Intakes
Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Oct
Units
8 units, 7 weeks each
Duration
16 months part-time
Why study the online Graduate Diploma in Counselling at UC?
Skills relevant to industry
Extend and enhance practical skills that are identified by industry experts as key to meeting the complex needs of individuals and communities.
Dedicated student support
Be supported by a learning community of students and academics.
Expert Placement Support
Have the opportunity to undertake a placement at an approved counselling agency.
Course overview
UC’s Graduate Diploma in Counselling further develops your counselling skills with practical, in-person experience, as well as support and feedback from academics. The course will extend and expand your counselling skills and deepen your knowledge and theoretical understanding of trauma, loss and grief, and their impact on people's lives.
What you will learn
Build on the foundations of counselling
Acquire a critical understanding of human diversity and the major models of counselling that will strengthen your capability to work in a range of social and cultural contexts.
Respectful approach to counselling
Develop the knowledge on how to work with people from diverse cultural backgrounds and identities.
Dedicated support
A Student Success Adviser is allocated to support you throughout your study journey, right from enrolment through to graduation.
ACA accredited
The course is recognised as a professional qualification in counselling and accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), in line with their Professional Training Standards.
Your course pathway
The Graduate Diploma in Counselling comprises 8 units and upon successful completion, is an excellent pathway to the master’s degree should you choose to undertake an additional four units.
Graduate Diploma in Counselling
8 units | 16 months*
*Maximum 5 years from date of enrolment to date of course completion. The duration is dependent on individual study path and placement requirements. Please speak to a Student Adviser for more information.
Taught by the best in the industry
“I believe counselling is both a skill and a responsibility. In our programs, students are supported to think critically, practise ethically, and develop the confidence to sit with complexity. We are committed to rigorous training, inclusive practice, and preparing graduates who can work competently across diverse communities.”
Dr Rana Tayara
Program Lead, Discipline of Counselling
Taught by the best in the industry
“Training as a counsellor at the University of Canberra fosters profound personal growth as well as preparation to work in a diverse and meaningful profession. As a student, you gain versatile knowledge and skills applicable across many sectors. With Australia’s growing mental health demand, your future career offers stable, impactful work in private practice, community health, or specialist counselling roles.”
Dr. Susan Sisko
Program Director for Postgraduate Counselling
Ready to learn more?
Download your course brochure for more detailed information including:
- What you’ll study
- Recognition of prior learning
- Entry requirements
- Fees and FEE-HELP
Ready to apply?
Start your application to study with UC Online.
