HNCPearson BTEC Higher National Certificate
Counselling and Applied Psychology
You'll study counselling theory, psychological principles and therapeutic practice. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate: Level 4, 120 credits. It is also the first year of the HND.
Full title: Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Counselling and Applied Psychology
- Level
- Level 4Higher National Certificate
- Size
- 120credits
- Units
- 8 mandatoryno optional units listed
- For
- School leavers and adults
01What you'll study
Three areas of study.
-
Counselling theory
-
Psychological principles
-
Therapeutic practice
Where you learn
In Lisbon, or wherever you are.
The same Pearson qualification, whichever way you study.
02The units
What's on the course.
Mandatory units.
- Mandatory
- 8
- PSA units
- 1
- Unit 1 Personal and Professional Development Through Inclusive Practice 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 2 Developing Empathic Communication for Effective Therapeutic Relationships 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 3 Preparing for ResearchPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 4 Ethical Frameworks in Counselling 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 5 Self-awareness and Reflective Practice in Counselling 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 6 Theoretical Perspectives in Counselling 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 7 Individual Differences 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 8 Digital Approaches in Caring Professions 15 Credits Mandatory
PSA Pearson Set Assignment: a unit assessed through an assignment that Pearson sets.
03How you're assessed
Assessed through assignments.
Assignment-based, with a Pearson-set assignment unit.
Assessment at a glance
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
Skills you build
- Therapeutic communication, active listening, and case management
- Application of psychological theories to real-world social issues
- Ethical practice, confidentiality, and professional boundaries
- Mental health assessment and community outreach strategies
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
The HNC is the first year of the HND (Level 5).
- L3 Applied Science Level 3
- HNC Counselling and Applied Psychology This course
- HND Counselling and Applied Psychology HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
- L3 Health and Social Care Level 3
- HNC Counselling and Applied Psychology This course
- HND Counselling and Applied Psychology HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
What is the difference between an HNC and an HND?
An HNC is a Level 4 qualification worth 120 credits. An HND is a Level 5 qualification worth 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
How is it assessed?
Through assignments (coursework). Higher Nationals include a Pearson-set assignment unit at each level.
Can an HND lead to a degree?
HND graduates can apply to top up to a bachelor's degree, usually entering the final year, at universities that accept HNDs. Entry is subject to each university's own requirements.
What does it cost?
Fees are set by level, with and without boarding. The HNC (Level 4) figures are on the fees page. See the fees.
How do I apply?
Send us an enquiry with the subject and level you are interested in. We'll get back to you to talk through your options and the next steps.
06Start here
Where will you start?
Tell us about yourself, what you'd like to study and whether you'd rather join us in Lisbon or online. We'll suggest a starting level and talk you through your options.