Counselling Psychology as a Super-structural Course in Enhancing Academic and Emotional Competencies across Disciplines: A Case Study of the University of Ibadan

Abstract

Counselling psychology has increasingly demonstrated its critical role in fostering academic and emotional development among university students. This study explores the integration of counselling psychology as a Super-structural course at the University of Ibadan, examining its impact on students’ academic performance and emotional competencies across various faculties. Employing a convergent mixed-methods approach, 300 undergraduates were assessed through quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Findings revealed that students who engaged with counselling interventions exhibited significantly higher Grade Point Averages (GPAs), enhanced emotional resilience, improved stress management skills, and a reduction in mental health stigma compared to their counterparts. These results highlight the transformative potential of counselling psychology in bridging cognitive, emotional, and social domains of student development. The study recommends embedding counselling psychology as a compulsory interdisciplinary course within university curricula to promote holistic education, better preparing students for academic success and life beyond the university