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.

There is strong demand for mental health professionals. 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.

This course has travel expectations - please read the information below on placements carefully.

Pathway option: Diploma of Health (Counselling Specialisation).

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 $27,942

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.

Explore SCU courses.

QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

30

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

35

ATAR 65 or equivalent.

All applicants must also demonstrate a suitable degree of life experience, including self-awareness, a capacity to relate to others and an understanding of ethical behaviour which are assessed through:

• two confidential references addressing the applicant’s suitability for the course; and
• the applicant’s responses to the SCU Counselling Readiness Questionnaire.

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 as ‘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 or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.

This course includes Working Integrated Learning (WIL) of 200 hours. WIL is a vital part of your professional experience and comes with specific expectations and responsibilities. Please read the following carefully before applying for the course:

Placement Locations: While we consider your current residential address when allocating placements, local placements are not guaranteed. It is essential to keep your address up to date in MyEnrolment, as inaccurate information may result in a placement that requires extended travel.

Travel and Costs: You should be prepared to travel to your allocated placement, which may be outside your immediate local area. You will require access to reliable transport to complete shifts that may occur during mornings, afternoons, nights, and weekends. You are responsible for organising and covering any associated costs, including travel, accommodation, and related expenses.

Fit-to-Practice Requirements: Before attending any placement, you must meet mandatory compliance requirements, which may include, but are not limited to, immunisations (as per the Australian National Immunisation Program), mask-fit testing, First Aid and CPR certification and National Police Certificate checks. 

 More detailed information on WIL is available on the Faculty WIL page.

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