Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Skills (Validated by the Ulster University)

This course has been designed for people who are interested in developing a career in counselling or who wish to improve counselling aspects in their present work. It will enable you to understand and develop the knowledge and skills which underpin the counselling process. Please note, all applications must be received by 5PM on Friday 16th May 2025. Late applications will not be considered.


Academic Year: 2025/26
Course Code: 10937
Campus: Lisburn
Study Type: Part-Time
Education Level Higher Education
Department: Health & Care

Available Sessions

We have 1 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn.

Course Structure

The course is delivered in modular form and combines theory with practical skills training. You will study the following modules:

  • CMM013 The Helping Relationship level 4 20 credits
  • CMM116 Personal Development And Interpersonal Communication Level 4, 20 Credits
  • CMM103 Practical Application of the Helping Relationship Level 4, 20 Credits

This programme is based on a hybrid learning model with a focus on face-to-face delivery.

It will enable you to understand and develop the knowledge and skills which underpin the counselling process.  

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.

AND

  • Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics as above) at GCSE level (grades A* - C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

ROI Requirements5 OL Leaving Cert.[L3 LC].Grade 04-01.

Accreditation of Prior Learning 

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).   Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

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

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

All candidates will be interviewed.

Please note, all applications must be received by 5PM on Friday 16th May 2025.  Late applications will not be considered.

You will be assessed through written assessments. This course also involves triad work.

Successful completion of this course may enable you to progress to the Foundation Degree in Counselling or to BSc (Hons) Professional Development in Counselling (top-up from the Foundation Degree) Level 6 and then to other Level 7 postgraduate courses. Please note that additional academic or other requirements will be stipulated for each of these progression routes.

Successful completion of this course does not confer fitness to practice counselling, but graduates who meet the entrance requirements may progress to the Ulster University Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice which does.

There are no additional costs for this Programme

This course is accredited by the University of Ulster.

Course Modules Course Modules CMM013 The Helping Relationship level 4 20 credits CMM116 Personal Development And Interpersonal Communication Level 4, 20 Credits CMM103 Practical Application of the Helping Relationship Level 4, 20 Credits

Available Sessions

We have 1 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn.

Enquiries Information

For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.

Available Sessions

Title Campus Start Spaces Fee Apply or get more information
Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Skills (Validated by the Ulster University)
Y10937LD1A-25/26-PT
Lisburn
15/09/2025
Day: Monday

Time: 09:30-13:30

7 £789.00

Please select a campus from the list above to view the available sessions.

Customer Enquiries

Need more information or have a question about this course? Send us a message below and we will get in touch.

Start New Enquiry

Terms & Conditions

Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Higher Education

Higher Education

If you have just completed your A-Levels, Higher Education is most likely the option for you. HE usually covers HNC, HND & Foundation Degree level of courses including our Higher Level Apprenticeships.

Explore Higher Education