.

A-Levels

112-120 UCAS Tariff points.

BTEC National Diploma

DMM

T-Levels

T Level - Merit.

Foundation Degree

60% pass mark.

Access to HE

112-120 UCAS Tariff points.

Scottish Highers

112-120 UCAS Tariff points.

Irish Leaving Certificate

Equivalent of 112-120 UCAS Tariff points.

International Baccalaureate

31 points

European Baccalaureate

Pass in Diploma of at least 65%.

International Students

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements. If you do not meet the entry requirements, you could take the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.

Alternative entry requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We welcome applications from those who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.

 

How Much?

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2025/26 £9,250.00per year
Full-time international 2025/26 £17,650.00per year

Additional costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Scholarships for international students

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our International Scholarships

Apply now

All Set? Let's Apply?

Still have some questions? Register for one of our Open Days or contact us:

By email: enquiries@salford.ac.uk

By phone: +44 (0)161 295 4545

Enrolment dates

September 2025

UCAS information

Course ID CL85

Institution S03