Course

Graduate Certificate in Counselling

Approved Abbreviation: GradCertCouns

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Western Sydney University Course Code: 1648.2

Course enquires should be directed to the Course Advisor.

Counselling is a cross-disciplinary pathway into a career in helping human beings in distress. In counselling, clients learn self-knowledge and become able to change through a dedicated helping relationship, in which high levels of skill, sensitivity, self knowledge and ethical conduct are required of the helper. In contrast to some of the longer-established helping professions, counselling, as taught in this program, places greater emphasis on the creation of a therapeutic environment for the client than on specific techniques or the application of particular theoretical models. Sequenced training in basic skills and concomitant self-awareness forms a major part of the first year of the program. Throughout, relevant theory is learned in direct relation to practice. This program is aimed specifically at graduates in psychology, social work or welfare work who are currently employed in counselling, and who wish to undertake a one year part-time program to broaden and deepen their existing skills and knowledge base. Students who wish to meet Professional Training Standards are advised to enrol in the Graduate Diploma in Counselling.

Study Mode
One year part-time.

Admission

Applications from Australian and New Zealand citizens and holders of permanent resident visas must be made via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

UAC

International applicants must apply directly to Western Sydney University via the International Office.

International Office

Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof can be found on the Universities Admissions Centre website (UAC).

UAC

Overseas qualifications must be deemed by the Australian Education International - National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) to be equivalent to Australian qualifications in order to be considered by UAC and Western Sydney University.

Students must have:

• Undergraduate degree in Psychology, Social Work or Social Welfare, AND

• Applicants must submit in writing a 200-250 word statement of intent that explains why the person is seeking entry to the course, AND

• Attend and satisfactorily perform at a small group entry interview process.

Course Structure

Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 40 credit points including the units listed in the recommended sequence below.

Recommended sequence

Part-time

Year 1

First session

101506

Counselling 1

Second session

101507

Counselling 2