Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Master of Arts Integrative Counselling, Level 7, 2023/24 - Course Handbook
Welcome to the Course
Welcome to our students to the MA Integrative Counselling course. This handbook provides you with information that you will need on your course. You should find it helpful when you first start, when you are preparing for assessment and at any time that you need help or advice in connection with your studies here. You will also receive a module handbook for each module you study on your course.
On behalf of our University and the course team we would like to wish you well in your studies, and we will do our very best to ensure you have a valuable and enjoyable experience here.
Paul Nicholson, Course Director and Dr John Hills, Level Leader
Welcome to your course in the School of Health. I am delighted to be able to welcome our new and returning students and apprentices into the 2023/24 academic year.
The year ahead will contain success, challenge, and personal growth for you, and the School's team of dedicated academics, learning officers and administrators are here to help you to achieve your potential.
Our School has a broad range of disciplines, including Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Nursing and Healthcare, Nutrition and Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Psychological Therapies and Mental Health, Safety and Environmental Health, Social and Community Studies and Sports and Exercise Therapy teams. Our academic teams work collaboratively - drawing on each other's expertise to support learning, undertake professional practice and consultancy, and delivery internationally recognised, societally impactful research.
Throughout the year ahead please do take time to let us know what you are enjoying and what you find valuable - but also please let us know if there are things we could do differently to improve your experience through feedback to your Course Director, at the School Forum or through the module evaluation and surveys.
I wish you every success for this academic year!
Dr Duncan Sharp, Dean of School
Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is led by students for students! Their mission is to make your uni life better! Your Student Officer Team is elected by you to lead the Students' Union into the academic year. They represent all Leeds Beckett students and campaign for the changes you want to see in the university and beyond. They do this by representing your interests, giving you the chance to socialise and meet new people, hosting CV-boosting opportunities, and providing advice and support when you need it most. Shape your own experience by submitting your thoughts through your Course Rep, or if you'd like to influence the Students' Union's policy stance on particular issues or share ideas for improving the student experience across the University, submit your ideas on the Have Your Say platform, which is designed to make change happen! Below you'll find information on a few of their services but if you've any questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Silas Ozoya, your Academic Experience Officer, also wanted to say a few words to introduce himself: "Hey There! I'm Silas, your Academic Experience Officer. It's my job to ensure your academic experience at Leeds Beckett is the best it can be! We're a friendly and open-minded bunch at LBSU, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us! I'm looking forward to meeting you very soon!"
Contact LBSU at:
Email: lbsu-welcome@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 812 8400
Website: www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk
- Following the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and advice from the Department for Education, we currently anticipate that no social distancing measures will be in place on campus during the 2023/24 academic year, enabling a normal on-campus experience. Our aim is to ensure that our students experience Leeds Beckett University, our courses, campuses, facilities and services to the fullest extent possible, while maintaining an environment where students and staff feel safe.
- In all cases, the health and safety of students and staff is our priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, the Department for Education and all other recognised government agencies (such as the Office for Students) in full and keep matters under close review at all times. The advice and restrictions may change before and/or during the academic year, either nationally or in response to local conditions and rates of infection and include the need for social distancing measures and other restrictions. Our flexible delivery model allows us to revert to a blended and/or remote delivery model if this becomes necessary. In a worst case scenario it is possible our campuses may need to close.
- In the event that delivery is restricted as a consequence of pandemic restrictions, we will keep you informed of planned changes as they arise, to ensure you are provided with accurate information.
Key Contacts & Keeping in Touch
Simon Madley, s.madley@leedsbeckett.ac.uk, 0113 812 1912, Portland Building room 513
Your Course Representative's details will be provided via MyBeckett.
The Academic Librarians for this course can be contacted at: sohlibrary@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Or complete their online form for help with academic and research skills: Get Help form
Freedom to Speak up Guardian
See details here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/freedom-to-speak-up/
The contact details of other key services, such as Student Advice, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, the Library, Student Money, Careers, Students' Union Advice Service and Students' Union Student Voice Team can be found on the Students web page.
Academic and administrative staff at our University use your student email address to contact you. It is important that you check this account regularly. You can forward emails from your student email address to a preferred personal email address, however, quarantine and spam filters needed by our University mean that emails sent from external email addresses may be delayed, blocked or deleted. It is therefore important that your student email address is the only email address that you use to contact University staff. Information on how to access your student email address can be found on the Library Student IT Support page http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/office365/outlook
Please make sure that you inform your Course Administration team whenever you change your address and contact details. It is important that you also update your records yourself. You can do this via the My Account/Update my Data tab on MyBeckett. This will ensure we can always contact you in an emergency, and that you receive any important University communications that we may need to send you.
We will inform you of class activities and course notifications, including any cancellations, normally through MyBeckett announcements and/or emails. For each module, the Module Handbook will include the preferred method of communicating general information about that module to you.
MS Teams is part of the Office 365 suite used by staff and students for communication and collaboration:
- Access via MyBeckett on University devices as well as on personal mobiles via a free downloadable app.
- Participate in online meetings and video conferencing in groups or one-to-one.
- Work on shared content, ideas, projects and online learning.
- Utilise breakout rooms to create more dynamic sessions
Further information is available on the Library's MS Teams FAQ web page.
Timetable Information
The University’s standard term dates are available on our Academic Calendars web page.
Taught sessions, both mandatory and optional, will be scheduled and included in your online timetable. Depending on your course, this may also include scheduled online teaching and learning sessions where student engagement is required at a specified time or tutor pre-recorded lectures.
Normally, timetables will be made available to continuing students on 31st July and during induction week for new students via:
- The Student Portal (MyBeckett)
- The Leeds Beckett app
You should discuss any difficulties relating to your engagement with timetabled sessions with your Course Administrator.
Course Overview
The aims of the course are to provide an inclusive education and training in therapeutic counselling and psychotherapy that meets the standards for professional recognition by the BACP; to offer a systematic and thorough education and training in integrative counselling via Relational approaches to therapeutic counselling and psychotherapy; and to develop an advanced critical reflexive understanding of the theory, practice and research of counselling and psychotherapy.
Students gain a critical and comprehensive understanding of Relational theory and practice and learn how to apply therapeutic counselling and psychotherapy skills with clients. Through supervised practice, which follows the BACP core curriculum, students identify their strengths and areas for development, ensuring they become capable and self-reflective practitioners. The BACP advises that integrative counselling looks at the whole person, taking into account mental, physical and emotional needs and the therapist uses techniques and tools from different modalities to tailor an individual approach for their client.
The course also aims to accommodate the personal and professional challenges of being a counsellor through reflective practice and original contribution to the field via research and a dissertation.
- A systematic and empirically-informed understanding of Relational theory in the provision of a professional practice approach to counselling.
- A critical understanding and reflexive ability to integrate a range of theoretical approaches into a coherent model of practice.
- The capabilities to integrate and synthesise theoretical and experiential knowledge into a reflective practice approach necessary for critically engaging with diversity, anti-oppressive practice and contemporary social issues in professional counselling and related settings.
- A critical understanding of professional standards from a range of relevant disciplines to take an evidenced-based view on how to work competently with complex psychotherapeutic issues and meet recognised training requirements.
- The ability to work independently or with groups, to problem solve, generate and communicate research-based evidence that supports best practice in the counselling field.
- A reflective and critical awareness of the ethical and professional considerations in counselling research.
Assessment & Feedback
The course is assessed by coursework, practical skills assessments and a dissertation. Placements are assessed.
Please note the assessment periods in the academic calendar and make sure that you are available during those periods. Coursework submission deadlines can normally be found on MyBeckett or in individual Module Handbooks/other module guides.
Disabled students requiring adjustments to assessments/examinations should contact Disability Advice as soon as possible. We can only guarantee that adjustments can be put in place if students have contacted us by the following deadlines:
Semester 1 - 10th November 2023
Semester 2 - 8th March 2024
Contact us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
It is important for your progression and achievement that you submit all work for all assignments in a timely manner. It is also important that you keep copies of all work submitted until after you have graduated. You should also keep any receipts confirming the submission of assignments. In the event of your submitted work being lost you may be required to produce a copy of the work and submission receipt. If you are unable to do so, your work will not be marked.
It is important to note that submitting all assignments is a requirement of your course. Should you experience extenuating circumstances which prevent you from submitting on time please make yourself aware of the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances process. Without any form of extenuating circumstances, standard penalties apply for late submission of assessed work. Full details of the penalties for late submission of course work are available in section 3 of the Academic Regulations at https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-university/public-information/academic-regulations/
If you have been recommended 'flexibility around deadlines' as a reasonable adjustment in a Reasonable Adjustment Plan, your Course Administrator will be able to advise you of the process.
You will be required to submit your written work via Turnitin and information on Turnitin is available here: https://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/mybeckett/turnitin
Assessed work will normally be returned with appropriate feedback within four weeks of your submission. There is sometimes a perceived delay between submitting an assessment and receiving feedback, as work has to be marked and moderated, before feedback can be given, but this will normally be within the standard four weeks return period. Each module handbook will provide you with specific guidelines on how and when you will receive feedback on your assessments.
Formative assessment will be given in tutorials, where you can discuss a plan of your assignment with a module tutor. It will also be given regularly in Skills sessions and there will be a formative assessment in the Relational Framework module, as well as formative feedback in the Personal and Professional Development module. It will also be given regularly in research supervision sessions in the dissertation module.
Results from module assessments and decisions on progression to the next level of study (e.g., from level 4 to level 5 of an undergraduate degree) or awards (if you are in the final level) are available on the Results Online system: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/exams-assessments-and-awards/results-online/
Results will appear on Results Online within five working days from the date of the Progression and Award Board meeting (the meeting where your end of level outcome will be decided) or the Module Board meeting (the meeting where modular outcomes are decided).
If you are unsure about when you might receive your results or have queries relating to your results, you should contact your Course Administrator.
The University recognises that, from time to time, students may encounter issues which may prevent them from being able to submit or take assessment. Where this is the case, students may be able to submit their 'extenuating circumstances' for consideration. Please see the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances web page for further information.
Details about our Appeals process can be found on the appeals web page.
Academic integrity means intellectual honesty and is part of good academic practice. Further information can be found on our academic integrity web page.
Teaching & Learning
Learning and teaching activities consist of a mix of tutorials, group and individual activities, workshops and case study analysis, where students are given opportunities to relate the material covered to the workplace. The teaching and learning style is student-centred and an inclusive environment is created in which students learn by sharing their own and their peers experience through the development of critical reflection, dialogue and debate. The group agrees a code of conduct, which respects and values the individuals within the group, whilst taking responsibility for their own psychological safety. This is further enhanced through students developing the core conditions of empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard, as described by Carl Rogers.
As part of the course, students undertake a placement of 100 hours of supervised practice with adult clients (aged over 16). Students undertake external training supervision that meets BACP requirements. Students also undertake at least 20 hours of external personal therapy, which provides students with first-hand experience as a client, and they can then link this insight back to their theoretical grounding and research. Placements, external supervisors and personal therapists are taken from a University approved list. Students also attend internal supervision as part of the Therapeutic Process and Supervision module.
You will also be trained to deliver therapy competently using online (e.g. video conferencing) platforms, and over the telephone.
Whilst the majority of teaching sessions are delivered on campus, students will need to have access to a private space to attend occasional online training sessions, also requiring the use of a personal computer or equivalent device, and access to the internet.
There is an emphasis on the practical application of theory to a working environment and on the opportunity for students to think about, discuss, and where possible, relate theory to practice. Students gain an understanding of Relational framework theory and practice and learn how to apply their therapeutic counselling and psychotherapy skills with clients. Through supervised practice, students identify their strengths and areas for development, ensuring they become a capable and self-reflective practitioner.
Students are taught alongside the students on the Diploma HE Therapeutic Counselling Skills (level 5) course. Learning and teaching activities are sometimes differentiated from the level 5 students to support the development of level 7 academic skills and formative and summative assessments.
Attendance/Absence
Under the University's Academic Engagement Policy, students are expected to attend all scheduled sessions on the course. Also, the course has a minimum attendance requirement at the University of 95%, which equates to 28.5 days' attendance across the 30 study days of the academic year. A study day requires attendance on all modules and attendance is recorded separately for each module. This attendance ensures you will meet the minimum contact hours required by the BACP, in order that you can achieve a BACP-accredited qualification. It is a benchmark established to ensure that the curriculum is covered by all trainees in advance of qualification and therefore one assurance of your competencies upon completion of your training.
However, we understand that life happens and there may be times when you need to miss a session. For clarity we have set out our guidance on managing these unavoidable absences, offered in the spirit of our collaborative relationship with you as your training provider:
Please always contact the module leader and your course administrator to let them know if you're not going to be able to attend a timetabled session in advance of the session.
Please do not travel to campus if you don't feel well enough to be here.
If your circumstances are impacting on your regular attendance at University, please contact your academic advisor as soon as possible to discuss your options.
If your attendance falls below 95% on a module, at the end of the academic year, you can provide a written reflective piece for each of the missed sessions, e.g., by accessing materials on the MyBeckett module site (length proportional to 150 words for each module session) and these are due a minimum of two weeks before the Exam Board at which your results are to be presented.
If your attendance falls below 80% on a module you will be required to repeat the module with attendance the following year, which would incur the standard tuition fee for that module. However, if circumstances mean you anticipate falling below the 80% threshold, please let the course team know as soon as possible and we will support you in, for example, arranging the suspension of your studies until the following year, which may avoid the need for additional fees, depending on when the suspension begins in the academic year. You can also seek guidance from teams in Student Services such as Student Money, Student Wellbeing, Disability Advice and from the Students' Union Advice Service.
If we have concerns about your attendance, we will always seeks a conversation with you first, and will seek a collaborative solution with you.
If, after having that conversation, there continue to be issues with your attendance, it will be necessary for us to contact your placement provider and request a pause on your taking on new clients until you are consistently attending training on campus again.
Please also note that the Academic Engagement Policy applies throughout your course including the monitoring and action processes on academic engagement.
These specific attendance requirements only apply to the professional counselling modules.
All modules are 20 credits except the Dissertation which is 40 credits. Modules are delivered over two semesters, except where stated below.
Level 7 core modules - indicative delivery full-time
Year 1
Personal and Professional Development 1
Relational Framework
Therapeutic Skills
Understanding Social Research and Evaluation (semester 2- Distance Learning Module)
Year 2
Personal and Professional Development 2
Becoming a Therapist
Therapeutic Process and Supervision
Dissertation
Level 7 core modules - indicative delivery part-time
Year 1
Personal and Professional Development 1
Relational Framework
Therapeutic Skills
Year 2
Personal and Professional Development 2
Becoming a Therapist
Therapeutic Process and Supervision
Year 3
Understanding Social Research and Evaluation (semester 1 - Distance Learning Module)
Dissertation (semester 2)
A standard 20 credit module equates to 200 notional learning hours, comprising teaching, learning and assessment, placement activities and and guided independent study.
Overall Workload in hours | Level 7 |
Teaching and Learning | 486 |
Independent Study and Assessment | 1176 |
Placement and placement related activities | 138 |
Details of School academic staff can be found on the School of Health Website.
Attendance & Absence
The University expects you to attend and contribute fully to all mandatory sessions on your timetable as set out in your student contract. Engagement in your lectures, seminars and practicals is an important part of your learning - contributing both to the University community and the learning experience of your fellow students on the course. This includes engagement in scheduled virtual learning and activities and meetings in online environments related to your studies.
We monitor your engagement at the University as regular attendance and academic achievement are closely linked. Moreover, by monitoring your engagement and attendance we can identify students who may need our guidance or support at an early stage to help them progress in their studies. This is part of our commitment to ensuring an excellent education and experience and supporting your success at Leeds Beckett.
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you cannot attend a class, and in this instance you must contact your School office to let them know. This may then be recorded as an 'authorised absence'.
Please note that any attendance reports can be shared with you and your Course team. You might be asked to contact your School office so that appropriate academic or pastoral support can be offered, should your attendance record give cause for concern.
Our most important aim is to support your studies, but we are also required to report attendance to various external bodies such as the Student Loan Company and the Home Office. There are measures in place for students who seek to falsely register either their own or fellow students' attendance.
Our Academic Engagement Policy is available under 'Student Contract' on the Student Regulations web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific attendance requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
You must notify your Course Administrator if you are absent (for example for an interview, emergency unforeseen circumstances, or for compassionate leave). If you are going to apply for mitigation you will need to provide written evidence of the reason for your absence.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
If you are unable to study due to Covid-19 (coronavirus) symptoms, please see the guidance available on our Covid-19 web page.
If you are unable to study because of another illness for more than 14 consecutive days (including weekends), you must provide us with a Fit Note.
You can send a digital copy of your Fit Note to your Course Administrator, and then send the original by post.
If you are absent through illness on the day of an examination or assignment deadline and you intend to apply for mitigation, you must also provide us with details as possible. Your submission for mitigation may be made online and the circumstances surrounding it may be self-certified unless your period of absence is prolonged. Generally, all absences of 2 weeks or more will require the submission of verifiable documentary evidence.
For more information on 'fit to sit' and mitigation please visit our Mitigation web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
Any Leeds Beckett student who suspects they may have, or have been diagnosed as having a serious infectious disease such as coronavirus, Mumps, TB, measles, meningitis or chicken pox should not attend campus. For notifiable diseases, students should notify their Course Director or Course Administrator as soon as possible giving information regarding which groups of students (and/or colleagues and clients on placements) you have been in contact with and when. For some diseases, such as TB and meningitis, your doctor and our Student Wellbeing Team have a responsibility to notify the West Yorkshire Public Health Protection Team who may also wish to speak to you (or your family) to determine if others require screening or medication. You should follow advice given by the hospital or your GP about when it is safe to return to University. Further information is available on the Student Wellbeing web page.
For guidance on what to do if you have symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus), please visit our Covid-19 web page.
If you are thinking about changing course or withdrawing from your course, further information can be found on our Student web pages.
International Students
Please be aware that our University fully complies with United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) policy at all times. There are legal reporting requirements for all students in the UK on a Student visa, and full attendance is mandatory for all students who have a Student visa. Failure to meet UKVI attendance and engagement requirements could lead to your academic sponsorship being withdrawn and your visa being revoked.Students who hold a Student visa need to be aware of their responsibilities whilst in the UK, please see www.ukcisa.org.uk or our Student Immigration Advice and Compliance web page for full information.
For up-to-date information about visas, immigration issues and other matters relating to international students, please visit the International Students' web pages on the Students website or email the Student Immigration Advice and Compliance Team on siac@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.
You should have been enrolled on the International Student's Academic Introduction module in MyBeckett when you began your studies - if you missed this you can self-enrol and explore the content which introduces you to making the academic transition to a UK university. Please refer to Library page supporting international students
Professional Accreditation or Recognition Associated with the Course
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredits this MA course.
Successful completion of the course allows graduates to apply to become a registered member of the BACP.
The course meets the requirements of the BACP's stage 3 Core practitioner training, see details here: https://www.bacp.co.uk/careers/careers-in-counselling/training/.
Graduates of the course can register as members of the BACP and join the BACP register for counsellors and psychotherapists. Additionally, graduates of the course are able to work towards achieving accredited status with the BACP: https://www.bacp.co.uk/membership/registered-membership/
Attendance requirements
Under the University's attendance policy, students are expected to attend all scheduled sessions on the course. Also, the course has a minimum attendance requirement at the University of 95% to meet the BACP 400 contact hours requirement. Attendance is monitored and the Course Leader will act if absences are recorded. This may be, for example, in the form of support from Student Services. Students are advised about this in the Course Handbook and on how missed hours can be made up. Where it is not possible to make up missed hours to the required minimum on a module or attendance is below 80%, students may be required to repeat the module with attendance.
'In Year' Work Placement Information
Placement: practice with clients in a confidential setting in a placement from the University approved list.
100 hours of client contact under supervision with an approved supervisor.
Student's choice and University-approved.
The BACP's Core curriculum requires that students complete 100 hours of counselling clients in a placement by the end of the course. The Professional development portfolio is submitted and assessed as part of the Personal and Professional Development module.
Students must regularly see an external supervisor for their client work (BACP requirements: minimum of 1.5 hours per calendar month; ratio of 8 hours counselling to 1 hour supervision, with supervision every two weeks) and this activity must be logged in their portfolio along with their 20 hours of personal therapy.
Approved placements, counsellors, and supervisors are made available to students at the beginning of the course. Placements, external supervisors and personal therapists are normally taken from the University approved list.
Reporting absences for placements
The absence reporting web page is here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/absence-reporting/
Skills, Employability & Graduate Opportunities
The course aims to offer individuals a professional training in relational counselling and psychotherapy. Our students can join the BACP as student members when they commence their studies. On successful completion of the course, our graduates are able to change their student membership to 'Registered Member'. Additionally, they are able to continue working towards achieving accredited member status.
Counselling and psychotherapy are recognised as an appropriate psychological response to an array of intrapsychic and interpersonal problems, and psychotherapists and counsellors are employed in the NHS, education, social services and in other sectors. At the same time, the number of self-employed practitioners in the private sector continues to grow. In addition, many in the helping professions continue to draw on counselling/psychotherapy skills and theory to enhance their primary role.
Alongside this growth, challenges to the efficacy of therapy and practitioner competence have emerged, resulting in a drive toward greater professionalism, including the establishment of professional bodies, codes of ethics/practice, and the accreditation of training courses and practitioners. Regulations governing the training and registration of psychotherapists are becoming increasingly more stringent and there is a drive towards evidencing appropriate core and CPD training.
The course enables students to develop research skills which include enhancing their ability to select, devise, analyse and synthesise psychotherapy and counselling research. Students develop an advanced understanding of selected research methods and have opportunities for acquiring appropriate research skills through study and conducting a piece of independent research in their own sphere of professional practical experience or area of interest. Through completing their dissertation supported by a named supervisor, students gain further skills in critical thinking and evaluation, presentation and independent learning.
You will have opportunities to gain recognition during your time at Leeds Beckett University for the extra activities you do in addition to your studies, including volunteering, student societies, playing in our University sports teams and being a Course Representative.
By joining a society with Leeds Beckett Students' Union, you can make new friends, have fun, try something new and enhance your CV - societies provide a great opportunity to learn new skills and improve your existing ones. It can be difficult to get to know new people at university but don't worry, everyone is in the same boat! Our Leeds Beckett Students' Union believe that joining a student-led society is the best way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. There are so many societies out there - from course-based to hobby-based to religious to political and campaigning. Whether you're just starting out at Leeds Beckett or working on your last year of study, it is never too late to find the right society for you - or start one yourself!
Course-based societies are a great way to meet people on your course, expand your networks and celebrate your achievements together such as end of year Society Balls. If you have a great idea for a society, we can help you get it up and running. There are resources and support available for all societies - including funding to help make your society goals a reality. For more information on starting your own society, visit: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/societies/create.
The course aims to offer individuals a professional training in Relational counselling and psychotherapy. The course fosters skills and qualities directly linked to the workplace, the course ethos being one of problem solving within the area of work, with students developing a sense of responsibility in therapeutic relationships.
Counselling and psychotherapy are recognised as an appropriate psychological response to an array of intrapsychic and interpersonal problems, and psychotherapists and counsellors are employed in the NHS, education, social services and in other sectors. At the same time, the number of self-employed practitioners in the private sector continues to grow. In addition, many in the helping professions continue to draw on counselling/psychotherapy skills and theory to enhance their primary role. Graduates of the course may wish to pursue doctoral studies.
Learning Support
If you have a question or a problem relating to your course, your Course Administrator is there to help you. Course Administrators work closely with academic staff and can make referrals to teaching staff or to specialist professional services as appropriate. They can give you a confirmation of attendance letter, and a transcript. You may also like to contact your Course Rep or the Students' Union Advice team for additional support with course-related questions.
Your Academic Advisor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your course. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your Academic Advisor at the beginning of each year, usually in your course induction. Further details on the role of your Academic Advisor are available on the Academic Advisor web page.
If you need support, but you're not sure where to go, your Student Advice Team are here to help. The team are an essential part of your Student Support Network and are dedicated to ensuring you can access the advice and support you need, when you need it most.
Student Advice can also help in the practical elements of university. The team will produce your first campus card and assist you in replacing your campus card if needed throughout your time at Leeds Beckett. They can provide Confirmation of Enrolment and Bank Letters for our current students and full or partial transcripts for our graduates and fully enrolled students.
If you need help with more complex queries or concerns, our trained Student Life Advisers offer 1-1 appointments, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk about your circumstances and identify support that you can access both within and outside of the university.
To contact the team, or to arrange an appointment, visit The Student Advice webpage for full details.
The Student Voice & Insight team at LBSU works alongside the elected Academic Experience Officer to effectively represent students' academic interests.
We provide support, training and ongoing development to over 1,000 Course Representatives, Postgraduate Research Reps, Student Community Leaders and Global Majority Student Ambassadors who represent you whilst you study at Leeds Beckett; and facilitate the collection of student feedback on your academic experience.
Unsure who your Course Rep is? Maybe you're interested in becoming a Course Rep or have feedback about your academic experience? Get in touch at:
- Email: studentvoice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
- Telephone: 0113 812 8400
- Website: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/your-voice
You can find information and resources online through the Support and Opportunities tabs in MyBeckett. In the Support tab, you can find details of a range of services that provide academic and personal support. These include Student Advice, Library Services, the Students' Union, Student Money, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, Student Immigration Advice and Compliance and Accommodation. There is also an A-Z of Support Services, and access to online appointments/registration.
In the Opportunities tab, you can explore the options you have for jobs, work placements, volunteering, and a wide range of other opportunities. For example, you can find out here how to get help with your CV, prepare for an interview, get a part-time job or a voluntary role, take part in an international project, or join societies closer to home.
If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difference, we believe this should never be a barrier to studying at our University.
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can ensure everything is in place before your course starts.
What should I do next?
- We will ask you to provide evidence of your disability, usually from a health professional or educational psychologist. Don't worry if you haven't got any, we can support you with this.
- Usually, we will arrange an appointment with your Disability Adviser to discuss any adjustments you might need and support you in applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).
- We will work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are available so you can fully participate on your course.
Please watch this short video about how the Disability Advice Team can work with you.
Disabled students can also access the Disability Resource Areas in each library and the support provided by the Library Learning Support Officer. More information is available on the Library website.
What is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
DSA is government funding to help with the cost of any additional support you might need while studying, such as: one-to-one support, specialist equipment (including useful software) and travel. For more information visit our website.
Contact Us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
The Library
The Library offers 24/7 support for your studies. You can access thousands of resources via MyBeckett or the Library website which also provides full details of all our services.
Library Academic Support
The Library Academic Support Team can help you develop your academic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing and analysing data, and research skills such as how to find, use and evaluate information for your studies. The team liaises with your lecturers to provide the information resources you need for your subject and to arrange academic skills sessions to support you in your studies.
The team maintains a number of websites and modules to support your learning:
- In your Subject guide, you'll find a variety of information resources which have been selected as a good starting point for research in that area. These are available on the Skills and Subject Support web page or via My Beckett.
- On the Skills for Learning website, you'll find online resources covering topics such as essay writing, research and time management, English Language and academic English plus information to help you reference and avoid plagiarism, alongside details of workshops that are designed to help you succeed in your assessments. The Skills for Learning website can be found on the Library website or via My Beckett.
- LBU Study Smart is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to the key skills and services you'll need to study successfully at Leeds Beckett. There are also additional modules you can take as you move through your course to help you transition between study levels. The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
- The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
Library and Student IT Advice Service
The Library and Student IT Advice Service team can answer your queries on borrowing, finding information, passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA) ,Office 365, online meetings, saving your work, MyBeckett and more:
- online (including 24/7 chat) via the Contact Us web page
- by phone - 0113 812 1000 (24/7 IT support)
- face-to-face in either of our Libraries, check Library opening times for details of when staff are available
They also have a wide range of short tutorials available on the Library's YouTube channel.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi on the University campus is provided by eduroam, a secure wireless network, which also allows you Wi-Fi access if you visit other universities. To connect:
- Select eduroam from available Wi-Fi
- Your login details are:
Username followed by @leedsbeckett: e.g. c1234567@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Password: your normal university password
*Android Users: Select under Phase 2 Authentication - MS-CHAPv2
Help is available on the Library's Wi-Fi web page.
Microsoft Office 365
You are provided with free access to Office 365 and the latest version of Office can be downloaded from the IT tab in MyBeckett or from office.com. All students who are registered for a qualification at Leeds Beckett University are eligible and you can use the subscription for the duration of your course. For instructions and more information, please see the Office 365 support page.
OneDrive
OneDrive Leeds Beckett is your individual file storage with 1TB of storage space. With OneDrive you can access and share your files across your devices. This is accessible on University PCs and off-campus through Office 365 portal. See the Saving your Work pages on the Library website for more information.
Leeds Beckett RemoteApp
The Leeds Beckett RemoteApp gives you access to a range of specialist software for your course on your personal devices. See the RemoteApp page on the Library website for more information.
Media Equipment - free loans
You can borrow high-end Media Equipment for free. Browse, reserve and collect equipment ranging from GoPros to Remote Presenters from the ground floor of the Shelia Silver and Headingley Libraries. Further information is available on the Media Equipment web page.
University life can have its ups and downs, and occasionally you may find yourself in need of advice. That's where we come in. Here at the SU we have a free advice service that is here just for you, the students at Leeds Beckett University.
The Advice Service at LBSU is a confidential, non-judgmental service run by professional advisers.
The service is independent from the University, so if you are having any problems with your course you can talk confidentially with us - although we do work with the University to find the best solutions, we would only contact them with your permission. We can advise on a range of topics including all aspects of the University Regulations and Procedures, housing issues and finance issues. We can guide you through any processes or procedures.
We're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have while you are studying at Leeds Beckett.
Get more information at www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice.
Resources
MyBeckett, the portal and virtual learning environment provides:
- access to your modules and timetables;
- your reading lists and email account;
- your personal storage area on our University IT servers;
- information on where to look for academic or personal support (Support tab);
- information on opportunities such as jobs, careers, part-time work, placements and volunteering (Opportunities tab)
- access to Library and student IT advice
Further information and support for using MyBeckett can be found on the MyBeckett Support Pages.
The physical and online resources available for this course include classroom and lecture facilities with PC and smartboard facilities; social learning spaces with individual tutorial rooms; the online learning repository 'MyBeckett' which contains lectures, notices, assignment submission facilities; and a communications suite comprising individual interview rooms, integrated recording equipment for all rooms and a digital recording collection facility.
Student Voice
We are committed to working in partnership with you and the Students' Union to provide you with an inclusive, safe and engaging learning environment which is conducive to study for all our students and our staff. An important element of your time studying with us is your engagement in developing your learning. Your engagement and attendance on your course enables you to further your learning and supports your achievement, course completion and aspirations for the future. There is an expectation that students will attend, engage in their learning and submit on time for assessment. We provide support for you to maximise your time studying with us and to develop your learning, skills and abilities to support you in your chosen career path.
We seek active participation by all our students in the continuous enhancement of our courses and through our monitoring, annual review and enhancement processes. These are formal processes used by our University for assuring the academic standards and quality of your course and its continuous improvement. These processes utilise your feedback, External Examiners' reports, feedback from staff and others, data relating to student outcomes on the course and student surveys to reflect on areas of good practice and areas for further enhancement. We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey. We utilise the outcomes of these surveys to benchmark our courses nationally and to inform annual course enhancements.
Informal feedback is also welcome at any time either via your Academic Advisor or module tutor or via your Course Representative. Our partnership with you enables us together to make the most of your learning experience with us and to enhance the quality and reputation of your course. You can find out what actions have been taken in response to your feedback through your Course Representative, the Students' Union, your tutors or through the Library.
Course Representatives (Reps) at undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels are student volunteers who represent you in formal and informal meetings with the University, and follow up on actions that have occurred because of student feedback. You can become a Course Rep, volunteering to represent the views of your peers in order to improve students' academic experience.
In the first few weeks of your time at Leeds Beckett, your Course Director will facilitate an opportunity to appoint Course Reps on your course.
LBSU provides support, training and ongoing development for Course Reps and supports their engagement in enhancement activities throughout the academic year.
Being a Course Rep provides you with an opportunity to enhance your own learning and the development of relevant professional and employability skills alongside your studies. As a Course Rep you would play an important role in:
- Acting as a point of contact and advocate for students on your course and in supporting their active engagement.
- Gathering feedback from students on your course to inform enhancements to the quality of your course and the student experience.
- Facilitating good communication between students and staff on the course.
- Working with the Course Director, members of the course team and the Students' Union to enhance your course.
- Facilitating and engaging in meetings about your course; and
- Being an ambassador for your course.
Further information about being a Course Representative is available at:
We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and the Graduate Outcomes Survey.
We are committed to providing a high quality experience for all our students. We welcome comments and compliments from students, and find them valuable for on-going improvements to our provision. Comments and compliments about your course can be raised with your Course Representative or directly with your Course Director or Academic Advisor.
If you have a specific complaint about an act or omission of our University, you may be able to make a complaint under the Student Complaints Procedure. In the first instance, you should raise the matter as soon as possible with the member of staff most directly concerned, or with the person who can best resolve it. If this does not resolve the matter, or if the complaint is too serious to be addressed in this way, then you should make a formal complaint in writing. Information about how to make a complaint, including the student complaints procedure and a complaints form, is available on the Students web pages.
General Information
Postgraduate Diploma Integrative Counselling
Postgraduate Certificate Integrative Counselling
Leeds Beckett University
Level 7 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, with 180 credit points at level 7 of the Higher Education Credit Framework for England.
Part-time delivery is usually at half the intensity of the full-time equivalent course, although there may be flexibility to increase your pace of study to shorten the overall course duration. Some modules may be delivered in a different sequence from that provided in this handbook, but the modules offered are consistent.
Course fees and additional course costs are confirmed in your offer letter. Course fees are presented to you annually through the online enrolment process. Please visit our Course and Tuition Fees Payment web pages for further information. Ongoing queries relating to additional course costs may be discussed with your Course Administrator.
Alternatively, you can contact any of the following teams:
For Student Finance related fee queries: studentfunding@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Other fee related queries: fees@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Payments: incomes@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Policies, Standards & Regulations
Key University regulations and policies can be accessed on the following web pages:
- Academic Regulations (including assessment regulations) are available on our Academic Regulations web page
- The Student Contract is available on our Student Regulations web page
- The Student Charter is available on our Academic Regulations web page (Section 20)
Other Student regulations and University policies, including Safety, Health and Wellbeing policies, are available on our Student Regulations web page
You should also familiarise yourself with Support Report Respect where students and colleagues who are victims of any form of bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct, can access support, advice and guidance.
For advice on University regulations and policies, students should contact the Students' Union Advice Service.
The course follows the Academic Regulations with the following exemptions.
Fitness to Practise
The course is authorised to use the University Fitness to Practise Policy. Students are expected to act in a professional manner at all times in line with the Policy: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/-/media/files/policies/student/ups_fitness_to_practise_policy_procedure.pdf
All assessments to be passed
All components of assessments must be passed to pass the modules and all modules must be passed to pass the course. The placement requirements and minimum hours for placements must also be met to pass the course.
Attendance requirements
Under the University's attendance policy, students are expected to attend all scheduled sessions on the course. Also, the course has a minimum attendance requirement at the University of 95% to meet the BACP 400 contact hours requirement. Attendance is monitored and the Course Leader will act if absences are recorded. This may be, for example, in the form of support from Student Services. Students are advised about this in the Course Handbook and on how missed hours can be made up. Where it is not possible to make up missed hours to the required minimum on a module or attendance is below 80%, students may be required to repeat the module with attendance.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Exemption from academic credit or placement hours through any prior learning (RPL/RPEL/RPCL/credit transfer) is not allowed.
The External Examiner assures that you are assessed fairly in relation to other students on the same course and also that the standard of your own award is comparable to similar courses taken by students in other higher education institutions within the UK. The External Examiner(s) provide an annual report for your course. External Examiner reports are available on our External Examiner Reports web page, which is accessible via the Course Information link on the Students home page.
Dr Suzy Clarkson, Lecturer, Bangor University
Ms Susan Mckelvie, Senior Lecturer, University of Huddersfield
Appendices
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