BTEC Counselling & Applied Psychology
Expert-level counselling theory, psychological principles, and therapeutic practice. A two-year Higher National Diploma (HND) providing 240 credits, equivalent to the first two years of a degree.
Ages 18+
Higher Education
11 Mandatory Units
Core & Specialist
240 Credits
Two-Year Programme
HND
Level 5 Diploma
Expert Counselling Practice
Prime School's HND in Business builds on Level 3 foundations to develop strategic thinking, operational excellence, and leadership capabilities. Learners engage with real business challenges and prepare for senior roles or progression to HND and degree study.
Strategic Leadership
Develop advanced leadership skills, organisational change management, and strategic decision-making frameworks.
Financial Management
Master financial analysis, budgeting, investment appraisal, and corporate finance principles for business growth.
Marketing Strategy
Design integrated marketing strategies, digital campaigns, and brand positioning for competitive advantage.
Operations Management
Optimise business processes, supply chains, and quality systems for operational excellence.
Specification
The HND (240 credits) combines mandatory core units with specialist optional units. Your final option set is confirmed with your academic team based on career goals and progression plans.
| Unit | Title | Credits | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Psychology | 15 | Mandatory |
| 2 | Introduction to Counselling | 15 | Mandatory |
| 3 | Human Development | 15 | Mandatory |
| 4 | Mental Health & Wellbeing | 15 | Mandatory |
| 5 | Counselling Skills & Practice | 15 | Mandatory |
| 6 | Research Project in Counselling & Psychology PSA | 15 | Mandatory |
| 7 | Advanced Research Methods PSA | 15 | Mandatory |
| 8 | Advanced Counselling Theory | 15 | Mandatory |
| 9 | Abnormal Psychology | 15 | Mandatory |
| 10 | Ethics & Professional Practice | 15 | Mandatory |
| 11 | Supervised Practice | 15 | Mandatory |
| 12 | Cognitive Behavioural Therapy | 15 | Optional |
| 13 | Group Counselling | 15 | Optional |
| 14 | Family Therapy | 15 | Optional |
| 15 | Trauma & Crisis Intervention | 15 | Optional |
How You'll Excel at HND Level
Professional-level assignments, strategic projects, and industry mentorship — designed to build confident, career-ready graduates.
Assessment at a Glance
- Professional reports, strategic plans, financial analyses, and business proposals.
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
- Real-world business scenarios and case study analysis.
Mentoring & Progression
- Industry mentorship and professional development workshops.
- Pathway planning for final-year degree progression and top-up degrees.
- Career coaching, networking opportunities, and internship support.
Progression & Recognition
HND graduates progress to senior professional roles or direct entry to final-year degree programmes.
Professional Skills
- Strategic planning, financial management, and leadership capabilities
- Business analysis, project management, and operational excellence
- Marketing strategy, brand management, and digital transformation
- Legal compliance, risk management, and ethical business practice
University & Career
- Direct entry to final-year degree programmes or top-up degrees
- UK, EU, and international universities with credit recognition
- Senior business roles, management positions, and consultancy careers
- Entrepreneurship, business development, and strategic leadership roles
BTEC PATHWAY
Complete your therapeutic training with HND expertise—advance to psychology or counselling degrees, or begin professional practice with advanced skills in assessment and intervention.
Applied Sciences (Level 3) --> Counselling & Applied Psychology (Level 4) --> Counselling & Applied Psychology (Level 5)
Ready to Progress to Degree Study?
Speak with admissions to map your pathway from HND to HND and degree progression.