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Psychology and Counselling - BSc/MSci
Currently viewing course to start in 2025/26 Entry. Switch to 2024/25 Entry
The BSc (Hons) Psychology and Counselling will be of particular interest if you are thinking about a career as a Counselling Psychologist, Psychotherapist or a Counsellor. The course has been carefully developed to enable graduates to gain the required knowledge base, practical skill and emotional awareness and maturity required for these, normally postgraduate professions....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BSc/MSci
- Start date September 2025
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Social Sciences
- Faculty Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences
This course is:
Available with Professional Placement year
Open to International Students
Overview
The BSc (Hons) Psychology and Counselling will be of particular interest if you are thinking about a career as a Counselling Psychologist, Psychotherapist or a Counsellor. The course has been carefully developed to enable graduates to gain the required knowledge base, practical skill and emotional awareness and maturity required for these, normally postgraduate professions. Whether or not further study is for you, an in depth exploration of – among other things - human development, mental health and distress and practical listening and relationship building skills will prepare graduates for range of people-focussed roles with adults, young people and children.
This course integrates traditional psychology teaching with the theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy into unified course which enables an early focus on applied practice without any loss of the rigour of a pure psychology degree. The course team consists of chartered psychologists and accredited, practising psychotherapists and counsellors, ensuring the theoretical and practical relevance of your student experience.
MSci Psychology and Counselling
On the BSc (Hons) Psychology and Counselling degree, you have the opportunity to apply for the MSci Psychology and Counselling course, turning your three year degree into a four year combined master’s degree. MSci Psychology and Counselling isn’t available via direct application, and is only available to those studying Psychology and Counselling at undergraduate level.
Applicants will need to demonstrate the core personal and professional competencies specified by professional accrediting bodies as part of the application process, including among other things self-awareness, maturity, stability, resilience, the ability to be reflective, to receive and work with feedback and to cope with the demands of the course and of the profession.
This qualification enables students to apply for individual registration with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Successful graduates of the MSci Psychology and Counselling are therefore able to practice or obtain employment as BACP registered counsellors, and / or to proceed to further BPS accredited training and qualifications.
For more information, please read the MSci Psychology and Counselling course specification.
What's covered in this course?
While some modules focus more centrally on the discipline of psychology, and others on the associated field of counselling, the key focus throughout is on the integration of the two areas to offer a unique focus on both the theory and the practice of Psychology and Counselling. The optional work placement module in year 2 enables you to gain valuable practical experience, and this together with practice focussed modules in each year ensures a good balance between theory and practice throughout the course.
Progression opportunities
On this course (BSc Hons Psychology and Counselling, you will have the opportunity to apply for the integrated MSci Psychology and Counselling course, turning your three year degree into a four year combined master’s degree. The MSci Psychology and Counselling is not available via direct application and is only available to those studying Psychology and Counselling at undergraduate level. The MSci qualification will enable you to apply for individual registration with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This makes the BSc in Psychology and Counselling highly attractive as successful graduates of the MSci Psychology and Counselling (which is only open to application to those students studying the BSC Psychology and Counselling) are able to practice or obtain employment as BACP registered counsellors, and/or proceed to further BPS accredited training and qualifications.
Professional Placement Year
This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.
If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course.
Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.
Accredited By
This course is accredited by:
Why Choose Us?
- We have a strong focus on employability and through placement opportunities and our links with local businesses, we aim to ensure you graduate not only with your degree but also with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on your chosen career.
- We aim to infuse learning with exposure to real-world experiences. Through participation in the Social Impact Hub, we give students the chance to work on real-life projects. These offer a unique opportunity for students to gain this invaluable experience while they study.
- This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and gives you Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) when you pass the course.
- Our staff are research active, allowing research-informed teaching and learning activities. You will be given the opportunity to learn and participate in a number of research projects throughout the year and we hold regular academic research seminars, which are recorded for our online students.
- We are dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry in the realm of psychology, and our state-of-the-art facilities reflect this.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Open Day: 28 September 2024
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2025/26.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Essential requirements
112 UCAS Tariff points. Learn more about UCAS Tariff points.
Please note: If you qualify for our BCU Accelerate scheme, you could receive an offer that is two grades below our normal entry requirements. Find out more about BCU Accelerate.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc/MSci
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £9,250 in 2025/26
- Apply via UCAS
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
- Register with UCAS
- Login to UCAS and complete your details
- Select your course and write a personal statement
- Get a reference
- Pay your application fee and submit your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
- Course choice - Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
- Career plans - If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
- Work experience - Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
- School or college experience - Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
- Non-accredited skills or achievement - eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Worried about Personal Statements?
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Course in Depth
First Year
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits):
This module begins the process of self-development and self-awareness that is foundational to all counselling and psychotherapy practice, a process that remains key throughout the career of a professional counsellor or psychotherapist. As such it is highly experiential, and aims to link theory to practice on an on-going basis. The module will identify some of the key theoretical and philosophical developments which underpin the psychology of self- development, self- awareness and the dynamics of human relationships. This will include an exploration of the informing theory and practice of mindfulness, presence, positivity, resilience and compassion based practices. Theoretically grounded concepts which aim to define and explain a therapeutic relationship will be explored, and where relevant applied to practical contexts.
This module explores the origins, developments and refinements in the study of modern-day Psychology, dating back to early philosophy. The module will ensure students will see how modern-day Psychology has evolved, not just in terms of the “big-names” but also by viewing the scientific, cultural and social movements and influences that were happening alongside the development of this new discipline.
This module focuses on current and historical understanding of personality and individual differences. We review the main theories of personality and use contemporary empirical evidence to explore the complex relationship between personality and behaviour. In-depth examples of the complexity of individual differences will be provided, and some lectures will focus of personality disorders and problems assessing and classifying such disorders.
The academic component of this module provides you with an experiential learning process that will further develop your understanding of the complex theoretical and conceptual issues involved in the measurement and assessment of personality and individual differences. In particular, the seminar component will provide you with the opportunity to experience projective and objective personality tests and to further explore the problems associated with diagnosing personality disorders.
This module introduces you to the process of conducting research, analysing data and evaluating the findings. The module will provide a conceptual understanding of reporting research, the core statistical principals and tests used. The module provides hands-on experience of conducting an experiment, using statistical software for carrying out analyses and writing up the experiment in practical workshops. This module will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills required to prepare you for future work, training or careers in an applied area of Psychology or research. This module will also identify how the skills and knowledge gained during this module are relevant to future modules that cover GBC competencies and training which are relevant to future work and studies in the area of Psychology.
This module will focus on the different aspects of non-verbal communication, including facial expression, tone of voice, gesture and body language from an evolutionary, cultural and neuro-biological perspective. The way non-verbal communication is perceived and processed, and contributes to the overall communication process will be explored from both a practical and a conceptual perspective. Rapport and relationship building based on the non-verbal communication skills and attunement will offer practical experience as a basis for integrating theory and practice. The use of creative media as communication will contribute to a wider understanding of the range of ways in which therapeutic communication can take place. The module will also include a consideration of the role of non-verbal communication in the digital era
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules:
Introduction to Psychopathology, will introduce you to psychological disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, addiction etc. and how these psychological disorders have an effect on daily thinking, functioning and behaviour. The assessment and diagnosis process of a psychological disorder will play a central role in this module and this will be done by using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5; 2013). The DSM-5 (2013) is used by clinicians worldwide to assess and diagnose individuals with a psychological disorder. In this module the DSM-5 (2013) will be used to describe the key symptoms of psychological disorders which will help to enhance your understanding of key symptoms and criteria used by clinicians to diagnose a psychological disorder.
The parapsychology module focuses on exploring how Psychology is placed in the wider domain of “science” and through debates about the meaning and function of parapsychological belief, parapsychological research, and the social/historical relevance of parapsychology. Throughout the module you will be presented with a number of parapsychological topics (e.g., Alien abduction; Telepathy; Clairvoyance; Demonic possession) which will be underpinned by two broad perspectives: (i) believer and (ii) sceptic. You will be introduced to the methodological, theoretical and psychological problems in examining paranormal belief and experience in order to provide opportunities for the development of semantic learning and critical thinking skills.
This module explores the roots and informing principles of positive psychology, focussing on research and current developments internationally. Beginning with the seminal work of Martin Seligman, the module focusses equally on theory and practice, identifying the informing philosophy, the research base for the study area, and some practical strategies which aim to increase a sense of subjective well-being and positive mental health. The clinical value of the approach is explored via an integration of research, practical strategies and personal reflection.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Second Year
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits):
This module builds on the learning of Non-verbal Communication and Self and Relationship by supporting the development of practical Counselling Skills based on an in-depth appreciation of underlying theory and process. By applying the self-awareness developed in Self and Relationship and building on understanding of non-verbal channels of communication, this module provides an opportunity to learn about and practice active listening and to use the generic counselling skills as employed in all talking therapies. This will be grounded in a further appreciation of the elements that go to make up human relationships, and is a growing awareness of the differences between social and therapeutic relationships. The use and application of counselling skills will be considered through the lens of the main broad philosophical bases, namely the Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic perspectives, while retaining a relational focus. This module is taught in parallel with and strongly informed by its companion module Counselling Theory.
This module provides you with an overview of the purpose, design, and conduct of qualitative research in psychology. This module builds upon and complements research methods modules delivered in level 4 by providing students with grounding in the use of qualitative research methods and analysis techniques commonly used in psychology. All sessions are structured to facilitate both conceptual learning and the development of applied research skills. More specifically, this module aims to help you develop skills in research and inquiry and develop academic attributes such as being able to think critically about different methodologies and knowledge claims.
This is a companion module to Counselling Skills, and provides the solid theoretical foundation upon to build skill and competence in active listening and relationship building. The module will explore philosophical underpinnings as part of a more detailed exploration of the main counselling and psychotherapy theories. The broad approaches of Humanism, Behaviourism, Cognitive Behaviourism, Constructionism, Psychodynamic approaches, Existentialism and Transpersonal approaches will be explored from the perspective of human health, suffering and the possibilities of therapeutic change. Integration as an overarching approach will be included as part of this process, and students will develop basic skill in integrative case formulation from a theoretical perspective.
This module builds on the Research Methods and Psychology literacy module (Level 4), by providing you with the skills to master the process of designing and executing research using quantitative research methods, and analysing and evaluating the findings with quantitative data analysis techniques. The module provides hands-on experience of using computer software to build experiments and statistical software for carrying out analyses in the practical workshops. The module will enhance your skills in critically evaluating the strengths and limitations of published research papers and equip you with an advanced understanding of ethics in psychological research.
This module will continue to develop key transferable skills from level 4 such as group discussion and debate, critical evaluation and evidence-based reasoning. There will be research-led teaching which will explore key debates and methodologies used in neuropsychology and cognitive Psychology. The GBC area of biological Psychology and cognitive Psychology will be supplemented through this module.
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules:
The practical approach to this module will see you applying psychological theories to the real world via your experiences from work-based placements. This will allow you the opportunity to learn from your own experiences, but also experiences of your colleagues. This module will continue to develop key transferable skills such as group-work, critical evaluation and evidence-based reasoning contributing to the graduate attributes. This module has a strong link with professional development and will allow you to reflect on work placement experiences and the application of psychological theory. There is a strong integration of psychological theory and real world experiences across different domains, thus strongly supporting your continuing personal and professional development.
This module builds on the clinical and health-based modules on the programme by providing you with an in-depth and critical understanding of stress, which is one of the main risk factors for both psychological (e.g. anxiety, depression) and physical health outcomes (e.g. heart disease, cancer). In this module, you will learn about the biological, psychological and environmental influences on stress, as well as the interaction between them. Key literature on stress-related illness across a wide-range of disciplines will be critically appraised.
This module will explore how culture influences human thought, feelings, cognitive processes and behaviour in an applied context. The relations between culture and psychology are both complex and profound. We will be considering a number of difficult questions including: What is human nature? What happens when different cultures collide? How do various ways of thinking differ across cultures? How does culture influence how we view ourselves? How can we study culture in psychology? How do cultures change or persist over time? The goals of the module are to introduce you to the field of cultural psychology, stimulate critical thinking and analytic skills generally, and help you to think about your own values from a cultural perspective.
This module offers a clinically focussed specialisation extension of the principles and practice explored in Neuropsychology. In contrast to the informing philosophical and theoretical basis of Counselling and Psychotherapy practice explored in modules Counselling Skills and Counselling Theories, this module draws on emerging findings from Neuroscience and Neuropsychology to develop an alternative, research informed basis for understanding and working with human suffering. The work of clinicians and researchers in the field such as Daniel Siegel, Allan Shore, Pat Ogden, Louis Cozolino, Bessel van der Kolk and others will be explored and considered against concepts from philosophically based clinical theories.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Professional Placement (Optional)
In order to qualify for the award of BSc/MSCI (Hons) Psychology And Counselling with Professional Placement Year you must successfully complete the following module.
Please note, that for BSc Psychology and Counselling students, the professional placement year relates to the Psychology component of the programme only. Students cannot undertake a professional counselling placement as part of the BSc programme. Students who progress to the MSci Psychology and Counselling undertake a professional counselling placement during their fourth year of study.
This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to undertake a credit bearing, 40- week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Undergraduate Degree. The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able to develop and enhance your understanding of the professional work environment, relevant to your chosen field of study, and reflect critically on your own professional skills development within the workplace.
Final Year (BSc)
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits):
This module focuses on the ethical and professional issues involved in the practice of counselling and psychotherapy. In addition to exploring the practical aspects of the profession such as contracting, referrals, managing boundaries, there will be a consideration of wider issues such as culture, belief systems, sexual orientation, risk assessment, collaborative working and the on-going role of supervision. A key aim of the module is to provide experience in ethical decision making through engaging in ethical discourse. The concept of vulnerability will be considered from the perspective of responsibility and power, and the current legal safeguarding framework and process for clinical practitioners will receive consideration.
This module aims to investigate human development throughout the lifespan focusing on changes to biological, cognitive, social and emotional elements of psychological functioning. The module will provide you with an understanding of the general principles and concepts, different theoretical perspectives, research methodologies, contemporary debates and areas of application of Lifespan Development. This module will enable you to develop skills in critical reading and analysis of theoretical and empirical issues related to Lifespan Development. In the context of contemporary societies and globalisation, the role of social and cultural context of development is explored.
Understanding research issues is an essential skill for psychologists operating in an evidence-based paradigm. The ability to produce an in-depth dissertation and present a logical argument using such research is a crucial skill for a successful psychology graduate.
This module builds upon learning at level 4 and level 5 in previous Psychological Research Methods modules. This module will encourage you to plan, execute and write up a research project which adheres to principles of the Psychology Ethics Committee. You should seek out research sources to produce an in-depth dissertation that answers your own identified research question or knowledge gap, making a contribution to the existing literature within your chosen topic area. This will be facilitated through critical evaluation of the sources you have selected and used. You will also be facilitated in using statistical and other specialist software, testing equipment and materials, as well as the use of the Psychology laboratories.
The applied social psychology module focuses on exploring how social psychological theory and research can be applied to real life. Throughout the module you will be presented with a number of contemporary social issues and will explore relevant theoretical models and examples to illustrate the impact that social psychological constructs, theories and research has had on informing applied interventions. Theoretical perspectives might include cross cultural psychology, individual differences, and critical social psychology. Contemporary social issues might include encouraging cooperation with authorities, understanding responses to terrorism, reducing prejudice, and promoting employee production.
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules:
This module integrates the learning in respect of counselling knowledge, skills and practice gained elsewhere on the programme in preparation for clinical placements for those planning to proceed on to further professional counselling or psychotherapy training. A critical appraisal of purist approaches versus eclecticism or more integrative approaches will enable you to begin to make decisions about your preferred approach to counselling. On-going practical application of counselling skills, self-reflection and peer-based feedback will support the consolidation of self-reflexivity essential for clinical practice.
This module covers fundamental areas and phenomena of Intellectual and Developmental disabilities, exploring competing perspectives, contemporary debates and important areas of application. The module looks at Intellectual and Developmental disabilities pre-natal, post-natal and across the lifespan.
The module will explore the types of research methods, theoretical perspectives and questions of value, culture and context. The role of brain functioning will be considered throughout this module. This module will also identify how the skills and knowledge gained during this module are relevant to GBC competencies and training which are relevant to future work and studies in the area of Psychology. This module will be of particular interest if you would like to explore a career as an educational or clinical psychologist.
This module equips you with the relevant skills, knowledge and training which are required for understanding the psychology of gender and sexualities. In undertaking this module, you will gain the relevant knowledge of psychological perspectives of gender and sexualities, including their conceptualisation and organisation in relation to cultural and historical circumstances. You will evaluate psychological theory and apply theoretical concepts and knowledge to develop arguments relating to gender and sexuality. Additionally, you will be encouraged to examine the relationship between theory and practice in psychology in order to identify the links between psychological knowledge and its application. As part of your learning, you will analyse the construction of sexuality and gender in society and will be encouraged to develop awareness around how such conceptualisations impact on various social groups and psychological practice.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
MSci
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
The emphasis of this module is on preparation for and starting placement. You will apply the knowledge and practical skills you developed during year 2 and three of the BSc and begin to develop a critical appreciation of the way in which theory underpins practice. You will integrate and apply your understanding of the ethical principles, establish working contracts with clients, and learn how to use supervision effectively.
This second semester module continues the monitoring of all professional practice components of the course. By the end of the module you will be required to include evidence that you have completed 100 hours of supervised clinical practise and 30 hours of personal therapy as evidenced in your professional practice portfolio, an assessment component of this module. During this module you will be required to apply your theoretical knowledge and understanding to the practice of counselling with clients in a placement setting. You will learn how to assess clients and will be supported through placement and course supervision to make oral case presentations and develop your clinical decision making skills in order to manage the counselling process through all stages from start to finish.
This module integrates the knowledge and understanding gained in PSY5068 Counselling Theories and Concepts, PSY5069 Interpersonal Neurobiology and PSY6113 Integrative Counselling: Skills and practice during years 2 and 3 of the BSc Psychology and Counselling professional pathway. Your personal integrative model for thinking about clients (begun in PSY6113) will be supported and refined in this module and will form the foundation for applying theory to practice through clinical case formulation. You will be supported to develop and apply a model of assimilative integration based on a core of Person Centred theory and integrating a range of elements from neurobiology, research findings and evidence based theory. Outcome studies and wider research papers evaluating the effectiveness of theoretically informed interventions will support this process.
This first semester module develops the groundwork laid down in PSY6112 Counselling Ethics, and explores ethical decision making in greater depth, with specific reference to counselling practice. You will undertake an in depth consideration of the BACP Codes of Ethics and practice and apply these to your own emerging practice. You will explore legislation relevant to counselling practice and identify the practical implications of, among other things, safeguarding, anti-discrimination legislation and data management on their practice. The importance of life-long personal and professional development is a key requirement for counsellors, and this module will support you to develop an understanding of your obligations and responsibilities of in the context of professional counselling practice. Throughout the module the emphasis will be on the application of ethical principles to practice.
This second semester module focuses on the range of mental health difficulties experienced by clients seeking counselling. The learning gained in PSY4034 Introduction to Psychopathology in the first year and in PSY5069 Interpersonal Neurobiology in the second year of the BSc Psychology and Counselling will be brought to together and refined in this module. Understanding of the importance of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma on adult mental health will form a key component of this module enabling you to identify and explore appropriate interventions with clients whilst recognising approaches and interventions that are not indicated for trauma related distress.
This module places the process of individual counselling with a distressed client in a wider social, and cultural context, and explores the potential of this process to make a difference. The knowledge base of this module will draw on the content explored in year 6 of the BSc in PSY6095 Applied Social Psychology and will focus on locating counselling practice in the real world. Societal inequalities and their impact on mental health, as well as cultural help seeking mores will be considered, and you will be supported to gain an insight into the interaction of socio-economic, political and cultural factors on individual well-being.
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![The British Psychological Society](https://cphfcrflaa.cloudimg.io/_bcuimages/the-british-psychological-society-280x158-130790246517586733.png?w=200)
The British Psychological Society
The Society and its members develop, promote and apply psychology for the public good. They enhance the efficiency and usefulness of psychologists by setting high standards of professional education and knowledge, and cover all areas of psychological research and practice.
Find out more about British Psychological Society accreditation.
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
Our graduates will not only gain a degree with some of the most diverse career options, but also the transferrable skills to support this.
Importantly, all content is underpinned by active learning - degree content and assessment not only meet the criteria for our accrediting body, but allow flexibility of the learning process, which can be tailored to career goals. Specific modules dedicated to employability skills and creation of impact within the local community will further support this.
International
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Details of the entry requirements for our courses
- Some of the good reasons why you should study here
- How to improve your language skills before starting your studies
- Information relevant to applicants from your country
- Where to find financial support for your studies.
Facilities & Staff
Our Facilities
We are constantly investing in our estate and have spent over £400 million on new learning facilities.
![](https://cphfcrflaa.cloudimg.io/_bcuimages/group-psychology-lab-split-133389842769958248.jpg)
Psychology Labs
Explore the cutting-edge psychology labs, their resources and spaces that support our quest to unravel the complexities of the human mind and behaviour.
Learn about the Psychology Labs
![Curzon with Millennium Point and Parkside](https://cphfcrflaa.cloudimg.io/_bcuimages/rbthe-curzon-building-exterior23727-133222348237522809.jpg)
The Curzon Building
This course is based at our City Centre Campus – and specifically The Curzon Building, alongside other social sciences, law and business students.
The £63m building offers students a unique social learning space, including a dedicated student hub incorporating student support services, in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside development.
Realistic, simulated environments include two mock court rooms, a Magistrates' and Crown Court, and an interviewing suite. We’re also exploring the use of virtual environments as a way to develop case study analysis.
For those studying on the BA (Hons) Professional Policing or BA (Hons) Criminology, Policing and Investigation degrees, you’ll experience simulations of police interviewing environments for both suspects and witnesses, with access to tape recording and video playback analysis.
Crime investigation files are prepared using computer-based technology, and the crime data analysis requirements of the degree are supported by appropriate statistical and analytical software.
Psychology students can look forward to using state-of-the-art equipment as well, including the latest in eye-tracking software, and our new EEG machine, all geared towards giving you true hands-on experience with tools you’ll be using in your later career. You will also benefit from facilities across the wider campus including the Parkside and Millennium Point buildings.
The Curzon Building also features:
- An impressive library with access to over 65 million full text items and stunning views of Eastside City Park
- Your Students’ Union which is located in a beautifully restored 19th century pub, The Eagle and Ball
- A modern 300-seat food court with space to study and socialise
- Accessible IT facilities with full Office365 for all students for free
- Shared facilities with the wider campus including the Parkside Building and Millennium Point
Our staff
Ruth Roberts
Course Lead for BSc Psychology and Counselling
Ruth is course lead for the BSc Psychology and Counselling programme. She is a BACP senior accredited counsellor / psychotherapist and a qualified supervisor. She has been in practice since 2004 and has worked as a full-time lecturer in counselling since 2017. Ruth has worked in a variety of settings including private practice and renal counselling...
More about RuthJulia Gillies-Wilkes
Assistant Lecturer
Julia Gillies-Wilkes is an accredited psychotherapist working in private practice.
More about JuliaDr Fran Renwick
Associate Professor, Academic Lead: Counselling & Psychotherapy
Teaching enables Dr Fran Renwick to share some of the knowledge and practical skills she has gained as a psychotherapist with extensive experience in clinical practice, supervision and service management.
More about Fran