Studying BA (Hons) Guidance and Counselling at Northumbria University provides a valuable foundation for those who wish to use guidance and counselling strategies as part of a job role within a range of ‘helping’ professions or as basis for further research or professional training.

This theoretically rich subject draws upon a range of disciplines including Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy. You will be encouraged to develop critical thinking, to be able to recognise the inequalities and discriminatory practices encountered by people in everyday life and to consider strategies to influence and bring about change.

You will engage with a range of learning experiences that include group work, case studies, enquiry based and experiential learning, as well as the more traditional lecture-based approach. Applying theory to practice is a central theme of the course and you will take part in a number of experiences to enable you to develop your skills such as peer mentoring, careers interviews and group facilitation. Work placements and study abroad options are available for a full year between your second and final years, with the additional option of a placement during your second year.

BA Hons Guidance and Counselling at Northumbria is unique in being the only undergraduate programme that qualifies you to enter the career guidance profession, just one of the areas graduates can go into. Our graduates offer a unique skillset which equips them for a wide range of job roles within education, health and community settings, many which support mental health and well-being, an area where there is growing demand. Students can also use their degree as a basis for further study or professional training in areas such as Counselling, Teaching or Social Work. Please note that in order to qualify as a Counsellor you would need an additional qualification and observed experience in practice – something many students choose to do.

Why choose Northumbria to study Guidance and Counselling?

• Top University - Counselling, Psychotherapy & Occupational Therapy at Northumbria is ranked 7th in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024.
• A Research Powerhouse - Social Policy is ranked 3rd in the UK for research power in the UK out of 76 submissions (REF, 2021). This represents a rise of 15 places compared to 2014.
• Student Rated - 100% of students studying Guidance and Counselling at Northumbria thought staff made their subject engaging & supported their learning, and believed that their course introduced subjects & skills in a way that built on what they’d already learned (NSS, 2023).