Edith Cowan University
Graduate Certificate of Counselling
- Delivery: Online
- Commitment: 15 - 20 hours/week
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 6 months
Enhance your skills and meet the evolving needs of individuals and communities with ECU’s online Graduate Certificate in Counselling.
Course overview
Examine the techniques of counsellors in various modalities and gain practical knowledge of how to apply person-centred approaches to counselling. You will also begin to develop reflective practices to continue your development as you walk alongside individuals and communities. The online Graduate Certificate of Counselling is an excellent pathway to the ECU's online Master of Counselling.
Key facts
November, 2026
What you will study
The course has three units of study.
- Foundations of Counselling Practice
- Theories and Techniques in Counselling
- The Role of the Counsellor
Entry requirements
Course admission requirements
- Bachelor's degree from a country specified in the Admissions Policy (with preference given to degrees relating to 'helping professions').
- Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.
- English Language Requirements: IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0).
Outcomes
Career outcomes
- Social Work
- Career Coaching
- Psychology
- Other Allied Health
- Human Resources
- Youth Work
- Human Welfare Roles
- Local Government support/community development roles
- Case work
- Disability support work
- Cognate undergraduate social science or behavioural science
Learning outcomes
Effective counselling techniques
- Gain a deepened understanding of counselling approaches across psychodynamic, behavioural, cognitive-behavioural and humanistic theories. Apply your practical skills and techniques to make assessments, plan treatments and implement evidence-based interventions.
Develop a person-centred approach
- Learn how to walk alongside individuals in a process that values difference, supports self-discovery, builds on unique strengths and recognises the interrelationships between individuals, communities and social structures as important platforms for healing.
Core principles of counselling
- Enhance your knowledge of effective counselling practice and the legal and ethical responsibilities of the counsellor. Learn verbal and professional writing standards relevant throughout the counselling process.
Explore self-awareness and reflective practice
- Engage in self-evaluation, critical thinking and reflective practice to gain a deeper understanding of the self and how this interplays with the therapeutic process, personal growth and ongoing professional development.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Estimated total fee in 2025: $12,600 (domestic full-fee paying place).
The total course fee is based on a study load of 12 units.
A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:
- The number of units studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
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.
