Diploma of Counselling Skills (CRICOS course code 0101661) is a Diploma delivered by ACAP University College over 1 year. This CRICOS-registered course (provider code 01328A) is designed for international students seeking foundational skills in counselling within Australia’s human welfare sector. Based on the official CRICOS register (April 2026), the course sits within the field of Society and Culture (0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services). Students develop essential counselling techniques, ethical frameworks, and communication skills for roles such as support worker or case assistant. ACAP University College, a private higher education provider with campuses in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, offers this course in face-to-face mode. As a CRICOS-registered institution, ACAP is monitored under the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers offering 26,000+ courses, Australia remains a top destination for counselling studies. This page provides indicative fees, entry guidance, and application steps – always verify current details with ACAP University College directly.
Diploma of Counselling Skills (CRICOS 0101661) is an Australian Quality Framework (AQF) Level 5 qualification offered by ACAP University College (CRICOS 01328A). The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award or work placement component. The broader field is 0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services, which includes counselling, welfare, and community work. This diploma provides a pathway into entry-level counselling roles or further study in psychology or social work. All listed institutions on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, meaning they meet Australian Government standards for international education. The CRICOS register is the definitive source for verifying provider and course details. Since 1 April 2026, there are 1,556 registered providers and 26,433 courses available to international students. This diploma at ACAP is a popular choice for its practical focus and multiple campus locations across major Australian cities.
This Diploma of Counselling Skills covers foundational counselling theories, ethical practice, and interpersonal communication within a human welfare context. Students explore active listening, client assessment, case management, and self-care strategies. The curriculum reflects the AQF Level 5 expectation of developing broad skills and knowledge for paraprofessional roles. While ACAP University College designs its specific syllabus, typical subjects include counselling micro-skills, mental health first aid, cultural competence, and advocacy. Graduates emerge with the ability to support individuals in community services, aged care, or non-profit settings. Because this is a non-VET course (VET national code not applicable), it is delivered in a higher education environment. For precise subject listings, always refer to ACAP’s official website.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Counselling Skills has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year) for full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered on-campus at four locations: Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. There is no online or blended option listed on CRICOS for this course code. It is a single qualification – not combined with any other diploma or degree. Students are expected to attend classes on a full-time basis, typically 20-25 hours per week, in line with student visa conditions. The 52-week period includes scheduled breaks, allowing students to work unlimited hours during those periods (subject to visa conditions).
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Counselling Skills (0101661) are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026. Tuition is A$29,176, and non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, administration) amount to A$623, giving an estimated total of A$29,799. Please note this excludes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. Living costs vary by city: for example, in Adelaide, weekly rent may range from A$200–350, while Sydney can be A$300–550. Public transport in cities like Melbourne (myki) and Sydney (Opal) offers concessions for students. Always confirm current fees with ACAP University College, as they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays fees for transparency but does not set them.
Entry to this Diploma typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) and demonstrated English proficiency. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5). Other tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. ACAP University College may have specific academic prerequisites or foundation/pathway options for students who do not meet standard entry. International applicants should also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. Since these are general guidelines, always check ACAP’s official website for the most current entry criteria. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly or consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may engage in part-time work: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not interfere with course attendance. The Diploma itself is purely academic, with no clinical placement requirement. For work rights and conditions, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The diploma is delivered at four ACAP campuses: Adelaide (SA), Brisbane (West End, QLD), Melbourne (VIC), and Sydney (NSW). Each campus is in a central or well-connected suburb, with easy access to public transport. Adelaide has around 80,000 international students, with lower living costs than eastern capitals. Brisbane’s West End is near cultural hubs and the Brisbane River. Melbourne and Sydney are Australia’s largest student cities, with extensive transport networks and student communities. All campuses are CRICOS-registered delivery sites. When choosing a location, consider climate, cost of living, and lifestyle preferences.
To study this Diploma on campus in Australia, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from ACAP, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student from July 2026), and OSHC for the course duration. The visa allows work rights as described above. Students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. The application fee is currently A$710 (subject to change). All CRICOS-registered courses are ESOS-protected, meaning your tuition is safeguarded if the provider fails to deliver. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Ready to apply for the Diploma of Counselling Skills at ACAP University College? Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to confirm that ACAP University College (01328A) and this course (0101661) meet your goals. Compare similar courses in counselling to find the best fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit ACAP University College’s website (www.acap.edu.au) for application forms, entry requirements, and deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores, and any other required documents. Submit your application and await an offer letter.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ACAP issues your CoE, you can apply for the student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide biometrics, attend a health check if needed, and pay the visa fee. After approval, you can arrange travel, OSHC, and accommodation.
HeadStart Academy is here to help you navigate the process – always verify official sources and seek professional advice when needed.
Ready to take the next step in your counselling career? Start your application to ACAP University College today.
Diploma of Counselling Skills 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.