Health & Science Higher National Diploma

Higher National Diploma in Psychology

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in Counselling and Applied Counselling- (Cognitive Behavioral), awarded by the British College of Applied Studies, is a Pearson-assured Level 5 qualification.

Duration 24 Months
Study Mode Part-time
Delivery Hybrid
Programme illustration

Programme Overview

Comprehensive introduction to the programme

The course aims to equip students with the essential skills and attributes needed for roles involving professional responsibility and decision-making, preparing them for successful employment in the field. Throughout the program, students will develop the ability to apply critical thinking to their studies, manage complexity and uncertainty, explore potential solutions, and demonstrate thoughtful evaluations in both theory and practice across a range of therapeutic settings.

Programme Structure

Academic curriculum and module breakdown

  • Semester 1
    • Personal and Professional Development Through Inclusive Practice
    • Developing Empathetic Communication for Effective Therapeutic Relationship
    • Self-awareness and Reflective Practice in Counselling
    • Ethical Frameworks in Counselling
  • Semester 2
    • Theoretical Perspective in Counselling
    • Individual Differences
    • Digital Approaches in Caring Professions
    • Research Preparation
    • Placement (100 hours)
  • Semester 3
    • Counselling Skills Development and Practice
    • Working with Diverse Clients in Therapeutic Counselling
    • Risk and Assessment (Pearson-set)
    • Cognitive Behavioral Approaches to Counselling
  • Semester 4
    • Counselling Skills Development and Practice
    • Risk and Assessment (Pearson-set)
    • Comparative Theories and Approaches in Counselling
    • Psychodynamic Approaches to Counselling
    • Placement (70 hours)

Entry Requirements

Academic prerequisites and admission criteria

Local GCE Advanced level of minimum 2 subjects supported by GCE grades A* to S. GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. Other related Level 3 qualifications in relevant subjects such as Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Psychology. BTEC Level 3 qualification in a related subject, such as BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills.

Career Opportunities

Professional pathways and career progression

Career Path

Entry Level: Upon completion, students will have a solid understanding of the core principles within the area of specialization