Counselling

Australia’s Christian Counselling Degree — Study Online with a Faith Difference

The Bachelor of Counselling at the University of Divinity integrates evidence-based counselling practice, faith perspectives and students’ individual journeys — preparing professional Counsellors for service to their communities.

Our counselling students gain a broad, coherent and integrated understanding of various counselling approaches relevant to diverse clients. With an emphasis on practical, skills- based assessment, we facilitate the development of clinical, ethical and cultural judgement which informs students’ professional and collegiate practice. Critical reflection on how self, the counselling profession, faith and society impacts and shapes notions of wellbeing, distress, and marginalisation enhances students’ personal and professional insight.

Counselling is hosted by ALC

The Counselling program at the University of Divinity is hosted and delivered by Australian Lutheran College.

Australian Lutheran College is a diverse learning community, committed to learning for life, providing excellence in theological education and training that prepares tomorrow’s leaders in church and community.

What do counselling students say about the course?

Sue2nd year student 2024
fter attending other universities I would say that it is the intimate style of education that makes the counselling degree at the University of Divinity unique. Smaller class sizes and access to support makes it easy to navigate the course. The lecturers are very passionate which is reflected in the positivity of the students. I really wouldn’t study anywhere else.
Christina2nd year student 2024
Each class leaves me inspired and eager to learn more. The support and guidance from my professors/lectures and peers has been invaluable. The collaborative learning environment fosters a sense of community and encourages meaningful exchanges of ideas and perspectives. Overall, I cannot emphasise enough how grateful I am for the opportunity to pursue this degree.
Nancy2nd year student 2023
Thank you for having the best teachers to teach us. … The lecturers you chose were such beautiful human beings. Such learned people who taught with so much compassion, patience and understanding it made me feel safe to ask questions… I learned so much from them and they made us feel empowered.
Fiona2nd year student 2023
I took the leap of faith to start my Counselling journey with the University of Divinity. My journey has been a bit like a river that ebbs and flows, and has been rocky along the way, but my teachers have always shown me the way forward. I have never regretted my choice to study with the University of Divinity!

Modes of Learning

Learning Materials

Available through online modules for students to access at any time 24/7 during the unit.

Seminars

Scheduled outside normal working hours to permit flexibility.

Intensives

An in-person experiential focus and a great way to meet your fellow classmates in person. Note that all intensives are held in Melbourne.

Why study Counselling with the University of Divinity?

#1 in Australia for student experience

The University of Divinity is nationally recognised as having the most positive student experience of any university in Australia.

Commonwealth Supported Places

Commonwealth Supported Places may be available for some Bachelor of Counselling students. Places are allocated on an equity basis to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds. A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. For the purposes of Equity Places, disadvantaged groups include:

  • students from low SES backgrounds
  • students from inner regional, outer regional, remote and very remote areas
  • students who are first in family to study at university
  • First Nations students students with a disability

The 2027 unit tuition fee for students who are eligible for a commonwealth-supported place is AUD$2,253 per unit.

Highly experienced teachers

The Counselling program teachers and associates have significant crossover experience between professional practice and academia.

Under their guidance, you will learn critical thinking, evidence-based practice and develop empathy allowing you to work to effectively with a range of clients.

Industry accreditation and memberships

The Bachelor of Counselling is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association.

The Australian Counselling Association (ACA) is the largest professional association for registered counsellors, psychotherapists and students in the Australia.

The Bachelor of Counselling is endorsed by the Christian Counsellors Association of Australia.

The Christian Counsellors Association of Australia (CCAA) is the nation’s key professional body for counsellors who work at the intersection of faith and professional practice. 

The University of Divinity is a member of the National Heads of Counselling and Psychotherapy Education network.

The network represents Higher Education providers throughout Australia who deliver counselling training.

Study Information

Course Overview

The need for well-trained mental health professionals has never been greater. As a counsellor you will work alongside other committed professionals to improve the lives of many people. Be they young people, couples, families, people self-identifying as members of a diversity community, or the elderly – you will make a difference.

To get you on the right path a Bachelor of Counselling at the University of Divinity will not only teach you how to be a competent practitioner, but help you to become a wise practitioner. In fact, we at the university are committed to virtues such as hope, courage, and compassion. It’s one of the things that makes us different. In addition, we are determined to train counsellors for the mid-21st century. You will therefore also learn about AI in mental health as well as basic business skills. By the end of your training you will be ready to take on the challenge of clients and to play your part in an exciting profession dedicated to helping others.

Course Duration
AQF and Course Codes
Tuition Fees
AU$52,416
at 2026 fees
Next Intake
February, April, July
Course Rules

Full description including the course structure, admission requirements and how to apply.

Delivery and classes

You can visit the ALC website for current delivery information including:

  • Application dates throughout the year and how to book an appointment with a course advisor.
  • Specific information about the delivery of the course including locations, learning modes, calendars and timetables.
  • A guide on the progression of units throughout your course.
  • Facilities and support available to you as a student.

How to apply

Register your interest

Contact the team at Australian Lutheran College to register your interest. The ALC team can help you with questions about the course, units, delivery information and the admissions process.

Apply for admission

Once you’re ready to apply, fill out the application form. You’ll be contacted to arrange a time for an interview with the Program Director. The purpose of the interview is to ensure that this course is right for you.

Submit your completed application form by email to the team at Australian Lutheran College, at: enquiries@alc.edu.au

Contact

For more information and course advice (prospective and current students):

Australian Lutheran College
Email: enquiries@alc.edu.au
Phone: (08) 7120 8200
Website: https://alc.edu.au/study/counselling-programs/