Diploma Description
The Diploma of Applied Psychology and Counselling is a comprehensive, 1- year vocational training program for entry-level careers in the mental health field. The program consists of 16 courses (960 instructional hours, totaling 64 credits). Each 3 week, (60 hour) course teaches major counselling theories and skill development specific to the course topic. Courses are offered on-campus, and through distance learning. Faculty members hold Masters or Ph.D. degrees and bring years of professional experience to the classroom. Instruction is student-centered (geared to a variety of learning styles), and experiential.
Employment preparation:
Textbooks, lectures, video and live demonstrations, and interactive exercises prepare students to meet job requirements for entry-level counselling positions in private practice and community mental health settings. Graduates are qualified to work within their scope of practice with issues such as:
- depression and anxiety related disorders
- addictions: prevention, recovery and follow-up treatment
- youth, family and couples counselling
- suicide and emergency intervention
- developmental milestones
- loss and grief
- ethical decision making and cultural diversity
- Aboriginal issues
- career planning
- community development
- group counselling and workshop facilitation
Hands-on learning:
Interactive skill-building exercises simulate mental health situations related to the course topic. Under supervision, students apply the latest theories and skills, which are readily transferable to employment settings.
Academic preparation:
Curriculum covers major theories and concepts drawn from psychology, social work, and counselling; providing a broad information base for students who choose to continue their education in the University system.
Personal Awareness:
Self-awareness is an essential characteristic of effective counsellors. Although not meant to be a substitute for professional counselling, each course provides students the opportunity to gain valuable personal insights through skill development exercises, small group discussions, and conferencing with instructors.
Distance Education:
Students may complete all or part of their course work through distance learning. Distance Education students build counselling skills in the context of a supervised, volunteer placement setting with community or private agencies. This allows each student to develop a portfolio of job skills with practical relevance for future employers.
Graduation Requirements:
(on-campus and distance education)
In order to graduate, students must:
- Complete 15 required courses plus one elective course from area of professional interest.
- Pass each course with a minimum of 65%.
- Compile a portfolio of counselling skills.
- Demonstrate competency in all core concepts by passing a comprehensive proficiency exam.
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