Course overview
This Diploma aims to provide learners with in-depth knowledge of the use of counselling skills in everyday life and work and the approaches that underpin the use of these skills. This qualification does not qualify learners to practise as a counsellor.
Learners on this course come with three different main aims.
• To progress onto a first degree or other higher education course within the field (i.e. you want a career in counselling and need a degree)
• To prepare for a post graduate qualification within the field (ie. you already have a (unrelated) degree but want to progress onto a MA in the field)
• To increase skills and knowledge that will enhance your current role (i.e. professional development) and/or increase job opportunities.
What will I learn
This qualification will build on the knowledge and skills acquired on the level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills. Rather than describing, you will now start to evaluate some of the major debates within counselling. Learners will gain an understanding of a wider range of counselling skills and have the opportunity to examine some of the various schools of thought and theoretical models associated with them.
Personal development and practicing skills are a central aspect of the course and therefore you are required to keep an enhanced learning log.
How will the courses be assessed?
Throughout the course you will take part in a range of activities, for example, presentations, group work, research, independent learning, triads etc. You will be taught by experienced tutors, who will model their counselling skills and show you practical examples. You will use your learning log to reflect on your learning journey. This includes tasks you conduct outside of the classroom.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements are assessed on an individual basis. However, you should have GCSE/ Level 2 Functional Skills in English in place before beginning the course and good IT skills. Ideally you should have L2 Maths and an ICT qualifications, or willing to study these alongside the Counselling Diploma.
For those who already have a degree, we need you to check and provide evidence of the entry criteria to study an MA. Some universities require specific GCSE/ Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications and grades. It is a good idea to check with your chosen universities before beginning the L3 Diploma in Counselling Skills.
Progression
Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to level 4 counselling qualifications. Those who already have a degree but desire to study for an MA in the field are urged to contact universities to ensure this is the right qualification that meets entry criteria.
Nelson and Colne College Group offers the FdA in Counselling Studies and BA (Hons) in Counselling and psychotherapy Studies. After successfully completing the FdA, you have the opportunity to top-up to a full BA (hons) Counselling and Psychotherapy. Both qualifications are validated by Liverpool John Moores University. Other opportunities within the college Group that might be of interest are: BA (Hons) Health and Applied Social Studies, FdA Mental Health Work, FdA Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work, FdA Criminology and Criminal Justice, FdA Teaching & Learning Support and CertHE and FdA Working with Children Young People and Families.