University of New South Wales
Graduate Certificate in Counselling Online
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 8 months
- Course Type: Graduate Certificate
Understand human behaviour, master communication techniques and apply ethical frameworks to real-world situations.
Course overview
This program is designed for professionals who want to understand human behaviour, master communication techniques and apply ethical frameworks to real-world situations – without the commitment of a full master's degree initially. Delivered 100% online, it allows you to balance study with your work and life commitments.
Unlike broader degree programs, the UNSW Online Graduate Certificate in Counselling is streamlined to deliver high-impact learning in a short timeframe. You will complete four core courses over a period as short as eight months.
This program is 100% online with no mandatory on-campus workshops or clinical placements. This distinct feature makes it an ideal choice for professionals who need to maintain their current employment while building new capabilities. You can progress at your own pace, studying in seven-week blocks that allow you to focus deeply on one course at a time.
Key facts
January, 2027
March, 2027
May, 2027
July, 2027
August, 2027
October, 2027
What you will study
Core courses
To earn the Master of Counselling, you must complete each of the following core courses:
- Foundational Counselling Skills
- Ethics in Counselling Practice
- Mental Health, Trauma and Resilience
- Counselling in a Diverse World
Entry requirements
General admission requirements
To be eligible for our Graduate Certificate in Counselling, you must have either:
- Completed a bachelor's degree or higher-level qualification in a related discipline*, OR
- Completed a bachelor's degree or higher-level qualification in any discipline plus 2 years relevant work experience**,
- Applicants who have not completed a bachelor's degree or higher-level qualification are required to have a minimum of 6 years relevant work experience in Counselling, case management or related positions**.
* Related disciplines may include psychology, social work, human services, education, youth work, community services, health sciences, nursing, mental health, behavioural science, social science and other related fields.
** Applicants should demonstrate relevant experience reflecting professional readiness, which may include supportive work, effective communication, facilitation or mentoring.
English language
You may need to provide evidence of English proficiency to study at UNSW. This ensures you can succeed in webinars, coursework and assessments.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
Completing this program qualifies you for roles that use counselling skills across the Australian healthcare landscape. Examples include:
- Case worker or support worker
- Youth worker
- Career counsellor or academic advisor
- Human resources professional
- Disability support coordinator
- Mental health intake worker
To become a fully registered counsellor with bodies like the ACA, you will generally need to continue into the Graduate Diploma in Counselling or Master of Counselling programs to complete the required placement hours.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative fee per course in 2026: $4,000 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Indicative total program fee in 2026: $16,000 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Student fees may vary in accordance with:
- The number of courses studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of courses.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
Who You Will Learn From
Dr Jane Mowll
Program Director, Master of Counselling
This program represents the heart of what it means to step into the counselling profession. Becoming a counsellor is not only a professional pathway – it is a commitment to understanding human vulnerability and the kinds of support people need when navigating mental health challenges, traumatic stress and grief.
The therapeutic relationship lies at the centre of this work. Helping you develop the capacity to meet others with authenticity and care is integral to my teaching philosophy. The program reflects my commitment to graduate counsellors who are culturally responsive and centre the dignity and value of each client.