Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health)

Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health)

Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health) (CRICOS course code 111883C) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Flinders University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification focuses on counselling within behavioural health contexts, equipping students with practical skills in therapeutic communication, mental health support, and ethical practice. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Flinders University, a government provider (CRICOS 00114A), offers this program at its Bedford Park campus in Adelaide, South Australia. The course includes a work-integrated learning component of 195 hours, providing real-world experience. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate options like this one. All data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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What You'll Study

This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of Society and Culture (0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services), specifically Counselling (090513). Students develop advanced skills in counselling theory, assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical decision-making. The curriculum typically covers behavioural health frameworks, cultural competence, and evidence-based practices. Graduates are prepared for roles in community health, mental health services, and private practice support. This level of study assumes prior undergraduate qualifications, building on foundational knowledge to deepen practical and analytical capabilities.

Duration and Study Mode

The course is registered on CRICOS as 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students should plan for a full-time commitment of around 20-25 hours per week of classes and independent study. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards.

Fees (Indicative)

Indicative fees from the CRICOS register: tuition A$39,300, non-tuition fees A$1,797, estimated total A$41,097. These figures are set by Flinders University and subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge (A$1,600 as of 2025) are not included. For living costs in Adelaide, budget approximately A$400-550 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: flinders.edu.au. Data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

English proficiency: IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent) is typically required for graduate diploma entry. Prior qualifications: applicants generally need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as health sciences, social work, or psychology. Specific prerequisites vary — check with Flinders University for exact requirements. Foundation or pathway options: if you do not meet entry criteria, the provider may offer pathway programs; refer to their website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa eligibility.

Work Component

Yes, the course includes a work component: 13 weeks at 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 195 hours. This work-integrated learning involves an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a counselling or behavioural health setting. It provides hands-on experience under professional supervision, enhancing employability and practical skills. All placements are arranged by Flinders University in compliance with Australian workplace laws. International students must hold a valid student visa with work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks).

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at Bedford Park — BEDFORD PARK, SA. Bedford Park is a suburb of Adelaide, South Australia's capital. Adelaide has over 60 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population of around 30,000 international students. Living costs are lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average rent A$200-400 per week. Public transport (buses and trains) connects the campus to the city centre. The Flinders University campus is near the Flinders Medical Centre, offering health and research facilities. Studying in Adelaide provides a supportive environment with strong community ties.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

To study this Graduate Diploma, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants on a Student Dependent visa (Subclass 500) may have work rights as well. The ESOS Act protects international students, including tuition protection and refund policies. For visa applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

Studying Counselling in Adelaide

Adelaide is known for its affordable lifestyle and strong education sector. With over 60 CRICOS-registered providers, students have a wide choice of courses. The city's public transport includes free tram services and affordable bus passes (MetroCard). Weekly living costs: rent A$200-400, groceries A$70-120, transport A$30-60. Adelaide's student community is welcoming, with events and support services. For counselling studies, placements are available across hospitals, community health centres, and private practices. Consider whether Adelaide's climate and slower pace suit you — it offers a focused study environment compared to larger cities.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health) at Flinders University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify the course code 111883C and check provider details. 2. Apply directly to Flinders University: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS etc.), and any required documents. Check application deadlines on flinders.edu.au. You may also need a Statement of Purpose. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the university issues your CoE, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. You will need OSHC, proof of funds, and GTE statement.

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Source-backed course facts

Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Flinders University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health)
CRICOS course code
111883C
Provider
Flinders University (00114A)
Course level
Graduate Diploma
Field of education
09 - Society and Culture
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$39,300
Estimated total (indicative)
A$41,097
Delivery locations
BEDFORD PARK
Work component
Yes (195 total hours)

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

Indicative fees from the CRICOS register are A$39,300 for tuition and A$1,797 in non-tuition fees, totalling A$41,097. These are set by Flinders University and subject to change. Additional costs include OSHC (around A$600-800 annually for singles), living expenses (approximately A$20,000-25,000 per year), and the visa application charge (A$1,600). Always check the provider's website for the most current fee schedule. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program, typically requiring around 20-25 hours per week of study. The schedule may include evening or intensive sessions. If you wish to study part-time, that may affect your student visa conditions — check with the Department of Home Affairs. The course includes a 13-week work component (195 hours).
General entry requirements: IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent) and a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., health, social work, psychology). Some students may need to complete prerequisite subjects. Flinders University may also consider work experience. For precise entry criteria, refer to the provider's website. Foundation or pathway options are available if you do not meet the degree requirement — check directly with Flinders. English language waivers may apply for some countries.
The course is delivered at Flinders University's Bedford Park campus in Bedford Park, South Australia. This location is approximately 12 km south of Adelaide's city center. The campus is accessible by bus from the city and nearby suburbs. The area is home to the Flinders Medical Centre and various health facilities, offering a rich environment for counselling students. No other delivery locations are listed on the CRICOS register for this course code.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$41,097 for Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Behavioural Health) (tuition A$39,300). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Flinders University before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 111883C, offered by Flinders University (provider code 00114A). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.