Human Services (Counselling)

The Bachelor of Human Services (Counselling) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in counselling and human services. This degree combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, equipping graduates to support individuals and communities facing diverse challenges. Throughout the program, students explore core topics such as psychology, social work, community development, mental health, and ethical practice, gaining a well-rounded understanding of human behaviour and social systems. The curriculum emphasizes the development of effective communication skills, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making, all essential qualities for aspiring counsellors. Students also participate in hands-on experiential learning through practical placements, which provide real-world experience and foster confidence in their counselling abilities. The program is structured to develop critical thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and reflective practice, enabling graduates to adapt to various professional settings and client needs. Upon completing this degree, graduates are well-prepared to work in a variety of roles within community health services, educational institutions, mental health clinics, and other support organizations. Furthermore, the Bachelor of Human Services (Counselling) offers pathways to further study or postgraduate qualifications for those wishing to specialize or advance their careers. The University of Southern Queensland’s industry-connected approach ensures that students are kept up-to-date with the latest practices and standards in human services. With a strong focus on ethical practice, social justice, and client-centered care, this program aims to produce competent, compassionate, and culturally sensitive professionals dedicated to making a positive impact on individuals’ lives and their communities.

Program structure

COMBINATION 1 

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses8

plus 8 unit major8

plus 1 x second 8-unit major8

or 8 unit minors

or 1 x 4-unit minor plus 4 x electives 

Total24

COMBINATION 2 

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses8

or 12 unit major12

plus 4-unit minor4

or 4 x electives

Total24

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

CMS1000Communication and Scholarship1

CDS1000Introduction to Community Welfare and Development

PSY1010Foundation Psychology A

CDS1001Human Relations and Communications

EDC2200Indigenous Perspectives

CDS2001Sustainability Concepts and Issues

CDS2000Ethical Issues and Human Rights in the Human Services2

CDS2002Field Placement A

Counselling Major: 

CDS1002Counselling Skills

CDS3000Field Placement B 

CDS3001Assessment and Report Writing in Counselling

CDS3002Counselling Theory and Practice

CDS3004Counselling Theory and Practice 2

CDS3005Counselling Theory and Practice 3

PSY1020Foundation Psychology B

PSY2020Motivation and Emotion

PSY3030Abnormal Psychology

PSY3050Counselling Psychology

EDC1100Lifespan Development and Learning

 OR

PSY2030Developmental Psychology

Footnotes

1 Students who have completed CMS1009 Communication in Academic and Professional Contexts cannot enrol in CMS1000. 

2 Students cannot study both CDS2000 and HMT2000 within the one degree.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 15/67

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

The Bachelor of Human Services (Counselling) at the University of Southern Queensland offers students multiple options for funding their studies. Domestic students can access various government assistance programs, such as the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which substantially reduce tuition fees, making higher education more affordable. Additionally, students may be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan, allowing them to defer their tuition fees and repay them through the Australian tax system once their income exceeds a certain threshold. For those who qualify, scholarships are available based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of study. These scholarships can cover partial or full fees and sometimes provide additional support such as stipends or resources.

International students, on the other hand, are required to pay full tuition fees, which vary depending on the course duration and mode of study. The university offers defined payment plans that allow students to spread the costs over the semester or year. International students may also explore scholarships designed to promote diversity and academic excellence, which can significantly offset tuition expenses.

Apart from government loans and scholarships, students often seek external funding, including university-specific bursaries, private sponsorships, and educational loans from financial institutions. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive counselling and assistance to help students identify suitable funding sources and manage their financial planning effectively.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other costs associated with their studies, such as textbooks, study materials, and living expenses. The university provides estimated costings for these additional needs to help students prepare a realistic budget. International students are advised to factor in visa-related costs and health insurance, which are mandatory for studying in Australia.

Overall, the University of Southern Queensland aims to support students financially through a combination of government programs, scholarships, payment plans, and guidance services, ensuring access to quality education in Human Services (Counselling) for a diverse range of students.

The Bachelor of Human Services (Counselling) at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare students for a meaningful career helping individuals, families, and communities. The program emphasizes the development of practical counselling skills, theoretical knowledge, and ethical practices necessary for effective client support. Students will engage with a comprehensive curriculum that covers areas such as psychology, social work, mental health, communication, and diversity. The program aims to equip graduates with the ability to assess client needs, develop intervention strategies, and implement support plans within various human service settings. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to apply their learning through real-world placements, gaining valuable hands-on experience under supervision. The curriculum also fosters critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and ethical awareness, ensuring graduates are prepared to address complex human issues in a responsible and compassionate manner. The course structure typically involves coursework combined with practical placements, which are integral to developing professional competence. The program may also include topics on ethics, counselling techniques, crisis intervention, and client confidentiality to ensure students meet professional standards. Upon completion, graduates can pursue employment in areas such as community services, mental health organisations, addiction services, youth work, and aged care facilities. The program aligns with industry requirements and offers pathways to further studies or professional registration. As a university committed to accessible education, USQ offers flexible learning options, including part-time and online study modes, enabling students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. The Bachelor of Human Services (Counselling) at USQ is ideal for individuals passionate about making a difference in people’s lives and seeking a rewarding career in the human services sector.