
Level 6 BSc (Hons) Integrative Counselling (Top-up)
Course Overview
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The Course in Detail
This course is subject to validation by the University of Portsmouth. Applications for September 2026 will open soon. If you would like to be notified when the application portal opens, then please register your interest using the form at the bottom of the page.
Building on the Level 5 foundations of ethical, coherent, and relationally attuned integration, the Level 6 Top-Up will deepen your capacity to work flexibly and intentionally with humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, and relational concepts. You will be guided to enhance both your theoretical reasoning and practical ability to formulate client work integratively, select and apply appropriate interventions, and respond skilfully to clients presenting with greater complexity, risk, and multifaceted psychosocial need.
We understand that all students learn in different ways, and that’s why the course has been designed with a selection of theory, skills and personal development, taught through both individual and group projects with an emphasis on experiential and student-centred learning. You will be a part of a small group of students, creating an intimate learning environment where you can truly thrive.
In addition, you will have access to University of Portsmouth’s impressive suite of resources, as well opportunities to connect with the university’s community.
The course also involves blended learning, meaning students have the opportunity to access lectures and activities at a time that works for them. Alongside the abundance of resources available from both Southampton College and University of Portsmouth, the course also includes a selection of workshops and guest speakers throughout the year.
The Level 6 Top will develop and deepen your knowledge from the DipHE course and give you the opportunity to engage in a piece of substantial research into an area of personal interest.
You will study 4 modules during the year:
- Advanced Integrative Therapy
- Research
- Personal and Professional Practice
- Grief and Trauma
Timetabled teaching takes place 1 day a week. You may occasionally have to attend additional sessions and workshops at the college or university in the evenings and at weekends. Details will be provided during induction to the course.
You will be required to take part in personal therapy throughout the course, as well as register for British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) membership; both come at an additional cost, with therapy costing anywhere between £30-£70 per hour and BACP membership at £82 per year. Both will enormously benefit and enrich your learning experience, giving you first-hand experience of the world of CBT.
Awarding Body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Portsmouth.
Course Fees
The course fees are set by the University of Portsmouth and may be subject to change – please see their website for the latest fees and details. Instalment plans and loans may be available to assist with this.
Policies
For our HE Fees, Admissions and Student Protection Policies, please visit our Policies page.
Important Notice
A place on your chosen course is not confirmed until enrolment is complete, and any relevant fees are paid. Adult course times, dates, durations and fees may be subject to change, and courses may be cancelled if minimum numbers are not met.
Entry Requirements & Progression
What You'll Need
You must have a Level 5 Counselling qualification plus evidence of at least 100 counselling placement hours plus GCSE English at grade 4/C or above, or equivalent. You will also be required to pass an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting the course.
Whilst you will be based at Southampton College, you will also be a University of Portsmouth student and will therefore be able to access their facilities and support.
As your course will be taking place at a Further Education College where young people under the age of 18 are present, we require all applicants to declare prior criminal convictions to ensure the safeguarding of all our students. Any convictions declared will be reviewed before we make an offer of a place.
This Could Lead to
This Bachelor’s degree will give you the knowledge needed to apply for roles in health centres or therapy clinics, within the NHS, private hospitals, prisons and the community.
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Availability & Enrolment
*Please Note: Start dates given for our HE courses are indicative only. Courses will be begin in the week indicated below but the specific days of the week that a course will be delivered are dependent on resource and staff availability and therefore cannot be guaranteed until final timetables are completed.
Availability
If the courses listed above are not run at a suitable date or location please register your interest for future availability
College Life & Student Support Services
College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.
Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.