Torrens University Australia
Graduate Diploma of Counselling
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 Months
Develop advanced counselling knowledge and practical clinical capability through this online graduate diploma, combining flexible study with supervised placement, compulsory skills training and Australian Counselling Association accreditation.
Course overview
The Graduate Diploma of Counselling is an online postgraduate qualification designed for graduates seeking to enter the counselling profession, strengthen their current practice or progress to master's-level study. The course combines contemporary counselling theory with supervised practical experience to prepare graduates for professional counselling roles across health, community and wellbeing settings.
Throughout the course, you'll strengthen your ability to establish therapeutic relationships, apply evidence-informed counselling approaches and communicate effectively with clients experiencing a range of personal and psychological challenges. You'll develop practical counselling capability while exploring ethical practice, professional self-care, trauma-informed approaches, telehealth delivery and reflective practice, preparing you to provide client-centred support across diverse settings.
Although delivered online, the course includes compulsory practical components to ensure graduates develop real-world counselling experience. You'll complete 40 hours of supervised work placement and 80 hours of on-campus Practical Intensive Workshops that build hands-on counselling skills before placement. Accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), the qualification also provides a pathway to the Master of Counselling for students wishing to continue their postgraduate studies.
Key facts
14th September, 2026
What you will study
These eight core subjects must be completed.
- Advanced Therapeutic Communication
- Theoretical Approaches to Counselling
- Life Stages and Development
- Self Care and Developing Resilience
- Mental Health
- Digital Counselling
- Clinical Practice and Supervision
- Advanced Counselling Skills
Entry requirements
Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet at least one of the requirements listed below.
- AQF Level 7 (Bachelor's degree) or above in a relevant discipline
- A Bachelor's degree and complete the Torrens Work Life entry form demonstrating your interest in and suitability to gain entry to the course. Students who do not have a prior degree in a related field must successfully complete the Graduate Certificate prior to enrolling in the Graduate Diploma, Master's or Advanced Master's. This is a professional accreditation requirement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Learning outcomes
- Support clients with a range of issues within ethical and professional requirements
- Understand and apply psychotherapeutic wellbeing to practice
- Provide counselling to clients in a supervised and safe environment
- Deepen and broaden communication and interpersonal skills
- Use telehealth and digital techniques in individual and group settings
- Recognise life stages and development as it applies to clients
Career outcomes
The Graduate Diploma of Public Health has been designed to expand your employment opportunities in roles that leverage counselling and communication skills. You’ll have a range of job opportunities available in the professional domain of counselling and other support services, as well as the opportunity to continue your studies at master's level.
Potential career paths:
- Counsellor
- Case manager
- Rehabilitation counsellor
- Addiction counsellor
Fees and FEE-HELP
Estimated total price in 2026: $19,904 (domestic full-fee paying place)
Subject prices are based on 10-credit-point blocks.
Student fees may vary in accordance with:
- The number of subjects studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of subjects.
- 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.
