Bachelor of Counselling (CRICOS course code 074094K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 qualification is designed for international students seeking a career in counselling and human welfare. Delivered at UniSC campuses in Moreton Bay and Sunshine Coast, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work-integrated learning. As a CRICOS-registered provider (01595D), University of the Sunshine Coast meets Australian Government standards for international education. Graduates are prepared for roles in community services, mental health support, and counselling practice. The program includes a substantial work component of 20 weeks (500 hours) to build real-world skills. With an indicative tuition fee of A$85,500, it offers a comprehensive pathway into the counselling profession in Australia.
Bachelor of Counselling (CRICOS course code 074094K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 3 years. This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services, 090513 Counselling). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The program is taught in English and is available at two campuses in Queensland: UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, this degree is part of a robust international education system. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. As an ESOS Act-protected institution, University of the Sunshine Coast guarantees quality education and student rights.
As a Bachelor Degree in Counselling, students explore theories of counselling, human development, and therapeutic interventions. The curriculum typically covers communication skills, ethics, mental health, and cross-cultural counselling. Graduates develop competencies to support individuals and communities facing personal challenges. While specific subjects are set by the provider, the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services emphasises practical application. Students engage with case studies, role-play, and supervised placements. This foundation prepares graduates for further study or direct entry into roles such as counsellors, case workers, or community support officers. The course aligns with Australian industry standards and may lead to membership with professional bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). Always confirm specific learning outcomes with University of the Sunshine Coast.
The Bachelor of Counselling is a 3-year full-time program, equating to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification; it does not include a dual degree or foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at either UniSC Moreton Bay or UniSC Sunshine Coast. The program may involve full-time study with a mix of lectures, tutorials, and practical components. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. The duration is fixed but may be extended if study is part-time (with permission) or if the student undertakes additional work-integrated learning components. Always check the provider's official website for exact study load and delivery modes.
The indicative tuition fee for this Bachelor of Counselling is A$85,500 for the entire 3-year program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total cost is therefore A$85,500. However, this does not include mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For example, living costs in Queensland vary: weekly rent ranges from $200-$400, groceries around $80-$150, and public transport about $30-$50, depending on the city. OSHC costs approximately $500-$700 per year for single cover. Students should budget an additional $21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs guideline) for living expenses plus OSHC and visa fees. Course fees are set by institutions and subject to change — always verify with the provider on their website (www.usc.edu.au) for the most current figures.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0 (specific requirements should be confirmed with University of the Sunshine Coast). Equivalent English language tests may also be accepted. For academic entry, students generally need completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. Some students may need to complete foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements. University of the Sunshine Coast offers pathway options through its own programs or affiliated colleges. Applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. Always check the provider's official entry criteria as they can change. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 20 weeks of placement, totaling approximately 500 hours (25 hours per week). This practical experience allows students to apply counselling theories in real-world settings such as community health centres, schools, or private practices. Placements are supervised by qualified professionals and are integral to developing professional competencies. Students gain hands-on skills in client assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical practice. The work component also enhances employability and can count towards professional accreditation. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for any unpaid placement; work placements are typically part of the course and do not count toward the 48 hours per fortnight work limit. Check with the provider for placement support and eligibility.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Queensland: UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie (north of Brisbane) and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs (near the Sunshine Coast). Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. Petrie has a train station linking to Brisbane CBD, while Sippy Downs is accessible via bus from Sunshine Coast towns. The Sunshine Coast region is home to around 350,000 residents and is popular among international students for its lifestyle and lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Brisbane, just south of Petrie, has over 100,000 international students. Queensland offers a diverse study environment with many CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Petrie and Sippy Downs are similar: rent $180-$350 per week, with groceries and transport costing around $150-$200 per week. For more on Queensland as a study destination, visit our states/qld page.
International students must hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this Bachelor of Counselling on campus in Australia. This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. For detailed visa information, see our student-visa-subclass-500 page. Always consult a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Applying to study this course involves three key steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers like University of the Sunshine Coast to ensure they are approved to enrol international students. Filter by course level, field, and location to find the best fit. Second, apply directly to University of the Sunshine Coast through their online application portal. You'll need to meet entry requirements including English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS) and academic qualifications. Submit transcripts, evidence of English, and a personal statement. Deadlines vary, so check the provider's website (www.usc.edu.au). Third, once you receive a Letter of Offer and accept it, you'll get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to maintain OSHC and meet GTE requirements. For a full guide, visit our glossary/cricos page. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees.
Before committing to this counselling degree, think about your career goals and the practical demands of the profession. Counselling requires strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and resilience. The work-integrated learning component (500 hours) means you'll need to travel to placement sites, which could add to living costs. Consider the Sunshine Coast region: it has a growing population but fewer large employers than Brisbane. However, it offers a relaxed lifestyle and lower rent. Queensland has many counselling job opportunities in community health and private practice. Also, check if the course is accredited by professional bodies like ACA or PACFA, as this affects your ability to practice. Finally, ensure you understand the ESOS Act protections that safeguard your rights as an international student. For broader context, explore our study/bachelor-degree/qld page and states/qld page for more on Queensland as a study destination.
Ready to start your counselling career? Explore the Bachelor of Counselling at University of the Sunshine Coast today. Visit their website at www.usc.edu.au for application details and up-to-date fees.
Bachelor of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.