Access to HE Counselling Course in Stevenage

Name: Access to HE Counselling Course in Stevenage
Price: 3384 GBP
Availability: InStock

CostCheck if you can do this free

Duration1 year

LevelLevel 3

DeliveryClassroom based

Start3 Sep 2027

Study modeFull-time

AttendanceDaytime

Awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. £3,384 if you're not eligible for free funding. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact North Hertfordshire College for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Access to HE Counselling Course in Stevenage. Classes run at North Hertfordshire College Stevenage Centre, full-time during the day. Fees may apply depending on your age and circumstances, though an Advanced Learner Loan may be available to help with costs.

The course runs over one year and prepares you for degree-level study in counselling and related subjects. You'll explore counselling theory, psychology, human development, and communication skills. Please note the course itself does not qualify you to practise as a counsellor. It is a university access course designed to open the door to degree study.

You must be at least 19 years old to apply. You'll be invited to an Access Fast Track event at the Stevenage campus before you start. You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma (Counselling) awarded by Gateway Qualifications.

Who this course is for

This one-year course will give you the skills and knowledge so you can apply for degree-level study in counselling and related subjects.Some of the degree subjects you can progress on to study include: counselling, social psychology, psychosocial studies, and psychology.Please note that the Access to HE Diploma in Counselling itself does not qualify you to become a counsellor.The course is suitable for adults who are committed to enhancing their educational skills and career prospects. This is a blended learning course, delivered one day onsite and one day online. It is perfect for people interested in getting back into study and enhancing their professional prospects

Entry requirements

You must be at least 19 years old. No formal entry requirements for this course but you will be asked to attend an Access Fast Track event at our Stevenage campus. This event will give you the opportunity to hear more about the course and includes a couple of short maths and English tests to help us understand your current abilities. This event will also include a short informal interview.

What you will learn

You'll explore the core theories and approaches used in counselling practice.
You'll study human development across the lifespan, including psychological and social factors.
You'll develop your understanding of mental health and emotional wellbeing.
You'll build academic writing and research skills needed for degree-level study.
You'll examine social psychology and how people relate to one another.
You'll practise reflective thinking and self-awareness as tools for professional development.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at the Stevenage centre, with a mix of taught lessons, group discussion, and independent study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams. You'll build a portfolio of work over the year that demonstrates your understanding across the subject areas covered.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. North Hertfordshire College Stevenage Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

Counsellor, supports individuals through emotional and mental health challenges after further training and qualification.
Support worker, helps people with mental health, social, or personal difficulties in community settings.
Learning mentor, guides students through academic and personal challenges in schools or colleges.
Family support worker, works with families facing social or emotional difficulties.
Advice and guidance worker, helps people navigate personal, financial, or career decisions.

What you could study next

BA (Hons) Counselling, the natural next step and the degree this qualification is designed to lead to.
BA (Hons) Psychology, a related degree covering human behaviour and mental processes.
BA (Hons) Social Work, for those drawn to working with vulnerable people in statutory settings.
BSc (Hons) Psychosocial Studies, combining psychology and sociology for a broad understanding of people and society.

Apply on nhc.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible