Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the school accredited?
Yes! The Kelowna College of Professional Counselling is accredited and registered with the Private Career Training Institutions Agency of BC. Students may be eligible for Federal and/or provincial student loans and other types of tuition assistance.
What can I expect after I enroll?
Education at the College of Professional Counselling is based on the belief that experience is the greatest teacher. Students learn through hands-on skill development exercises in simulated counselling settings. Self-awareness is also an important part of the classroom experience. The course curriculum includes guest speakers, films and field trips.
Who are the instructors?
Instructors are highly trained professional counsellors with Masters' and Ph. D. degrees who bring years of education and experience into the classroom. They create a safe learning environment which promotes the sharing of ideas. Students are encouraged to develop their natural abilities and interests, while learning to apply a wide variety of effective counselling theories and skills.
Who are the students?
The adult students at KCPC come from varying backgrounds: some have been out of school or the job market for a number of years, others may be recent graduates of high school or university seeking the job-related skills necessary to begin a new career. The common bond between all the students is their genuine desire to help others and a strong motivation to find employment as professional counselors or mental health providers.
How does a diploma offered through the Kelowna College of Professional Counselling compare with an undergraduate degree from a university?
The instructors, courses and textbooks at the Kelowna College are comparable to those offered a the undergraduate University level; at KCPC the one year Diploma program (1,000 hours) is devoted to teaching the theories and skills required for entry-level employment. A University degree requires a minimum of four years to complete and focuses on a broad range of subjects rather than vocational skill development. Transfer credits for courses taken at KCPC may apply toward a BA degree at other colleges and universities at the discretion of their Admissions Departments.
What about job opportunities?
Prior to graduation, students develop an individualized career plan that includes a portfolio of practical job skills. Although we cannot guarantee employment, graduates of KCPC are prepared to work within a broad range of public agencies. Many choose to enter private practice or apply their training in other business endeavors. Wherever their career paths lead, our graduates bring with them in-depth understanding, up-to-date skills and the professional competency to assist clients with a variety of concerns.
Can graduates join a professional association?
Yes! Upon completion of the Diploma program graduates can join the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) and qualify for liability insurance coverage. Recent graduates are encouraged to work under the guidance of a supervisor for their first 2 years of practice in order to earn the title "Registered Professional Counsellor" (RPC).
How long does it take to complete the program?
Students can complete the Certificate or Diploma Programs in seven months to one year of classroom study or through Distance Education. Each course is 3 weeks (60 hours) in length. On campus classes are held Monday - Friday from 8:30AM to 12:30PM, 1-5PM or evenings (depending on enrollment).
When does the next program begin?
Courses are scheduled on a continuous cycle. Depending on openings in the program, new students can join at the beginning of any course.
What is the cost of tuition?
Tuition for each course is $870 (on-campus) or $680 (distance education). Tuition for all courses includes textbooks and course materials. Talk with your Admissions Advisor for suggestions about funding options.
How do students learn counselling skills through Distance Education?
KCPC's unique approach to distance learning gives students the opportunity for hands-on
skill development
and theories through interactive role-play assignments, video demonstrations, and field trips, in addition to a supervised
skill development
in a community mental health setting.
Where is the campus located?
Kelowna is a medium sized city built around beautiful Okanagan Lake, in the interior of B.C.: population 100,000. The campus is located on a bus line in the charming downtown district, adjacent to the City Park, beaches, shops and housing. Students find the cost of living in Kelowna to be reasonable compared to larger metropolitan areas. |
