CPCAB Level 4 Diploma In Therapeutic Counselling

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

Course Entry Requirements  

• Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills 
• Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
• APEL / RPL (prior learning, see below) equivalent

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

Admissions

• When you have applied, you will be sent an application form which must be completed and returned by 5PM on Friday, 16th May 2025 
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Successful completion of the admissions process. This will include a formal scored interview. Interviews will be conducted between May and June of year of enrolment.
• Applicants will be informed of admission decisions after the completion of interviews.

APEL

• Provide evidence of ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the accreditation of prior experiential learning.  Further details on APEL can be found in the admissions section and must satisfy CPCAB Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy that can be found at CPCAB APEL Process

Candidates will be assessed via a number of methods, in each of the seven key modules. These assessment methods will include tutor and peer feedback on therapeutic counselling skills practice, group supervision, weekly learning reviews and summaries, essays, assignments, presentations on theory, agency and supervisor reports, case studies on peer skills practice (Year 1)  and your client work (In Year 2) 

You may progress onto:

• Level 5 Diploma in a specialist subject.
• You will want to work toward BACP accreditation as a counsellor which will require you have a minimum number of post qualifying (TC-L4) hours practice.
• Successful completion of the TC-L4 Diploma will enable you to proceed to further study or possible employment.

The cost of personal counselling and in some cases the cost of supervision while in placement could be in the region of £1800.