All applications must satisfy Ulster University general entrance requirements for certificate and Diploma courses.  The standard offer for this course 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 Course 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 in order 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 2023, and interviews will take place on the second last week of June 2023. 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 28th May 2024.

Assessment is 100% coursework. Students complete a range of assignments which draw on the authentic experience of students to increase their personal and professional development and reflective ability, self-awareness and practical communication skills for helping. Assignments may include personal learning records, case study and practical skills evaluations. Students have opportunities for formative feedback throughout the course.

Graduates from this Certificate course, 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 course 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 Course Director Roisin.bradley@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 courses are over-subscribed.

This course will introduce students to the interpersonal and counselling theory and skills that are useful for those who wish to work effectively in a helping role with people in a range of professional and personal contexts. This part-time course, 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 course.

• Omagh Campus: Tuesday 9.00-12.30 and Wednesday 6.00pm – 9.30pm

• Dungannon Campus: Tuesday 6.00pm – 9.30pm

• Enniskillen Campus: Tuesday 6:00pm – 9.30pm

Teaching and Learning is achieved through a blended approach which combines face to face lectures and seminars, individual and peer group work and seminars, digital and online resources. Students 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.

This programme will be reviewed by Ulster University in 2023/24. The review process involves updating course information, such as the programme title, curriculum content, module titles and teaching and assessment strategies. The college will endeavour to make available the most update information for this course once the review is complete.

2024/25 fees: £475

For 2024/25 fees, please refer to our Fees and Charges Policy on the SWC website