ACAPISNOWAUNIVERSITYCOLLEGE
COUNSELLING STARTER GUIDE
A GUIDE TO STUDYING COUNSELLING AT ACAP UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
At ACAP University College you can future proof your career by obtaining the qualification you need for your chosen profession and prospective world of work.
Our team of knowledgeable academics and experienced industry professionals are committed to delivering a learning experience that integrates contemporary work practices and industry relevancy. We provide a distinctive student-centred learning environment based on active learning activities and feedbackfocussed authentic assessment tasks. Our philosophy is simple: the best way for you to learn about human interaction is to interact.
You can choose to attend class on-campus at one of our central city locations, virtually (online), or a combination of both (hybrid delivery). Whichever mode of delivery you choose, our learning support team will provide you with the necessary academic, professional and personal assistance throughout your studies to achieve your goals.
I look forward to welcoming you and guaranteeing you feel a sense of belonging during your time learning at ACAP and beyond.
Professor Christopher Klopper SFHEA Dean - ACAP University College
WE ARE NOW A UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
In July 2024, ACAP was recognised by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) as a University College. This signifies the ongoing commitment made to sustained quality and excellence in education delivery, exceptional student outcomes, and genuine engagement with employers, industry and professional bodies.
As a result of our elevated status, ACAP is now formally known as ACAP University College. Joining an elite group of providers in this category, ACAP is the only provider delivering a suite of national courses for mental health professions, human services, law and management.
Study at ACAP to receive a University College qualification when you graduate, coupled with the hands-on, practical experience we’re renowned for, ensuring you are prepared for a truly impactful career.
With ACAP University College, you’ll develop a profound understanding of human emotion and behaviour, so you can build meaningful relationships that encourage personal growth, empower and enrich lives, including your own.
A WORLD OF REWARDING OPPORTUNITIES AWAITS
With a spotlight on mental health, and the projected job growth increasing, the counselling profession is in high demand.
A career in counselling promises to be exciting and flexible, but most of all, it’s a deeply rewarding and worthwhile occupation that allows you to create meaningful change.
What does a counsellor do?
Counsellors help people work on parts of life they find challenging or need guidance through. They give confidential support, information and therapy across a range of areas from mental health, violence and abuse to career concerns, relationships and parenting. They also use different strategies and techniques to improve their clients’ overall sense of wellbeing.
Counsellors listen with empathy and build a rapport with their clients to help them make positive changes in their lives.
Where could a qualification in counselling lead to?
Our graduates tell us that one of the attractions of studying counselling is the range of opportunities available to them. Counselling graduates can work with all ages and across private, non-profit or government agencies, including schools and health centres. Some counsellors have their own private practice and may specialise in a particular area, like drug and alcohol, grief or careers guidance. Whichever path you choose, the career opportunities in counselling are promising.
Jobs in Australia right now
11,304 $93K
14.2%
* https://www.seek.com.au/career-advice/role/counsellor
4.5
Employment for counsellors is predicted to rise, and there are graduate roles in:
• Health care and social assistance
• Education and training
• Public administration and safety
• Government bodies (Local, State and Federal)
• Large and small Non-Government-Organisations
• Community & health services
• Criminal justice system
• Faith-based agencies
• Mental health
• Not-for-profit organisations
• International agencies
WHY STUDY COUNSELLING?
We sat down with Vicki Hutton, Discipline Chair of Counselling, and asked her all the essential questions about studying counselling at ACAP University College and why counselling is a great career choice.
After working in the health and community sectors as a counsellor, crisis counsellor and group facilitator, Vicki moved into teaching and research and has been lecturing at ACAP since 2013.
Read on to find out if counselling is the right fit for you. As Vicki says, “If you’re motivated to empower others and make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, groups or a community, this is a career for you.”
Why study counselling at ACAP?
“Since 1983 ACAP has grown to provide counsellor education around Australia, with campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Byron Bay. Students learn from skilled academics, many of whom are also practitioners in the field and thus able to bring real-world experience and currency into the learning environment. ACAP is committed to ensuring this learning environment is inclusive, respectful of diversity and that all students are treated equally as they evolve into highly skilled, ethical professionals.”
Why is counselling a great future career choice?
“The COVID pandemic taught us that mental health and wellbeing can be impacted unexpectedly and for many reasons. There was – and continues to be – a demand for mental health support among all age groups. The Australian government has responded by investing more in the mental health field which means qualified counsellors are in a great position to gain employment after graduation and provide that help.”
What are some of the job opportunities or career paths for counsellors?
“Now more than ever, there is a need for qualified counsellors in areas such as mental health and wellbeing, grief and loss, trauma, addiction and family and community services, within the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Look at the jobs listed on the websites of our accrediting bodies, the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). This will give you an idea of the scope of employment for counsellors.”
Where can you study counselling at ACAP?
“ACAP offers flexibility in the way you study and where you study. There is a mix of online learning and on-campus learning as you progress through your course. Each campus has facilities to support your learning as well as a range of online support services that ensure you feel part of a community of learning.”
Are ACAP’s counselling courses accredited?
“The Bachelor of Counselling and Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy are accredited with PACFA and ACA.
Who should study counselling?
“If you’re motivated to empower others and make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, groups, or a community, this is a career for you. You get to work in an area that really interests you in a career where every day brings new challenges and achievements.”
WHY ACAP UNIVERSITY COLLEGE?
One focus, unlimited pathways.
ACAP has delivered specialist courses in human behaviour since 1983.
We’re more than just a college. We are a supportive community with deep experience that will support you on every step of your fascinating journey into the world of counselling.
We offer:
• Flexible learning options to suit you.
• Smaller class sizes - personalised learning.
• Work integrated learning - real life work experience before graduation.
We’re proud of our deep knowledge in counselling and our passionate academic team, empowering you to make real change in the world when you graduate.
Counselling is insightful
We believe that by digging deep into the workings of human behaviour, we have the insight to better understand our world to make the positive changes it needs and deserves. No matter what field you choose to work in, an understanding of the human mind and how it works, will take you further. To see more, understand more and achieve more.
Supportive learning
Our understanding of human behaviour is reflected in the way you study with us. Smaller, interactive classes to help you excel. Where we know you by name and you’re not shy to speak up and discuss your ideas, role-play and support each other. Where your passion for learning is mirrored equally by our passion for experiential teaching.
Real world ready
We’re outcomes focused, meaning it’s not just about what you learn when you’re with us, but what you’re capable of when you graduate. Our practical components and field placements give you this difference. They arm you with hours of real client interaction and insight, and professional connections.
WHEN YOU STUDY AT ACAP UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Along your study journey you’ll have ACAP’s community of educators, support services and fellow students with you for encouragement and guidance. We come from many backgrounds and experiences, but we all share the belief that counselling is the key to a better world.
Cayetana Bachelor of Counselling
“Before commencing at ACAP, I never dreamed I could be where I am today. With the help of the resources and so many people at ACAP, I achieved significantly more than the piece of paper at graduation. I learned so much about myself through this discipline, and in turn, I have been able to gain the skills and confidence to become a safe space for those who need it.”
“I decided to study at ACAP because a friend of mine who had completed her studies with ACAP had amazing things to say about her experience. I am so glad I did as now I would recommend ACAP to others. The placement component in particular is enriching and manageable, unlike what is offered at some other universities.”
James Bachelor of Psychological Science, Diploma of Counselling Skills
Dana Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy
“The big thing for me at ACAP is that age is not a barrier, it’s how much you enjoy and appreciate what you’re doing that makes you a success. Before I began my studies, I was a volunteer counsellor for Lifeline. I’m now a paid employee. If you’re interested in the human condition, this is the place to be. My diploma activated parts of my brain I hadn’t used for 30 or 40 years. And that is incredibly satisfying.”
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
ADVICE FROM OUR GRADUATES
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FEES AND PAYMENTS
Don’t let funding get in the way of your study dreams.
There’s a wealth of funding assistance that may be available to you, including government assistance such as FEE-HELP.
QUALITY AND ACCREDITATION
ACAP University College is an Institute of Higher Education with self-accrediting authority under the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).
To ensure we deliver the most up-to-date material, we regularly undertake the accreditation process with relevant governing industry bodies.
This process allows for quality checks and assurances and provides certainty to students that our courses are industryrelevant and meet training standards.
ACAP’s counselling courses are accredited by the below industry bodies.
Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are the essential components of a course that demonstrate the abilities, knowledge and skills to achieve the core learning outcomes.
STUDY COUNSELLING
Are you passionate about the welfare of others, and ready to make a genuine difference in your community?
With ACAP’s counselling courses you will gain practical skills and strategies to successfully explore a career in contemporary counselling. Support individuals, couples, families or groups with the lens of the cultural and social-political context in which they live.
Click on the courses below to find which course best suits you and the placement opportunities you will experience.
ACAP University College Pty Ltd. TEQSA Provider Category: University College, TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12009, National CRICOS Provider Code: 01328A, RTO: 0500, ACN: 057 495 299.
The information contained in this guide is correct at the time of publication, however, ACAP University College reserves the right to alter, amend or delete details at any time without notice. Prospective students should refer to ACAP’s website for current information before applying. This guide is provided free of charge. 241025-1732 - 11/24.
Adelaide
Brisbane
15-19 Franklin Street, Adelaide, SA, 5000 Ground Floor, 410 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD, 4000
Byron Bay
373-391 Ewingsdale Road, Byron Bay, NSW, 2481
Melbourne
Level 3, Kmart Centre, 222 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
Perth
116-120 Roe Street, Northbridge, Perth, WA, 6003
Sydney
Level 11, 255 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000