BA (Hons) in Counselling Skills and Sociology, University of Chester

36 Months

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About this course

This combined honours degree offers a unique blend of sociological understanding and practical counselling skills. It is designed for students interested in exploring social complexities and inequalities while gaining hands-on therapeutic approaches. The course emphasizes developing a sociological imagination to critically view society and acquiring counselling skills rooted in ethical and therapeutic principles. Taught by staff engaged in research and practice, students will study current social issues like media influence, racial inequalities, and global challenges, alongside learning to communicate ethically, empathetically, and professionally. The course also prepares for further therapeutic training, making it a practical and academic pathway that combines theory with social and contextual considerations. Students will have opportunities to explore contemporary topics through engaging modules, real-world experience, and innovative assessments, all within a supportive learning environment.

Why this course is highly recommended

Students are taught by faculty actively involved in sociological research and counselling practice, ensuring the learning stays current and relevant. The course offers a vibrant, inclusive environment with interactive workshops, real-world application, and diverse assessment methods. It uniquely combines theoretical learning with practical skills, preparing students for a wide range of careers or further training. Its focus on social issues like inequality, media impact, and social justice, coupled with practical counselling experience, makes it ideal for those wishing to contribute positively to society while gaining employable skills.

Specialisation

This course combines two complementary disciplines—sociology and counselling skills. Students explore themes such as social inequalities, deviance, media representation, race, ethnicity, migration, and social change, while also developing practical counselling skills like ethical decision-making, reflective practice, and therapeutic approaches. The curriculum is designed to enable students to critically examine social issues, understand diverse perspectives, and apply counselling techniques in various contexts. With opportunities for fieldwork, research projects, and potential international experience, students gain a multidisciplinary and applied skill set suited for careers in social work, education, mental health, and advocacy, or for continued professional training in counselling.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

15.25L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a total of 112 UCAS points, which can be achieved through combinations of A Levels, BTECS, or equivalent qualifications. The typical offer includes BCC-BBC at A Level, or DMM in BTEC Extended Diploma, and 28 points in the International Baccalaureate. In addition, applicants must meet English language requirements—an IELTS score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each band for undergraduates. Specific access, T Level, or other qualifications are also considered, with mature students encouraged to apply through foundation courses if needed.

English language test

IELTS

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Chester admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates will find opportunities in fields such as education, social work, law enforcement, counselling, mental health, and advocacy. Roles include life coach, play therapist, social worker, charity worker, and youth worker. The course also lays the foundation for further therapeutic training or academic research, preparing students for diverse roles helping individuals and communities. Sociology graduates can pursue careers in public sector, politics, media, and academia, where their analytical and research skills are highly valued.

FAQs

Is this course a route to becoming a fully qualified counsellor?

This course is Quality Checked by the NCPS, but it alone is not a route to the Accredited Register nor fully equips graduates to practice as a qualified counsellor.

What are the main learning methods?

You will participate in in-person lectures, workshops, peer discussions, and some online activities, with assessments including coursework, presentations, and practical skills practice.