Frequently asked questions
What qualifications are needed to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Counselling?
Traditional academic qualifications are not a necessary requirement to enter the Graduate Certificate in Counselling. The programme is open to applicants that show appropriate commitment and motivation to participate in a programme that combines experiential learning and academic study.
How do I apply and will I need to attend an interview?
Applications are made online. Once your application is received by Admissions, a criteria questionnaire will be sent to you by email which should be completed and returned within 5 working days of receipt. Occasionally we do invite applicants to attend an interview.
How soon will I know if I will be offered a place?
We endeavour to turn applications round fairly promptly, so we would hope that your application would be screened for eligibility within a few weeks of receipt and that you would then, if deemed eligible, be sent the criteria questionnaire to complete and return.
If you are offered a place on our programme, please email your acceptance as requested and ensure a non-returnable advance deposit payment of £200.00 is made, as we can only hold your place for a limited time.
Payment can be made online, via the link below http://www.keele.ac.uk/finance/income/paymentmethods/onlinepayments/ or by cheque, made payable to Keele University, post to Bev Davies, Counselling Administrator, School of Psychology, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, within two weeks of receiving the offer by e-mail.
If you accept the offer and make the advance payment in time, then joining information will be sent to you before the course begins.
What qualification will I be awarded, upon successful completion of the programme?
Students who have successfully completed the programme will be awarded the Graduate Certificate in Counselling.
What is the progression route, following completion of the Graduate Certificate in Counselling?
In addition to being a stand-alone programme, successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in Counselling, together with tutor recommendation, and the achievement of a minimum mark of 60% on at least one written assignment, will help you meet the criteria for entry onto the MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy.
What are the teaching hours of the course and approximately how much private study time per week should be allowed for each year?
If the programme continues to be taught in the same way as usual, which cannot be guaranteed, teaching is on a Tuesday afternoon 12.30pm to 5pm and we recommend a minimum of a further half day private study per week.
Applicants should note that they will need to find time, outside of the course hours, in which to carry out practice skills, at Keele, with peers from the course and in which to make recordings of those practice sessions. It is envisaged that, perhaps, one hour per week would be devoted to this.
Students are also required to attend a compulsory non-residential weekend conference, usually held in April or May.
Is there a placement element within the course?
There is no placement element in the Graduate Certificate in Counselling.
Are there any additional costs apart from the fees?
- Students on the Graduate Certificate in Counselling have to attend a minimum of 8 hours of personal therapy and payment for this is the responsibility of the students. As a guide, costs for this on average are £35-£45 per hour.
- Parking is also an additional cost for students who wish to use their cars on campus. Details of student parking permits are sent out with the pre-enrolment information.
- Students should also be aware that possible additional costs may be incurred when attending the compulsory non-residential Conference weekend. Refreshments and lunches are provided for the students free of charge during the weekend but there will be an additional cost should students wish to attend the Saturday evening Conference dinner and also if wishing to book local accommodation.
Is there any funding available to help with the fees?
Applicants can contact Student Support - Money Advice and Guidance, to enquire about any funding.