Counselling

Key features of the course

• Enables you to qualify as a professional counsellor
• Combines OU knowledge-based modules with work-based learning at a local college or other learning provider
• If you already have the required CPCAB qualifications, you can top up to the foundation degree by studying just the OU theory modules
• Builds a solid foundation for further study.

This programme of study is also offered as the Diploma of Higher Education in Counselling (W09),which might be of particular interest to those living and working in Scotland.

Entry requirements

Although you can begin the Foundation Degree in Counselling without prior qualifications, we recommend that you complete the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling before registering for this qualification as this covers the Stage 1 element of the Foundation Degree.

Once you have completed your CPCAB Level 4 Diploma at a participating CPCAB Centre, you can transfer the 120 credits from the CPCAB Diploma when you register for this OU qualification.

If you have not already completed the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma, you need to make sure that it is delivered by a centre in your area, as otherwise you cannot complete the Foundation Degree. Entry to the CPCAB Level 4 course requires the completion of

• the CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills or its equivalent, plus
• the CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies or its equivalent, such as the OU module, Introduction to counselling (D171) (now discontinued),
• a successful interview with the training provider.

The 'Find a Centre' link on the CPCAB website can help you find where your closest CPCAB Centre is located to complete these three qualifications. You should then contact the centre direct to check it is offering the qualifications in the year you are planning to start studying.

You can find more information about the Foundation Degree in Counselling on the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences website.

Skills for career development

This foundation degree will provide you with knowledge and understanding of the major theoretical perspectives employed within counselling; the historical and cultural context of this profession; and the appropriate professional principles required for effective counselling practice. You’ll also acquire professional skills that are transferable to many other roles in health, social care and education – including the ability to:

• practise safely and effectively in a recognised model of counselling
• act in accordance with the relevant legal, ethical and procedural boundaries
• make professional judgements and interventions
• reflect on, review and audit your professional practice.

Career relevance

This foundation degree in counselling allows you to:

• practise as a professional counsellor in a wide range of settings, from the statutory to voluntary sector
• work with a diverse range of people and issues such as mental health problems, relationship problems, physical illness and trauma.

It also provides the required hours of specified learning which – with appropriate practice, supervision and personal development – will enable you to apply for individual accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). You can also use it as a staging post for further professional development, including the possibility of topping up to an honours degree.

Exploring your options

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice. This includes online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser.  Some areas of the website are available to see at any time, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience:

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