HNC Counselling at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

HNC Counselling suits those who wish to progress towards qualifying as a counsellor and those in community work, social care, education, criminal justice, health or voluntary work who use helping and supporting skills. The course integrates theory, skills practice, reflection and self-development, and was jointly developed by SQA and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). It does not qualify graduates to practise counselling.

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Core modules cover cognitive and behavioural counselling theory, humanistic counselling theory, loss, grief and bereavement, psychodynamic counselling theory, relationship-centred counselling, understanding addictive behaviours and a taster work placement. Study combines face-to-face classes with scheduled online sessions across the UHI partnership.

Career pathways

Agencies where counselling skills are required, such as the voluntary sector, community work, social care, education, criminal justice and health services; progression to HND Counselling.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A counselling award at SCQF level 6 or above incorporating assessed skills practice, or the COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills (SCQF level 8). Counselling training and other qualifications incorporating assessed skills practice may be considered individually. The Work placement module, required for progression to HND, requires PVG Scheme membership (Category 2 PVG course). Not open to international applicants requiring a Student Route visa.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,285 a year (2026/27). Scotland-domiciled students, full-time per year (Higher National award) Source

Intake: September

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time

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