BSc (Hons) Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners

The BSc (Hons) Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners program at UCLan is a specialized undergraduate degree designed to train students as psychological wellbeing practitioners (PWPs) within the field of mental health services. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, focusing on evidence-based interventions for common mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Students learn to assess, support, and provide low-intensity psychological therapies to individuals experiencing mild to moderate psychological difficulties. The curriculum integrates principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), guided self-help, and other therapeutic approaches, emphasizing collaborative and person-centered care. Graduates of this program are prepared to work as PWPs within NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services or pursue further studies in clinical psychology or related disciplines.

1. Psychological Assessment and Formulation: Students develop skills in conducting psychological assessments and formulating case formulations based on CBT principles. They learn to identify psychological difficulties, assess risk, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to clients' needs.

2. Low-Intensity Interventions: The program focuses on training students in delivering low-intensity psychological interventions, such as guided self-help and behavioral activation, to individuals with mild to moderate mental health issues. Students learn how to empower clients to manage their symptoms and improve their psychological well-being.

3. Evidence-Based Practice: Students are introduced to evidence-based practices in mental health, including CBT techniques and other therapeutic modalities supported by research. They learn to critically evaluate scientific literature and apply best practices in their clinical work.

4. Collaborative and Person-Centered Care: The curriculum emphasizes the importance of collaborative and person-centered care. Students develop strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage clients in therapeutic processes, build rapport, and foster collaborative decision-making in treatment planning.

5. Professional Skills Development: Students acquire essential professional skills, such as communication, empathy, cultural competence, and ethical awareness. They learn about the ethical guidelines and legal frameworks governing mental health practice and develop self-awareness and resilience as future practitioners.

6. Clinical Placements and Practical Experience: The program includes supervised clinical placements in NHS IAPT services or other mental health settings, providing students with hands-on experience in delivering psychological interventions under the guidance of experienced practitioners. This practical training enhances students' clinical competence and prepares them for professional practice.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Students should have completed their secondary education with a minimum overall percentage of 60% or above in a relevant qualification equivalent to the UK's General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) or A-levels.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6, with no individual component score below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80, with with no band less than 10.
• PTE: A minimum overall score of 61, with no individual score below 59.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan):

Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship awarded to high-achieving international students. This scholarship provides a significant tuition fee reduction for the duration of the student's program. The selection is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program at UCLan.

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is aimed at international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. This scholarship offers a tuition fee reduction for the first year of study and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The selection criteria include academic achievements, personal statements, and references.

Country-Specific Scholarships: UCLan offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote cultural diversity and encourage international students from specific regions to study at UCLan. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific scholarship.

Sports Scholarships: UCLan recognizes the achievements of talented student athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and sporting pursuits. These scholarships are available for international students who demonstrate outstanding sporting ability and academic potential. The scholarships provide financial support, mentoring, and access to sports facilities and training programs.

Alumni Loyalty Discount: UCLan values its alumni and offers a tuition fee discount to international students who have previously completed a full degree program at UCLan and wish to pursue further studies at the university. The discount is applied to the tuition fees of eligible postgraduate programs.

External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the scholarships offered by UCLan, international students can also explore external scholarship opportunities and funding options. Various organizations, foundations, and governments provide scholarships for international students studying in the UK. UCLan's International Office can provide guidance and information on external scholarship opportunities.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary each year.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners program from UCLan are well-equipped for fulfilling and impactful careers within the mental health sector, particularly in roles related to improving access to psychological therapies and supporting individuals experiencing common mental health difficulties. This program provides graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as psychological wellbeing practitioners (PWPs) within NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services or other mental health organizations.  

1. Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP): Many graduates secure positions as PWPs within NHS IAPT services, where they provide low-intensity psychological interventions to individuals experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression. PWPs deliver evidence-based therapies such as guided self-help and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) under the supervision of qualified clinicians.

2. IAPT High-Intensity Therapist: Graduates may choose to further their studies and training to become high-intensity therapists within NHS IAPT services. High-intensity therapists deliver more intensive psychological interventions, including CBT, to individuals with complex or severe mental health needs. They play a crucial role in providing specialized support and treatment for clients with diverse mental health conditions.

3. Community Mental Health Worker: Graduates can work as community mental health workers within community mental health teams or voluntary sector organizations. They provide support, advocacy, and signposting to individuals with mental health difficulties, helping them access appropriate services and resources in their communities.

4. Primary Care Mental Health Worker: Some graduates find employment as primary care mental health workers within GP practices or primary care settings. They collaborate with GPs and other healthcare professionals to assess and support individuals with mental health concerns, providing early intervention and preventive services.

5. Mental Health Support Worker: Graduates may pursue roles as mental health support workers in various settings, including hospitals, residential care facilities, and educational institutions. They provide practical and emotional support to individuals with mental health difficulties, assisting them with daily activities, social integration, and recovery-oriented goals.

6. Mental Health Advocate or Peer Support Worker: Graduates with lived experience of mental health challenges may choose to work as mental health advocates or peer support workers, providing peer-led support, advocacy, and empowerment to individuals accessing mental health services. They play a valuable role in promoting recovery, resilience, and self-advocacy within the mental health community.

7. Further Education and Research: Some graduates pursue further education by undertaking postgraduate studies in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or related disciplines. They may also engage in research or academic roles within universities, research institutions, or mental health organizations, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field of mental health.