Free Access to HE Counselling Course in Harlow

Name: Free Access to HE Counselling Course in Harlow
Availability: InStock

CostFREE

Duration1 year

LevelLevel 3

DeliveryClassroom based

Start7 Sep 2026

Study modeFull-time

AttendanceDaytime

Awarding bodyCAVA

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About this course

Free Access to HE Counselling Course in Harlow. Classes run at Harlow College, full-time during the day on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This level 3 access to HE counselling qualification takes one year and prepares adults for degree-level study at university. It covers counselling and psychology, and opens routes into degrees in subjects such as Psychology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, Criminology, and Sociology. You'll need at least Level 2 Functional Skills English and Level 1 Functional Skills Maths to join.

Who this course is for

This course is suitable for anyone who wishes to go to university and is taken by adults aged 19+. There is no upper age limit.

his pathway is for those who wish to study for a Counselling and/or Psychology degree at university or undertake the Higher National Diploma at college. The Counselling Diploma programme is the most suitable route for you if you are looking to go on to study a degree in subjects such as: Psychology, Psychology with Counselling, Criminology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, Education with Psychology, Sociology, Psychology with Professional Development or other similar subjects.

What is an Access to Higher Education course?

An Access to Higher Education course is a 1 year pre-university course that prepares adults for study at university. This course is ideal if you have been out of education for a while, planning a career change or upskill in your current job. A typical Access course is 2-3 days a week, 9.30am-3pm and are taken by students of all ages and backgrounds.

Entry requirements

Minimum Level 2 Functional Skills English or equivalent English qualification.

Minimum Level 1 Functional Skills Maths or equivalent Maths qualification.

What you will learn

You'll explore the foundations of counselling theory and practice.
You'll study key psychological concepts and how they apply to human behaviour.
You'll examine sociological perspectives relevant to counselling and psychotherapy.
You'll develop academic writing and research skills needed for university study.
You'll analyse ethical frameworks used in counselling and mental health settings.
You'll build critical thinking skills through assignments and reflective work.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom across three days a week. Learning is delivered through tutor-led sessions, group discussion, and independent study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams. The programme is designed to build the academic skills universities expect, so assessment is ongoing throughout the year rather than concentrated at the end.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Harlow College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

Counsellor. Work with individuals in community or private settings.
Support worker. Provide emotional and practical support to clients.
Mental health support worker. Assist people managing mental health conditions.
Youth worker. Support young people's wellbeing and development.
Family support worker. Help families through difficult periods.
Probation services officer. Work with offenders in rehabilitation settings.

What you could study next

BSc or BA Psychology. A natural next step after this access to HE counselling qualification, accepted by many universities.
BA Counselling and Psychotherapy. Degree-level training leading toward professional counselling practice.
BA Criminology. An option for those interested in behaviour and the justice system.
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Counselling or Psychology. A college-based alternative to a full degree, available at Level 5.

Apply on harlow-college.ac.uk →