Bachelor of Counselling (Degree)

Thinking of becoming a counsellor?

Become a professional counsellor with the Bachelor of Counselling at Vision College.

This counselling degree programme is designed to train ethical, professional counsellors, skilled and knowledgeable in counselling practice. Our graduates are well-developed in self-awareness and strongly competent in engaging in and maintaining a therapeutic relationship and process with clients.

The programme is underpinned by three core values and philosophical themes of learning which are embedded throughout all papers: Self-awareness; Cultural sensitivity and Christian worldview.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Counselling may become provisional members of New Zealand Christian Counsellors Association (NZCCA) and New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC).

About Vision College

Vision College offers programmes in counselling because we believe that God, through his Son Jesus Christ, loves every person and desires to bring them to maturity and wholeness, and to reach their full potential.

The School of Counselling commenced in 1994 offering the first Christian-based Counselling Diploma in New Zealand. Hundreds of graduates now outwork their professional qualification in a wide range of people-helping industries including professional counselling practice, Government agencies and churches.

Vision College is part of ATC New Zealand (est. 1984), now one of the largest private tertiary institutions in New Zealand.

Course Snapshot

Semester Dates for 2012

Fees Guideline for 2012

Domestic Students
Year 1: $5,920  Course related costs - Year 1
Year 2: $5,920  Course related costs - Year 2
Year 3: $5,920  Course related costs - Year 3

International Students 
$15,995 approx per year.
Use the downloads above for Course Related Costs.

Course Outline

Explore the papers that make up years one, two and three of the Bachelor of Counselling. 

Year 1 Papers
Year 2 Papers
Year 3 Papers

What does the qualification level mean?
How does the block course option work?
Can I get a student loan?

Entry Requirements

All applicants must:

• Be at least 24 years of age when the programme begins.
• Complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information. (International students must provide a Police check from their home country)
• Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via referee reports.
• Provide evidence of ability to succeed at undergraduate study level. The application process requires applicants to submit two essays which will be evaluated for literacy and comprehension levels as well as the ability to clearly articulate original thought.
• Attend an interactive group selection day and an individual interview as part of the application process.
• Provide evidence of computer literacy. This will be evaluated during the selection process.
• Be free from addictions, debilitating illness, or personal problems that might impair full participation in the programme. Applicants may be required to provide verification at their own cost. A period of two years recovery or clearance is a guide considered a minimum for those with past difficulties in these areas.

English Language

If English is not the applicant’s first language they will be required to provide evidence of English language skill. An IELTS 7.0 Academic (with no individual band score lower than 6.5), or equivalent will be required. Credits in English-rich subjects from New Zealand educational institutions are also acceptable. If you have no evidence of your English language skills, contact us for an assessment.

Discretionary Admission

In exceptional cases, applicants who do not meet the general admission requirements, including age, may be considered for discretionary admission.

Graduate Opportunities

• Counselling Agency
• School Counsellor 

How do I Enrol?