BA Psychosocial Studies with Principles of Psychodynamic Counselling

The BA Psychosocial Studies with Principles of Psychodynamic Counselling at Birkbeck University, London, mixes the study of society and mind with the theory and practice of psychodynamic counselling. It looks at how identity, unconscious processes, and social forces shape each person. The degree helps build emotional awareness, self-reflection, and deep social insight. It suits those drawn to therapy, counselling, social care or work that deals with people’s inner lives and social context.  The course runs full-time or part-time. Full-time takes three years. Part-time spans four years. Students study modules exploring themes like identity, power, society, social theory, psychoanalysis, group dynamics, and helping practice. 

The course values combining theory and real social experience. It helps link personal insight with social understanding. Students may join discussions about social issues, inequality, power, identity, public life and social change. Students are taught using lectures, seminars, small-group work, and experiential or practical sessions. Students also engage in value discussion, self-reflection, and sharing of real-life experiences. Assessment combines essays, written work, group work, reflective writing, research, and students are required to do a dissertation or major project in advanced years.