Psychology, Counselling and Coaching

Psychology, counselling, and coaching together address the science and practice of understanding and supporting human behaviour, wellbeing, and development. Psychology provides the scientific foundation: the empirical study of how people think, feel, learn, and behave, and what the determinants of mental health and difficulty are. Counselling introduces the theory and practice of therapeutic relationships, examining how skilled listening, empathy, and structured dialogue can help people work through personal difficulties.

Coaching applies psychological understanding to the development of goals, performance, and potential in non-clinical contexts such as work, sport, and personal development.

At the University of Bedfordshire, this four-year, full-time programme includes a placement, giving you direct experience of working in a professional context relevant to your studies. The placement is a significant part of the degree: psychology, counselling, and coaching are all disciplines where practical experience alongside academic learning is particularly valuable, and the opportunity to observe and participate in real settings before you graduate develops skills and self-awareness that purely classroom-based study cannot replicate. You will study the core areas of scientific psychology, including cognitive, developmental, social, and biological psychology, alongside counselling theory and skills, coaching psychology, and the ethical and professional frameworks that govern applied psychological practice.

A typical entry tariff of 88 UCAS points indicates the accessible entry route the programme offers.

The degree develops both scientific literacy and applied interpersonal skills, preparing you for roles that require the ability to understand and support people in a range of contexts.

Graduates work in counselling, coaching, mental health support, human resources, occupational health, education, and the voluntary sector. Many proceed to postgraduate training in clinical or counselling psychology, coaching, or psychotherapy. Others enter management or development roles where psychological understanding is an asset.