Course Overview
This course is delivered through University Centre Somerset. For more information, visit: www.somerset.ac.uk
The CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling is designed for those seeking to qualify as professional counsellors. This nationally recognised qualification enables learners to begin practising in placement settings within an ethical framework such as that of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
A key feature of the course is the counselling placement, which plays a vital role in both personal and professional development.
This qualification consists of seven mandatory units that explore ethical, theoretical, and practical aspects of counselling through an integrative lens. Our chosen model is Integrative Systems Psychotherapy, based on the work of Petruska Clarkson.
The Seven Units: 1. Working ethically, safely and professionally as a counsellor 2. Working within a counselling relationship 3. Working with client diversity in counselling work 4. Working within a user-centred approach to counselling 5. Working with self-awareness in the counselling process 6. Working within a coherent framework of counselling theory and skills 7. Working self-reflectively as a counsellor These units are delivered through a blend of lectures, tutorials, group supervision and experiential activities. Students will also need to attend an overnight residential during the first year.
Progression Options
On successful completion of the course, you will be prepared to provide therapeutic counselling services within the framework of an agency’s service provision.
Entry Requirements
Placement Requirements: You must have completed a Level 3 programme of at least 150 face to face taught hours that includes assessment of knowledge and skills. You will need to commit to 25 hours of personal therapy and obtain an enhanced DBS to be able to complete the placement requirements of the course. All applications are subject to references and interview. Before commencing your placement, you must successfully complete a competency-to-practice assessment. During the placement, you will: • Work within an agency setting to complete a minimum of 100 hours of formally contracted one-to-one counselling with at least five different clients. • Engage in clinical supervision to support your agency-based client work. • Participate in 30–50 hours of group training supervision as part of the course. You will also be required to join a recognised professional body, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the National Counselling Society (NCS), as a student member. Membership involves adherence to an ethical framework or code of ethics. Information on current student membership fees is available on the BACP or NCS websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
The application route depends on your chosen study mode. For full-time undergraduate degrees, you will need to apply via UCAS. If you are applying for a part-time course, a professional qualification, or a Degree Apprenticeship, you can usually apply directly through our website using the ‘Apply Now’ button on the course page. If you need any guidance, our Admissions team is always on hand to help.
Every programme at University Centre Somerset is designed as a ‘Degree for Real Life.’ We focus heavily on employability, meaning your studies will be directly linked to industry needs. You will benefit from work-based learning, live commercial briefs, and our strong regional employer networks. Additionally, our dedicated Careers team offers 1:1 guidance to help you refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and build your professional network.
Transitioning to higher education is a significant step, and we treat you as an independent adult while providing robust support. You will be assigned a personal academic tutor to guide your academic progress. We also offer dedicated Higher Education study skills sessions, library support, and a comprehensive Student Support team providing confidential advice on mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
Most UK students studying a first degree, Foundation Degree, or HND are eligible for tuition fee and maintenance loans through Student Finance England. If you are studying a Degree Apprenticeship, your tuition fees are fully funded by your employer and the government, and you earn a salary while you learn. We also offer advice on eligible bursaries and financial hardship funds – contact our Student Support team for tailored advice.
Yes. We offer dedicated, independent student accommodation tailored for our higher education learners, primarily based at our Taunton and Cannington campuses. Our HE options provide a safe, comfortable, and mature environment that fosters a strong learning community, with easy access to our state-of-the-art campus facilities.
Absolutely. We welcome applications from mature students and those with non-traditional qualifications. We consider a wide range of experience, including vocational qualifications, Access to HE diplomas, and relevant professional experience. If you are unsure whether your current qualifications meet the entry criteria, please get in touch with our admissions team to discuss your individual pathway.
We understand that many of our HE students balance their studies with employment and family commitments. We strive to condense our full-time degree timetables into a few days a week to allow for part-time work or independent study. Our part-time routes are specifically designed to be flexible for working professionals.
We are here to help. You can submit a direct enquiry using the form our Contact page, or you can contact our Higher Education admissions team via email or phone. We also highly recommend registering for our next Open Event, where you can speak directly with the lecturers and tour our advanced facilities.