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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 4,025
Per year
Start Date
2025-10-01
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
24 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Foundation
Major
Counselling | Therapy and Rehabilitation
Area of study
Welfare
Education type
On campus
Timing
Part time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 4,025
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2024-10-01-
2025-10-01-
About Program

Program Overview


The Psychodynamic Counselling program at Birkbeck provides a foundation for professional and voluntary roles in counselling. It emphasizes self-reflection, psychodynamic theory, and practical experience, preparing students for further training or careers in helping roles. The part-time program is accessible to individuals with no prior training and is taught by experienced clinicians and researchers.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:

  • The Psychodynamic Counselling program offers a foundation for developing skills and knowledge for professional and voluntary roles, or as preparation for clinical training.
  • The course focuses on self-reflection, the relationship between inner and outer worlds, application of psychodynamic theory in practice, and social and organizational factors influencing the professional counselling context.
  • This part-time program is offered over two years, with one weekly class taking place either during the day, evening, or on Saturdays.
  • No prior training is required, and hands-on, practical experience is emphasized, covering various counselling and therapeutic approaches.
  • Instructors are experienced clinicians and active researchers.

Highlights:

  • Birkbeck has a long-standing reputation in counselling training, with the first program established in 1972.
  • You will be learning in a prestigious academic department with a recognized track record of excellence among employers.
  • The course features practical experience and does not require prior training, covering a range of counselling and therapeutic approaches.
  • Your teachers will be senior, experienced clinicians and active researchers.

Outline:


Course structure:

  • The program consists of four modules:
  • Inner and Outer Worlds: psychoanalytic and psychosocial understandings
  • Listening, self-reflection and the counselling framework
  • Psychoanalytic theory and practice
  • Psychodynamic Counselling in a Psychosocial Framework
  • The course is designed for part-time study over two years, with one weekly class held during the day, evening, or on Saturdays.
  • Completion of all four modules (totaling 120 credits) is required to receive the Certificate in Higher Education (CertHE).

Year 1 Modules:

  • Inner and Outer Worlds: Explores psychoanalytic and psychosocial understandings.
  • Listening, self-reflection and the counselling framework: Develops essential skills in listening and self-reflection within the counselling framework.

Year 2 Modules:

  • Psychoanalytic theory and practice: Delves into the theoretical foundation and practical applications of psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
  • Psychodynamic Counselling in a Psychosocial Framework: Examines the interaction of psychodynamic principles within the broader context of social and cultural influences on counselling.

Assessment:

  • Assessments are 100% coursework-based, including evaluations of counselling skills development and theoretical understanding.
  • Coursework will likely consist of essays, written assignments, case studies, presentations, and practical demonstrations of counselling skills.

Teaching:

  • Teaching methods in the program are likely to involve lectures, seminars, and practical classes.
  • Lectures will present an overview of essential topics while seminars will provide opportunities for in-depth exploration and discussion with fellow students.
  • Practical sessions will involve role-playing, simulations, and other activities to develop counselling skills.
  • Students will have access to support from a named personal tutor.
  • Teaching hours are typically between 6pm and 9pm, with day-time teaching available on some programs.
  • Independent study and preparation are crucial elements of the learning process, requiring significant self-directed learning outside of class.

Careers:

  • This certificate program lays a strong foundation for pursuing further training in counselling and psychotherapy, but it is not in itself a complete accreditation for professional practice.
  • Graduates can explore career options in various helping roles within organizations and communities.
  • The Birkbeck Careers and Enterprise service provides support and guidance throughout your career journey.

Other:

  • No prior entry qualifications are required, although work experience is highly valued, particularly for applicants without formal academic backgrounds.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and self-reflection skills are essential for success in the program.
  • Birkbeck offers various learning and development support services, including academic skills training, writing guidance, and disability and dyslexia support.
  • Mental health and counselling support services are also available to students who require assistance during their studies.
  • The program offers an excellent introduction to psychodynamic principles, therapeutic skills, and the theoretical foundations of counselling practice, while also preparing graduates for further training in the field.
  • The course has a strong reputation and is delivered by experienced and respected professionals in the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

  • Part-time home students: £4,025 per year
  • Part-time international students: £4,025 per year
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Courses

Birkbeck University of London


Overview:

Birkbeck University of London is a public research university located in central London. It is known for its evening and weekend classes, catering to students who are working or have other commitments. Birkbeck is a member of the prestigious University of London and is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.


Services Offered:

Birkbeck offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Admissions:

    Guidance on entry requirements, financial support, and application procedures.

    Student Services:

    Support with academic and personal matters, including careers advice, financial aid, and disability services.

    Library:

    Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources and study spaces.

    Business Services:

    Support for businesses and entrepreneurs, including training, consultancy, and networking opportunities.

    International Students:

    Dedicated support for international students, including visa guidance and cultural integration programs.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Birkbeck provides a vibrant and diverse student community with a strong focus on evening and weekend study. Students can expect:

    Central London Location:

    Access to the city's cultural and social attractions.

    Flexible Study Options:

    Evening and weekend classes to accommodate working students.

    Supportive Environment:

    Dedicated student support services and a welcoming community.

    Career Development:

    Opportunities for career advancement through internships, networking events, and career advice.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    Prestigious University:

    Part of the University of London, renowned for its academic excellence.

    Flexible Study Options:

    Evening and weekend classes for working professionals.

    Central London Location:

    Access to the city's cultural and social attractions.

    Research-Led Teaching:

    High-quality teaching informed by cutting-edge research.

    Strong Career Support:

    Dedicated career services to help students achieve their career goals.

Academic Programs:

Birkbeck offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

    Arts:

    History, English, Philosophy, Languages, and more.

    Sciences:

    Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, and more.

    Social Sciences:

    Economics, Sociology, Politics, Law, and more.

    Business:

    Management, Finance, Marketing, and more.

    Humanities:

    History of Art, Music, Theatre, and more.

Other:

Birkbeck is committed to public engagement and research with impact. The university actively promotes its research findings and engages with the public through events, lectures, and publications.

Total programs
410
Admission Requirements

Language Proficiency Requirements:


English Language Proficiency:

For applicants whose native language is not English or who have not completed their education in an English-speaking environment, the following English language proficiency requirements must be met:

  • IELTS Academic Test: Minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no score below 6.0 in any sub-test.
  • Other English Language Tests: See the Birkbeck website for other accepted English language tests and their equivalent IELTS scores.

Visa and Funding Requirements:

  • Non-UK students without residency may require a Student visa for courses exceeding six months' duration or a Standard Visitor visa for programs under six months.
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