Course overview
Build degree-level knowledge through practical, career-focused study.
Combine core psychology with counselling approaches, mental health, therapeutic skills, psychological assessment and an independent research project.
Course overview
This BPS-accredited programme combines the full psychology curriculum with specialist study in counselling and mental health. Students develop research capability alongside practical insight into counselling approaches, assessment, wellbeing and the therapeutic process.
Study options
The course is available through UK-campus blended learning and flexible online study. Arden currently lists Daytime blended, Evening blended attendance for the campus route. Online study is designed around flexible access to teaching materials and scheduled academic support.
Professional development
Learning and assessment are designed to connect academic knowledge with current professional practice and transferable workplace skills.
Curriculum
Explore the complete Level 4, 5 and 6 module structure.
04Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
- Introduction to Studying Psychology20 credits
- Social Psychology20 credits
- Exploring Research in Psychology20 credits
- Developmental Psychology20 credits
- Biological Psychology20 credits
- Cognitive Psychology20 credits
05Level 5
Level 5 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 5
Level 5 · 120 credits
- Qualitative Research Methods20 credits
- Quantitative Research Methods20 credits
- Positive Psychology20 credits
- Personality and Intelligence20 credits
- Approaches to Counselling Psychology20 credits
- Core Counselling Skills20 credits
06Level 6
Level 6 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 6
Level 6 · 120 credits
- Psychological Assessment and Formulation20 credits
- Counselling Psychology, Mental Health and Illness20 credits
- Health and Psychological Wellbeing20 credits
- Managing the Therapeutic Process20 credits
- Counselling Research Project40 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Assessment can include assignments, essays, reports, presentations, case studies, portfolios, roleplay and research work.
The counselling modules use applied tasks that connect psychological evidence with professional and therapeutic contexts.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic entry
- Two subjects at GCE A Level or equivalent, plus passes at grade C or above in three subjects at GCSE level or equivalent.
- A recognised Access to Higher Education programme or an accepted equivalent may also be considered.
English language
- IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, TOEFL iBT 80, or an accepted equivalent.
- Previous study in English may be accepted with suitable evidence of the medium of instruction.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Arden states that published fees relate to the intake on which the student enrols, rather than the application date.
Students who require a visa to study in the UK may be charged the fee associated with their home country.
Funding your study
This course is listed as eligible for Student Loans Company funding to help with tuition fees and other study expenses, subject to personal eligibility.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited.
Eligible graduates can gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the BPS.
Develop core counselling skills and complete a 40-credit counselling research project.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Career directions
- Counselling psychology pathway
- Mental health services
- Psychological wellbeing support
- Community support
- Research
- Human resources
- Further counselling or psychology training
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Can I study this course online?
Yes. Arden currently lists a flexible online route for this degree.
Is UK-campus study available?
Yes. Current UK locations are Birmingham, Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham. Exact campus and timetable availability depends on the selected intake.
When can I start?
The current application options list September 2026, October 2026, November 2026. Exact availability should be confirmed before application.
Who awards the degree?
The degree is awarded by Arden University.