Looking to study counselling in Australia? The Bachelor of Counselling (CRICOS course code 090581F) is a 3-year Bachelor Degree offered by Griffith University, a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00233E). This course prepares students for professional counselling roles with a strong focus on work-integrated learning, including a 28-week placement. Delivered across three campuses in Queensland—Mt Gravatt, Nathan, and Gold Coast—the program equips graduates with skills in human welfare and counselling theories. Griffith University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering international students quality education under the ESOS Act protections. Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to compare courses, understand visa requirements, and plan your study journey. Note: all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
The Bachelor of Counselling (CRICOS course code 090581F) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by Griffith University over 3 years (156 weeks). This course falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090513 - Counselling). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Griffith University is a public university with multiple campuses in Queensland, known for its strong industry connections and research output. The course is taught in English and does not offer dual qualifications or foundation studies. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring course quality and student support. For current details, always refer to the provider's website.
The Bachelor of Counselling provides foundational knowledge in counselling theories, human development, and ethical practice. You will explore areas such as interpersonal communication, mental health, group facilitation, and cross-cultural counselling. The curriculum integrates theoretical learning with practical skills, preparing graduates for roles in community services, mental health support, and private practice. Field of education 0905 focuses on human welfare studies and services, emphasizing client-centred approaches and evidence-based interventions. While specific subjects are determined by Griffith University, typical bachelor-level counselling programs include supervised placements and research methods. This course is ideal for those seeking to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
The Bachelor of Counselling is a 3-year program, recorded as 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no combined degree). Study mode is typically full-time on campus, though students should confirm with Griffith University for any part-time or online options. As a bachelor-level course, it requires substantial in-person attendance for practical components. International students must maintain full-time enrolment under their student visa conditions. The duration is standard for Australian bachelor degrees, allowing graduates to meet professional accreditation requirements.
Tuition for the Bachelor of Counselling is A$106,500 (indicative, from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, administration) are approximately A$2,773, bringing the estimated total to A$109,273. These fees are set by Griffith University and subject to change annually. IMPORTANT: The above figures do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fee schedules, always visit Griffith University's official website. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting an additional A$25,000–A$35,000 per year for living expenses in Queensland, including rent, groceries, and transport. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Griffith University must adhere to ESOS Act fee protection requirements.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent English language tests may be accepted. Prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 are expected, and some programs may require prerequisite subjects in English or humanities. Griffith University may also consider foundation studies or pathway programs if you don't meet direct entry requirements. Always check the specific entry criteria for your country on the Griffith University website. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission; the university assesses each application holistically. For visa purposes, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity.
This course includes a compulsory work-integrated learning component: 28 weeks of placement at 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This practical experience is integral to developing counselling skills and may involve placements in community health centres, schools, or private practices under supervision. The work component is a key feature of the program, allowing students to apply theory in real-world settings and build professional networks. International students must ensure their student visa conditions (e.g., work rights up to 48 hours per fortnight) are compatible with placement requirements. Griffith University will assist in arranging placements, but students should be prepared for travel to placement sites.
The Bachelor of Counselling is delivered at three campuses in Queensland: Brisbane South (Mt Gravatt) in Mount Gravatt, Brisbane South (Nathan) in Nathan, and Gold Coast in Southport. All campuses are well-connected by public transport, with buses and light rail serving the Gold Coast campus. Brisbane and Gold Coast are major student hubs, hosting hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Brisbane are slightly lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent of A$200–A$350 for shared accommodation. The Gold Coast offers a coastal lifestyle with similar costs. Both cities have diverse student populations and extensive support services for international students.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Upon course completion, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as a student are protected. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Queensland is Australia's second-largest state by area, known for its warm climate and outdoor lifestyle. Brisbane and the Gold Coast are popular among international students, with lower living costs compared to Sydney and Melbourne. Brisbane has a student population of over 100,000, with many universities and VET providers. The Gold Coast is famous for its beaches and tourism industry, offering a relaxed yet vibrant student life. Both cities have excellent public transport, diverse food scenes, and strong job markets for part-time work. However, consider the distance from home, cultural adjustment, and climate. HeadStart Academy's data shows over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia, so weigh your options carefully.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Counselling at Griffith University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm Griffith University (00233E) offers the course you want. 2. **Apply directly to Griffith University** – Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on their website. Submit your academic transcripts and supporting documents. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget OSHC and GTE requirements.
Ready to start your counselling career? Explore Griffith University or begin your application today.
Bachelor of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith University. 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.