All applications must satisfy Ulster University general entrance requirements for certificate and Diploma programmes. The standard offer for this programme is 5 GCSEs (Grade A, B or C) or equivalent. Competence in written and spoken English is required and certificated evidence of GCSE English Language or accepted equivalent is required.  Level 2 Essential Skills in Communication is acceptable.

Where an applicant does not hold the formal academic requirements for entry to the programme but can demonstrate relevant experiential learning across a range of industries, they may apply for admission through the College Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) process. In such cases, contact the Programme Director for the programme who will advise further.

Candidates should note that APEL may not be used to evidence the English Language requirement (GCSE or equivalent). 

The application process involves submission of an application and completion of interview to establish suitability. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide certificated evidence of entry qualifications with their college application to be considered for interview. Successful completion of all components of the admission procedures contribute to the overall admission decision. Applications will be processed in the first week of June 2026, and interviews will take place on the second last week of June 2026. Where the number of places is oversubscribed, additional criteria will be used, and candidates will be called for interview by date order of application. Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee an interview, as places may fill before all applications are reviewed. Interviews are limited to 15 places per cohort. Early application and qualifications uploaded is therefore advisable.

Closing date for applications is 30th May 2026.

Programme International Entry Requirements:

Any applicant whose first language is not English should demonstrate their competence in written and spoken English. Usually, the minimum English language entry requirement is IELTS (academic) of 6.0 (with no band score of less than 5.5 in all four elements of the test).

We accept a wide range of alternative English language examinations and tests so please contact us for an updated list of other accepted tests.

Assessment is normally 100% coursework. You will complete a range of assignments which draw on your authentic experiences to increase your personal and professional development and reflective ability, self-awareness, and practical communication skills for helping. Assignments may include personal learning records, case study and a practical skills evaluation. You also have opportunities for formative feedback throughout the programme.

Graduates from this Certificate programme, who are interested in practicing counselling as a professional, may progress to the Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice, which is awarded by Ulster University and accredited by the BACP.  See programme details for full entry requirements.

In considering progression to the Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice only, for those students without the necessary 48 UCAS points achieved through A’ Level, (which are required for entrance to the Foundation Degree), the L4 Ulster University Certificate in Counselling Studies is accepted as an alternative route for progression, since Ulster University recognise the important personal development, competencies and skills achieved on the Certificate programme. Please note that progression to the Foundation Degree also requires applicants to hold a qualification in Maths, Essential Skills Level 2 Use of Number is accepted as a minimum. Contact the Programme Director catherine.mcintosh@swc.ac.uk for information on this option.

Please note that successful completion of the Ulster University Certificate in Counselling studies is a desirable criterion for application to the Ulster University Foundation Degree in Integrative Counselling Practice and will be used for selection purposes where programmes are over-subscribed.

This programme will introduce you to the interpersonal and counselling theory and skills that are useful if you wish to work effectively in a helping role with people in a range of professional and personal contexts.

This part-time programme is delivered 1 day per week over two terms between September and June. Attendance is mandatory and should not be less than 90% of the programme.

Omagh Campus: Tuesday 9:00am -12:30pm and Wednesday 6:00pm – 9:30pm

Dungannon Campus: Tuesday 6:00pm – 9:30pm

Enniskillen Campus: Tuesday 6:00pm – 9:30pm

Teaching and Learning is typically achieved through a blended approach which combines face to face lectures and seminars, individual and peer group work and seminars, digital and online resources. You will draw on personal and professional experience and there is an emphasis on practical role play and triad skills work with peers.

Please note: Triad work is an essential part of this programme in terms of skills practice, personal reflection, and assessment.

Programme Director:

Omagh Campus: Nuala McNulty

Email: nuala.mcnulty@swc.ac.uk

Dungannon Campus: Catherine McIntosh

Email: Catherine.mcintosh@swc.ac.uk

Enniskillen Campus: Colin Swift

Email: Colin.Swift@swc.ac.uk

All tutors are qualified and experienced counsellors. This underpins the authenticity of teaching and learning activities as students engage with practitioners who understand the challenges and opportunities of the counselling or helping role. Information about the teaching team who deliver on the Certificate in Counselling can be obtained from roisin.bradley@swc.ac.uk or Alastair.mccarley@swc.ac.uk

https://www.swc.ac.uk/discover/public-information/terms-and-conditions

Once accepted to the course, students are required to:

• Comply with College Policies and procedures, rules and regulations (available in your Student Diary/Higher Education Handbook and on the College VLE).

• Submit all coursework and assessments by specified dates, coursework submitted without consent after the deadline shall not normally be accepted.

• Pass all coursework with a minimum mark of 40% achieved in all modules.