BA (Hons) Counselling Skills and Psychology

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Chester are required to have completed their secondary education with a minimum overall percentage of 65% or above.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 overall, with no individual band score below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based Test (iBT), with no section below 17.
• PTE Academic: A minimum score of 61 overall, with no communicative skills 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.

The University of Chester offers various scholarships and financial support options to international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support students with financial needs, and promote diversity and inclusivity. 

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is available to international undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. The scholarship provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 for the first year of study. The selection is based on academic achievement and personal statement.

Chevening Scholarships: The University of Chester is a participating institution in the prestigious Chevening Scholarship program. Chevening Scholarships are awarded by the UK government to outstanding individuals with leadership potential from around the world. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances for a one-year master's degree.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The university participates in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), offering scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for selected master's degree programs.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships are open to international students applying for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at the University of Chester. The scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction of £2,000 for the first year of study. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship based on their application.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Chester offers country-specific scholarships to students from selected countries. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application process. They are designed to attract talented students from specific regions and support their educational journey at the university.

Alumni Discount: The University of Chester offers an Alumni Discount to international students who have previously completed a degree at the university and wish to pursue further studies. This discount provides a reduction in tuition fees for eligible students.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Counselling Skills and Psychology program at the University of Chester have diverse and rewarding career opportunities in counselling, mental health services, social work, education, research, and community development. They can make meaningful contributions to improving individuals' mental health and well-being across various settings and populations.

1. Counsellor: Graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers as counsellors in various settings, including community mental health centers, schools, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and private practice. They can work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, providing therapeutic support and interventions.

2. Mental Health Support Worker: Many graduates choose to work as mental health support workers, assisting individuals with psychological challenges in accessing services, developing coping strategies, and facilitating recovery. They may work in residential care facilities, crisis centers, or outreach programs.

3. Psychotherapist: Some graduates continue their education and training to become psychotherapists. With advanced qualifications and supervised experience, they can provide more specialized and in-depth therapeutic interventions for clients with complex mental health issues.

4. Youth Counsellor: Graduates may work specifically with children and adolescents as youth counsellors, addressing issues such as behavioral problems, trauma, family dynamics, and academic challenges. They may collaborate with schools, youth centers, and social services.

5. Addiction Counsellor: Those interested in substance abuse and addiction counselling can pursue roles in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and community organizations. They provide support to individuals recovering from addiction and help them develop healthy coping mechanisms.

6. Career Advisor: Graduates with counselling skills and psychological understanding can work as career advisors, assisting individuals in exploring career paths, setting goals, and navigating career transitions. They may collaborate with educational institutions, job placement agencies, or career development centers.

7. Social Worker: The combination of counselling skills and psychology knowledge prepares graduates for roles in social work. They can support vulnerable populations, including children in care, individuals with disabilities, and families in crisis, advocating for their well-being and providing therapeutic interventions.

8. Research Assistant: Some graduates opt for research-oriented careers, working as research assistants in academic institutions, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They contribute to studies on mental health, behavior, and counselling efficacy, helping advance the field of psychology.

9. Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may work in community organizations, developing and implementing outreach programs focused on mental health awareness, prevention, and education. They collaborate with community stakeholders to address local mental health needs.

10. Further Education and Training: Many graduates pursue further education and training in psychology, counselling, or related fields to specialize in specific areas such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or psychotherapy.