Why Leeds?
With great music venues, culture, shopping and parks – we've got it all. Leeds city centre has been named one of the Best Places to Live in the UK*.
*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026
Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Counselling and Mental Health
Learn how to improve the lives of those in need. You'll prepare for a challenging but rewarding career in health and social care on this counselling course.
Course overview
-
B941 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
21 Sep 2026
As part of this counselling and mental health degree, you’ll:
- Explore a wide range of theories within psychology, mental health, counselling, child development and psychotherapy
- Combine theoretical knowledge with your ability to build effective therapeutic relationships
- Study a variety of therapeutic approaches
- Explore psychotherapeutic models including cognitive and behavioural development and look at theories on how mental health issues develop across the lifespan
- Learn how to develop your interpersonal skills in order to build supportive, empathetic relationships between you and your clients
This course will open employment opportunities across a range of roles. However, if you wish to focus on becoming a Counsellor, after graduating you'll be eligible to apply for postgraduate professionally accredited counselling course to fulfil the next step of your training. Our two-year MA Integrative Counselling will enable you to achieve qualified therapist status with the BACP.
This course is suitable for those working in mental health services wanting to further their knowledge and career, or for those wishing to enter the health and care professions.
Tailor your studies
You’ll study a variety of therapeutic approaches and will be able to tailor the course to your career ambitions. On completion, you’ll be able to build positive therapeutic relationships that can foster positive change for your clients, for example with people experiencing anxiety, depression and addiction.
Enhance your career prospects
You’ll practise your counselling and interpersonal skills using our interview and feedback rooms. Engaging with work-based learning opportunities, by volunteering or working in a relevant setting, you'll reflect on how you use your practical skills in the real world. These activities will help you become a confident, globally minded and emotionally mature individual, enhancing your career prospects in counselling and mental health care.
Industry links
This course has been developed to offer awareness of ethical standards of practice. Your learning will be guided by expert academics from across the university, who include qualified and accredited counsellors, mental health nurses and psychologists.
Why study the Counselling and Mental Health course at Leeds Beckett University?
- 96% of students on BSc (Hons) Counselling & Mental Health were positive about the way teaching staff explain things*
- Access to specialist facilities - including our communications suite where you'll enhance your practical skills in a realistic setting
- Explore fantastic work-based learning opportunities
- Learn from industry experts - with access to guest lecturers, speakers, and conferences
- Create the ideal study/life balance - choose full-time or part-time study to suit you
- Study a course shaped by academic research - you'll explore the latest knowledge and industry practices
*National Student Survey 2025
Explore videos and blogs
Why Leeds for health? Employing over 196,000 health and science professionals, Leeds is the UK’s leading centre for healthcare and innovation. Find out why studying here is the right choice for you.
Improving mental health support for BAME communities Maryam Riaz, lecturer in Counselling and Mental Health at Leeds Beckett University, is breaking down barriers to mental health support for BAME communities. Here she talks about her work to encourage people from all backgrounds to consider the counselling profession, and how she is training her students to become culturally aware so they can work confidently with diversity and difference.
BSc (Hons) Counselling and Mental Health | Student view Student Cherise talks about her experiences of studying at Leeds Beckett University.
Counselling and Mental Health - Lawrence Johnston-Bolton Hear from student Lawrence as he talks about his course.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
120
points required
If you’re unsure how to work out your UCAS points we have a UCAS Tariff Calculator which will do it for you. All you need to do is enter your qualifications and let the UCAS Tariff Calculator do the maths.
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
120
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 120 points required.
(Minimum 80 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies).
GCSEs
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy and Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma
Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points.T Levels
Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core.Scottish Awards
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or aboveIrish Leaving Certificate
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above.International baccalaureate
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
How we assess your application
At Leeds Beckett we look for students who demonstrate a good knowledge, curiosity and passion for your chosen course and would benefit from the University’s learning environment.We aim to give every student a fair chance to progress and succeed on their chosen course and we recognise that your grades may not always reflect your true potential. Therefore, when assessing your application, we will consider the following:
- Your completed qualifications (such as GCSEs, A Levels, and their equivalents).
- Your predicted grades in future examinations.
- Your personal statement.
Our offers
All our offers are made by trained professionals who are committed to making offers that are appropriate to each applicant, regardless of their background.* They have the discretion to vary the level of offer to ensure every student with the potential to succeed at Leeds Beckett receives an offer that is achievable for them. This could mean that you may receive an offer to study on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.  Your offer will be based on our belief that you are capable of benefiting from, and successfully completing, your course. We believe that it is people who think differently, independently, people with ‘unlike-minds' that make big things happen.*We operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we consider a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.
Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.
- Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).
Our place as an Anchor Institution
To further strengthen our position as a key provider of education and training for West Yorkshire we apply an Anchor Institution Policy in our admissions process. Students who apply to us from any of the five Local Authority areas in West Yorkshire (BD, HD, HX, LS, WF) may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points.Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade 4 in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
International baccalaureate
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
There are no traditional exams on this course.
What you'll learn
This module provides essential psychoeducation and practical skills for developing resilience at university and in the workplace. During your studies, you'll draw from positive psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive psychology to assist with academic and emotional resilience and wellbeing. You'll learn techniques for developing personal effectiveness, such as confidence building, adapting to change, problem-solving, increased self-compassion and the ability to stay grounded. These attributes will benefit you as you adapt to the demands of university life and the realities of the workplace.
This module introduces students to the psychological theories and frameworks that have formed the basis for practical interventions within the fields of counselling and mental health.
Students learn about a range of key theories and frameworks from the discipline of psychology and how these theories and frameworks have informed practice.
Transition into higher education by developing the academic and professional skills necessary to successfully complete the course and become competent practitioners in a social care setting. You will be introduced to a range of skills which include: study skills, reflection, communication, working to deadlines, management of self and independent learning.
Develop an understanding of the qualities and skills needed for effective communication and engagement skills for practice. You will explore key aspects of verbal and non-verbal communication and relate them to established therapeutic techniques and communication skills theory.
Study current thinking in mental health. You will explore concepts of health and illness as they relate to mental health and describe how services are designed and delivered in current mental health practice.
Gain expertise concerning physical, psychological and psychosocial development across the human life course, in a political, cultural, economic and environmental context.
What you'll learn
Develop your skills and understanding introduced in the Foundational Counselling Skills module. You will gain more knowledge of the counselling process and further awareness of ethical issues.
Build on your intra and interpersonal skills for understanding and working with people experiencing mental health problems. You will study the concepts of mental health, co-production, recovery and person-centred practice as core foundational concepts.
Develop professionally by looking further at the importance of research in counselling and mental health work. You will learn more about different research methods and gain practical experience of critiquing research articles with tutor guidance..
Develop a critical understanding of the key theories of coaching and coaching psychology as well as a reflexive understanding of a range of coaching skills in practice.
You will gain more knowledge of the different forces of psychology and of contemporary therapeutic modalities as applied in practice. You will learn more about a range of key theories and frameworks from the discipline of counselling/psychotherapy and how these theories and frameworks have and continue to informed practice.
Gain insights into the theories, methods and techniques employed when working with client(s) who are culturally different. This includes an exploration of religion and spirituality as core elements of some clients? beliefs, world views and practices through life. You will be encouraged to critically appraise various models of transcultural counselling and cross-cultural perspectives in mental health work. This will help you identify different client worldviews which influence their experiences, some of which may bring them to therapy.
What you'll learn
Further develop your understanding and refine your skills to appreciate the use of self in the development of effective therapeutic relationships and consider professional practice implications.
Enhances the reflective skill you have developed so far on the course. You are encouraged to critically analyse and evaluate ethical issues in working with diverse clients in organisational contexts as well as reflecting on your own personal strengths and limitations of competence in your professional settings.
Study quantitative and qualitative counselling research methodology and complete a research project of their own, thereby helping you to develop research skills, to consider ethical issues, to further enhance your critical thinking, to work independently over a sustained period of time and to articulate your understanding and stance of a specialised area of counselling.
Find your practice and experience within the wider context of mental health. You will develop a critical and analytical understanding of and approach to policy, legislation and practice.
The module content includes exploration of alternative and challenging perspectives on the understanding of mental health issues and how these relate to working with individuals, families and carers in contemporary mental health practice.
Get introduced to specific CBT skills and contemporary approaches to CBT. You are encouraged to apply some of the basic CBT concepts their work based learning.
Fees and funding
£9,790
UK
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
£16,840
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Fees and funding
£9,790
For students entering in 2026
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Final year work-based learning. You can choose a workplace location which is convenient for travel. Travel expenses thresholds are tiered dependent on the location of the organisation where you're volunteering. You can claim public transport receipted costs as follows: regional travel up to £300, national travel up to £500. You'll need to cover any costs above these limits.
- Memory stick (£10).
Optional Costs
- Recording device (£25).
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,840
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Final year work-based learning. You can choose a workplace location which is convenient for travel. Travel expenses thresholds are tiered dependent on the location of the organisation where you're volunteering. You can claim public transport receipted costs as follows: regional travel up to £300, national travel up to £500. You'll need to cover any costs above these limits.
- Memory stick (£10).
Optional Costs
- Recording device (£25).
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
96%
of students on BSc (Hons) Counselling & Mental Health were positive about the way teaching staff explain things
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
The course is great for equipping you with the skills and confidence for real working practice and providing support for those in need. The knowledge gained from the different professional staff ensures you are better equipped to support those struggling with mental health issues, both in the community and those who seek help through the NHS or charitable health organisations.
Cherise Hoffman
BSc (Hons) Counselling & Mental Health
Bryony Walker
Course Director / School of Health
Bryony Walker is Course Director for Undergraduate and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in the Psychological Therapies and Mental Health subject group. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a registered Occupational Therapist (OT) and ILM qualified and practicing coach.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
We’re ranked in the Top 10 universities in the UK for job prospects
(Student Crowd, 2025 - the only awards based entirely on student reviews).
Find out why...
Student life
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us. Find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
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