Psychological Studies with Counselling

Psychological studies with counselling is a combination that brings together the academic and empirical study of the mind with the applied skills of therapeutic practice. Psychology is a scientific discipline that examines how people think, feel, perceive, learn, and behave, drawing on biological, cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical frameworks to build knowledge about mental functioning. Counselling adds a practical and relational dimension, developing the skills to listen deeply, communicate empathically, and support people through emotional and psychological difficulty.

Together, the two provide both the theoretical grounding and the applied training to work in roles connected to mental health and human wellbeing.

Birkbeck College's part-time BA Psychological Studies with Counselling is designed for students who want to explore both disciplines from an academic and applied perspective, as the course itself describes. Birkbeck's distinctive identity as a provider of higher education for adult learners means the programme is well suited to people who need flexibility alongside a rigorous academic experience. You will develop a comprehensive view of mental functioning, integrating key theories and practices from both psychology and counselling, building the knowledge and skills to support careers in mental health, social care, education, and applied psychology.

Graduates work in counselling roles in the NHS, education, the voluntary sector, and private practice, or in related positions in mental health support, social work, human resources, and community organisations. The psychology element, depending on accreditation, may provide a basis for further professional training in a chartered psychology specialism. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in counselling, psychotherapy, or a psychology specialism, building on the foundations the degree provides.