Ulster University Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Skills

THE 24/25 Ulster University Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Skills Course is now closed. NEW APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. 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 31st May 2024. Late applications will not be considered. This programme is currently under review with Ulster University and as a result some content may be subject to change.


Academic Year: 2024/25
Course Code: 10937
Campus: Lisburn
Study Type: Part-Time
Education Level Higher Education
Department: Health & Care
Course Structure

THE 24/25 Ulster University Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Skills Course is now closed. NEW APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

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

  • The Helping Relationships
  • Personal Development and Interpersonal Communications
  • Practical Application of the Helping Relationship

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

3 hours per week.

All applications must satisfy Ulster University general entrance requirements.

The standard offer for this course is 5 GCSEs (Grade A, B or C) or equivalent. Certificated evidence of English Language is required. If this is not met within the 5 GCSEs, Level 2 Essential Skills in Communication is acceptable. It is the candidates responsibility to provide certificated evidence as required and to present this for inspection at interview.

Alternatively: Applicants may wish to demonstrate evidence of ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning. In this instance applicants will need to make a written submission with supporting evidence and may be invited to a selection interview.

The APEL route will not be accepted as evidence of English Language. Certificate evidence only is required for English Language. Applicants may be asked to provide references regarding their suitability to engage in a counselling course. Preference may be given to those who hold a Level 2 or 3 qualification in Counselling.  

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

Competence in written and spoken English is required.

Candidates who do not meet the general entry requirements may apply for APEL to evidence their ability to undertake the course- please contact the course director as soon as possible for advice.

All candidates will be interviewed.

Please note, all applications must be received by 31st May 2024. 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

Enquiries Information

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Available Sessions

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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.

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