Psychology and Counselling

Psychology and counselling together provide a rigorous scientific grounding in the study of human behaviour and mental processes alongside practical and theoretical training in the skills of therapeutic communication and personal support. Psychology as a discipline examines how we think, feel, learn, perceive and relate to others, drawing on experimental, cognitive and social research to build an evidence-based understanding of mental life. Counselling studies explores the theoretical frameworks, relational skills and ethical dimensions of helping people to address emotional difficulties, develop insight and find ways forward in their lives.

At the University of Strathclyde, this three or four-year full-time programme is designed to prepare you for further postgraduate training in counselling or counselling psychology, or for employment in support roles where counselling skills and an understanding of therapeutic theory are directly relevant. You will engage with the core areas of psychological science alongside dedicated study of counselling approaches, models of the therapeutic relationship and the professional and ethical responsibilities of working with vulnerable people. The programme develops both your intellectual understanding and your practical interpersonal skills.

Graduates from psychology and counselling programmes use their degrees in a wide range of ways. Many go on to postgraduate training in counselling, counselling psychology or applied psychology, building towards professional registration in one of the recognised therapy professions. Others enter support roles in mental health services, social care, educational settings and community organisations, where the combination of psychological knowledge and counselling skills is directly valuable.

Postgraduate study in psychotherapy, clinical psychology, educational psychology or related health professions provides more specialist preparation for clinical roles, and the degree also provides a strong foundation for academic research in psychology and related disciplines.