Bachelor of Counselling

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes.

Course Learning Outcomes:

1. Knowledge of theory and practice relevant to professional counselling and clinical populations for a range of mental health and lifestyle issues
2. Identify, select and creatively apply relevant counselling practices and techniques to diverse clinical populations to foster wellness and recovery
3. Comply with professional codes of ethics and regulations while keeping abreast of changes in the legislation and practice applicable to counselling
4. Participate and deliver counselling services
5. Demonstrate reflective practice and autonomy for lifelong personal and professional learning
6. Apply academic literacy skills, communication, and technical presentation skills relevant to professional counselling in a range of settings including digital mode
7. Apply cultural and indigenous awareness and sensitivity in dealings with clients and stakeholders in a range of settings.

Demand for mental health professionals is at an all-time high. If you enjoy working with people and creating positive change, counselling offers both a meaningful career and excellent employment prospects.

The Bachelor of Counselling provides a foundation in psychology, assessment and interventions, counselling theory and practice and building relationships.

Students will build skills in counselling practice with extensive placement experiences.

The University is home to an active community of researchers and thought leaders in social work and policy, psychology and community welfare.

Recommended study pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include:

• Counselling Theory and Practice
• Ethical Issues in Practice
• Psychology Foundations: Self and Situation
• Understanding Wellbeing and Mental Health.

Plus a choice of electives. As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you.

Award requirements

To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Counselling, students must complete the equivalent of 24 units (288 credit points) comprising:

• 22 core units (264 credit points); and
• 2 elective units (24 credit points).

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $30,000

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Southern Cross University believes in the power of change. Their graduates stride the global stage at the frontline of healthcare, transforming education in the classroom, and tackling the world’s wicked problems with scientific and engineering solutions. Students enjoy award winning support, teaching quality, and online delivery. Ranked among the best for many years, they will help you make the change you seek to transform your tomorrow.

Learn more about SCU.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

30

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

35

ATAR 65 or equivalent.

Minimum English Language Requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English.

Category Score Overall 6.0

Listening minimum 5.5

Reading minimum 5.5

Speaking minimum 5.5

Writing minimum 5.5

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit for knowledge and skills you have already acquired. Credit gained through prior learning, experiences and qualification can reduce the duration and cost of your course.

This course includes 200 hours of compulsory professional placement experiences. 

Students will be required to attend compulsory residential workshops at our Lismore or Gold Coast campus throughout the duration of the course.