BA (Hons) Criminology and Counselling Skills

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.

The combination of criminology and counselling skills equips graduates with a versatile skill set that is highly relevant to various sectors within criminal justice, social services, and community support. They are prepared to make a positive impact by addressing the complex needs of individuals affected by crime and contributing to safer and healthier communities.

1. Counsellor in Criminal Justice Settings: Graduates can pursue roles as counsellors within criminal justice agencies, such as prisons, probation services, or youth offender institutions. They provide therapeutic support to offenders, helping them address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior and facilitating rehabilitation.

2. Victim Support Officer: With a strong foundation in counselling skills, graduates can work with victim support organizations, offering emotional and practical assistance to individuals affected by crime. They provide advocacy, crisis intervention, and long-term support to help victims cope with trauma and navigate the criminal justice process.

3. Community Outreach Worker: Graduates may work in community outreach programs focused on crime prevention and community engagement. They collaborate with local authorities, schools, and community groups to develop initiatives that address social issues contributing to crime and promote community well-being.

4. Substance Misuse Counsellor: Many individuals involved in the criminal justice system struggle with substance abuse issues. Graduates with counselling skills can work as substance misuse counsellors, providing addiction treatment and support to offenders and vulnerable populations.

5. Youth Worker or Family Support Worker: Graduates can pursue roles as youth workers or family support workers, engaging with at-risk youth and families to prevent delinquency, promote positive behavior, and address underlying social or psychological issues.

6. Probation Officer: Some graduates may choose to pursue careers as probation officers, responsible for supervising offenders and developing rehabilitation plans. Counselling skills are invaluable in building rapport with clients and supporting their reintegration into society.

7. Further Education and Specialization: The BA (Hons) Criminology and Counselling Skills program also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study in counselling psychology, criminology, or related fields. Graduates can pursue advanced qualifications and professional accreditation in counselling or psychology.

8. Private Practice or Social Services: Graduates may establish private counselling practices or work within social services agencies, offering individual or group therapy to clients dealing with trauma, addiction, or other complex issues.