PROGRAM 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 (day or evening classes), 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.