University of Sunderland United Kingdom

Counselling

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Top Up Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Counselling Top Up Degree at the University of Sunderland offers a pathway for those seeking to deepen their understanding and practice within this vital helping profession. As counselling becomes increasingly professionalised, practitioners are expected to critically evaluate their effectiveness, apply research findings, and contribute to the field's knowledge base. This course is specifically designed for you to thrive in this evolving environment, equipping you with the skills to navigate complex therapeutic relationships and evidence-based practice. You will explore enhancing your therapeutic practice through critical evaluation and personal development.

This undergraduate degree is studied full-time on campus over one year, immersing you in modules such as Enhancing Therapeutic Practice, Research and Evidence in Counselling, and Contemporary Approaches to Mental Health. You will develop essential research skills, critically examine mental health theories, and refine your understanding of integrative practice. A significant component of your learning will involve undertaking a comprehensive Counselling Dissertation, allowing you to conduct an in-depth literature review on a negotiated topic. You will graduate with enhanced analytical and reflective capabilities, prepared for advanced roles in counselling settings.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in therapeutic practice, equipping students with essential skills for effective counselling. You will explore research methodologies and evidence-based approaches relevant to the field, alongside contemporary perspectives on mental health and illness. The curriculum culminates in a dissertation, allowing for in-depth exploration of a chosen topic within counselling practice.

1 Year 1 (national level 6):

Enhancing therapeutic practice Compulsory
Research and evidence in counselling Compulsory
Contemporary approaches to mental health and illness for counselling practitioners Compulsory
Counselling dissertation Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

34% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,574.00 USD 23,654.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 15,574.00 USD 23,654.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 566.00 - USD 939.00
Food & Groceries USD 6,283.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 886.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 5,639.00
Estimated Total USD 9,586.00 - USD 13,694.00

Living cost estimates are based on Sunderland Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationClinical & Medical ServicesCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied Health

Top Employers Hiring for this course

NHS

Newcastle University

Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV)

Together for Children

Why Study Counselling at University of Sunderland

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

University of Sunderland typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Sunderland in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Counselling at University of Sunderland

Can I work while studying?

International students can work part-time while studying; up to 10 hours for diploma courses and 20 hours for degree courses during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks, and no separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you need an IELTS overall score of 6.0 and at least 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Alternatively, a PTE overall score of 59 with the same minimum in each section is accepted.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Counsellor, Mental Health Worker, Psychotherapist, Social Worker, Life Coach.

What will I actually study in this course?

This Counselling course focuses on the professionalization of practitioners and emphasizes evaluating the effectiveness of one’s practice. Additionally, students will learn to apply research findings to advance knowledge in the field.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the Counselling course is in September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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