Bachelor of Counselling (CRICOS course code 0101646) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by ACAP University College over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 qualification prepares you for a career in counselling and human services, with a focus on theoretical knowledge and practical skills in therapeutic communication, mental health, and professional ethics. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01328A), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you're exploring study options in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney, this page provides a comprehensive overview of fees, entry requirements, and student visa essentials. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for visa advice.
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The Bachelor of Counselling is a three-year bachelor degree that equips students with the knowledge and competencies to work as professional counsellors in diverse settings. Delivered by ACAP University College, a private higher education provider with multiple campuses across Australia, this course is registered on CRICOS under code 0101646. The field of education is Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) with specialisation in Counselling (090513). Graduates typically develop skills in active listening, assessment, intervention planning, and ethical practice. The course includes a work-integrated learning component of 200 hours, providing real-world experience. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and provider accountability. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, making it a leading destination for counselling studies.
The Bachelor of Counselling covers core areas of counselling theory and practice, including human development, psychopathology, group work, and family therapy. Students learn to apply evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, person-centred therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy. The curriculum emphasises cultural competence, ethical decision-making, and self-care. While specific subject offerings may vary, the program typically includes foundational units in psychology, sociology, and research methods. Graduates are prepared for roles in community health, private practice, schools, and non-profit organisations. Field education placements allow students to integrate theory with practice under supervision. This degree is ideal for those seeking to meet the educational requirements for membership in professional counselling bodies.
The Bachelor of Counselling has a duration of 3 years, equivalent to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual awards or foundation studies component. Students typically attend full-time on campus, with some institutions offering blended or online options. ACAP University College delivers the program face-to-face at its Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Check with the provider for specific timetables and study load requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Counselling is A$87,528 for the full program, with non-tuition fees of A$1,369, bringing the estimated total to A$88,897. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with ACAP University College at www.acap.edu.au. Note that this estimate does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For 2026, OSHC costs approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city: in Adelaide, weekly rent averages $200–$400; in Sydney or Melbourne, $300–$600. Budgeting for groceries ($80–$150/week) and transport ($30–$60/week) is essential. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0, or equivalent English language test results. Prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 certificate are usually required. Some providers may consider mature-age entry or pathway programs. ACAP University College may offer foundation or diploma programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Check the provider's website for precise criteria. All entry requirements are set by the institution; HeadStart Academy provides only general guidance. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention and meet financial capacity requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks at 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) involves supervised industry placements, internships, or clinical placements in counselling settings such as community health centres, schools, or private practices. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional skills, and build networks. International students can undertake placements as part of their course, and work hours count towards visa work rights (48 hours per fortnight during study periods). Ensure your placement is approved by the provider and complies with visa conditions.
The Bachelor of Counselling is delivered at four ACAP University College campuses: Adelaide (SA), Brisbane (QLD), Melbourne (VIC), and Sydney (NSW). Each campus is located in a major city with a large international student population. Adelaide offers affordable living and a relaxed lifestyle; Brisbane provides a subtropical climate and growing job market; Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and public transport; Sydney offers vibrant city life but higher costs. All campuses are accessible via public transport. When choosing a location, consider living costs, climate, and proximity to counselling networks. HeadStart Academy can help you compare city-specific data.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance requirements, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. You must also show financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. Dependants may accompany you on a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). Visa conditions are subject to change; consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Counselling at ACAP University College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Counselling), and city to confirm your choice. 2. Apply directly to ACAP University College. Check entry requirements, prepare your English test score (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – no referral fees.
Counselling is a rewarding field with growing demand in Australia. Before enrolling, consider your career goals: do you want to work in mental health, aged care, or rehabilitation? The Bachelor of Counselling is a generalist degree that can lead to further study (e.g., Master of Counselling) for specialisation. Think about location: each campus city has different living costs and job markets. Adelaide is more affordable, while Sydney has higher salaries but higher rent. Also consider the work component – you'll need to arrange transport to placement sites. CRICOS registration guarantees quality, but always verify current provider registration at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. HeadStart Academy provides data from the official register to help you make informed decisions.
Start your counselling career today – explore the Bachelor of Counselling at ACAP University College on HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at ACAP University College. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.