Course Overview

About This Course

The Graduate Diploma of Counselling is designed to provide you with foundational and comprehensive training in counselling theory and skills, emphasising professional integrity and a Christian perspective. This program prepares you to work effectively with individuals, groups, and communities in various settings, enhancing their quality of life. The course includes eight core subjects, offering flexibility to continue your studies at the Master's level. With a focus on vocational readiness, this diploma equips you for diverse roles in professional, educational, not-for-profit, and community service environments. This course introduces students to a broad range of counselling technical and theoretical concepts. Graduates will be equipped with writing and research skills to prepare them for further study and will be able to demonstrate an ability to apply a body of knowledge related to applied social sciences in a range of contexts. Graduates will also have developed skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication at a postgraduate level.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

30 Cowper Street, NSW - Alphacrucis College Limited

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Completion of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in any discipline by an authorised institution.
International Students – Language Requirements: IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 6.5 (with no score below 6.0 in any of the four skills areas).
Proof of Identity: Applicants must submit a proof of identity document for every application. Accepted forms of identification: Birth Certificate, Passport (current and valid).
A supporting document must be submitted in addition to the identity document if an applicant's name is different on their primary document (Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate).

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Intern Counsellor (entry level): Work in areas such as schools, and community work.
Community or Case Worker: Support individuals and groups within community settings.
Family Support Officer: Assist families in navigating challenges and accessing resources.
Support Officer: Provide counselling informed care to people accessing support from health care, aged care, youth and disability services.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

ASQA

Professional Body

Australian Counselling Association (ACA) / PACFA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

ACA / PACFA

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units8 units

SSC400

Foundations in Social Research, Writing, and Methods

Equips students with the skills to critically analyse and synthesise academic literature, construct evidence-based arguments, and master academic writing and research conventions. Students explore a range of research methods and ethical considerations to design and conduct studies.

ACA401

Faith and Purpose

Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students explore the Christian story from Scripture and examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing.

SSC410

Psychology of Emotion and Wellbeing

Introduces the concepts of emotional development and the social and cultural factors that influence emotions. Students learn to apply theoretical approaches to understand emotions and interact empathetically with clients.

SSC413

Interpersonal Communication Skills

Equips students with foundational interpersonal communication skills. Through practical exercises, students develop counselling micro-skills including conflict management responses, within a culturally sensitive framework. Designed to meet PACFA and ACA training requirements.

SSC521

Foundations of Professional Practice

Prepares students to work effectively with clients by learning advanced counselling micro-skills and techniques. Emphasises applying micro-skills and evidence-based methods in counselling contexts, including how to respond to complex needs such as anxiety and stress.

SSC516

Mental Health

Students learn to recognise symptoms of mental health conditions, deliver appropriate assistance, and understand the role of the community in supporting mental wellbeing. Develops skills in treating individuals with empathy, respect, and compassion.

SSC510

Human Lifespan Development

Offers a comprehensive examination of the developmental stages from conception to death, integrating multicultural and critical perspectives. Students explore major developmental milestones and develop strategies to assist others in navigating developmental life transitions.

SSC517

Applied Counselling Theories

Provides a comprehensive overview of historical and modern counselling methodologies, from Freudian psychoanalysis to contemporary approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. Students learn to critically evaluate different models and apply them across diverse therapeutic contexts.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Graduate Diploma of Counselling accredited by a professional body?

Yes, the Graduate Diploma of Counselling is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Christian Counsellors Association Australia (CCAA). Please note that full accreditation requires the completion of the Master of Counselling.

Can I study the Graduate Diploma of Counselling online?

Yes, the course is available in multiple study modes including Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face, and Live Intensive. Some subjects are also available on campus in Sydney — see the timetable to confirm location and mode.

What are the entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma of Counselling?

Applicants must have completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in any discipline from an authorised institution. International students must also meet the IELTS (or equivalent) requirement of a score of 6.5, with no score below 6.0 in any of the four skills areas.

Does this course lead to further study?

Yes, the Graduate Diploma of Counselling offers flexibility to continue your studies at the Master's level. The course is designed as a pathway into the Master of Counselling program, and also allows students who may need to exit the Masters program earlier than intended to receive a recognised qualification.

How much does the Graduate Diploma of Counselling cost?

The course costs $3,150 per subject. The course consists of 8 subjects, and FEE-HELP may be available for eligible domestic students.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $60,000 to $75,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $75,000 to $90,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $90,000 to $105,000 per year

Career Paths

Mental Health CounsellorYouth Counsellor / School CounsellorFamily and Relationship CounsellorDrug and Alcohol Counsellor (AOD Counsellor)Trauma Counsellor

Key Skills

Active listening and reflective communicationBuilding therapeutic rapport and trust with clientsApplying counselling theories and frameworks (CBT, person-centred, psychodynamic, narrative)Crisis intervention and risk assessmentTrauma-informed and culturally safe practice

Full Course Overview

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