The University of Divinity is an ecumenical university which welcomes all people. It is committed to evidence-based, best practice, counselling education. The university also recognises that engagement with relevant religious and spiritual ideas enhances counselling practice. What the Bachelor of Counselling prizes is:
- That all people are made in the image of God.
- A narrative which highlights redemptive possibilities.
- Showing hospitality and generosity to all.
- The hope of the Christian life.
Our teachers are, by-and-large, mature Christians who are adept at facilitating deep conversations which integrate clinical best practice, your personal context, and questions of faith.
At the completion of the degree, our students will have the capacity – within their scope of practice – to consider clients from a biological, psychological, sociological and spiritual perspective.
Why study Counselling with the University of Divinity?
#1 in Australia for student experience
The University of Divinity is nationally recognised as having the most positive student experience of any university in Australia.
Read more about our student experience results
Testimonials
“True service begins with presence and deep listening. … I discovered the quiet power of simply being with someone in their truth. This experience deepened my understanding of counselling and ministry as a sacred responsibility—grounded in empathy, not assumption, and I highly recommend the University of Divinity for anyone seeking a meaningful and transformative journey.” Sarah (Ministry student 2025)“
Sarah (Ministry student 2025)
“After attending other universities I would say that it is the intimate style of education that makes the counselling degree at the University of Divinity unique. Smaller class sizes and access to support makes it easy to navigate the course. The lecturers are very passionate which is reflected in the positivity of the students. I really wouldn’t study anywhere else.”
Sue (2nd year student 2024)
“Each class leaves me inspired and eager to learn more. The support and guidance from my professors/lectures and peers has been invaluable. The collaborative learning environment fosters a sense of community and encourages meaningful exchanges of ideas and perspectives. Overall, I cannot emphasise enough how grateful I am for the opportunity to pursue this degree.”
Christina (2nd year student 2024)
“Thank you for having the best teachers to teach us. … The lecturers you chose were such beautiful human beings. Such learned people who taught with so much compassion, patience and understanding it made me feel safe to ask questions… I learned so much from them and they made us feel empowered.”
Nancy (1st year student 2023)
“I took the leap of faith to start my Counselling journey with the University of Divinity. My journey has been a bit like a river that ebbs and flows, and has been rocky along the way, but my teachers have always shown me the way forward. I have never regretted my choice to study with the University of Divinity!”
Fiona (1st year student 2023)
Commonwealth Supported Places
Commonwealth Supported Places may be available for some Bachelor of Counselling students. Places are allocated on an equity basis to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds. A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back.
For the purposes of Equity Places, disadvantaged groups include:
- students from low SES backgrounds
- students from inner regional, outer regional, remote and very remote areas
- students who are first in family to study at university
- First Nations students
- students with a disability
The 2027 unit tuition fee for students who are eligible for a commonwealth-supported place is AUD$2,253 per unit.
Modes of learning
All Counselling units use blended learning to enable flexibility around work/life commitments. Blended learning means a mix of online and face-to-face components.
Learning materials will be available through online modules for studnets to access at any time 24/7 during the unit.
Seminars are scheduled outside normal working hours to permit flexibility.
Intensives (2-day compulsory) have an experiential focus and are a great way to meet your fellow classmates in person. Note that all intensives are held in Melbourne.
A unique approach to counselling training
University of Divinity Box Hill Campus
At the University of Divinity we seek to attract a diverse range of students who can gift insights from their ‘lived experience’ to their classmates and to their clients later on. In fact, a ‘wounded healer’ model of training is often the best as students come with empathy and knowledge that can’t be learnt from textbooks.
Our curriculum is designed to help you find ‘the good life’ and so, in turn, help your future clients to do the same. We therefore don’t just focus on counselling skills but also on virtues such as hope, courage, and compassion. We want you to engage the human condition in all its messiness and beauty.
We also want to meet the challenges of the mid-21st century. You will also learn about artificial intelligence in mental health and basic business skills amongst other interesting topics. As a graduate, you’ll be well prepared for the workplace and for future client needs.
Highly experienced teachers
Our teachers and associates have significant crossover experience between professional practice and academia. Under their guidance, you will learn critical thinking, evidence-based practice and develop empathy allowing you to work to effectively with a range of clients. The team of teachers and associates is led by Dr Tom Edwards.
Industry accreditation and memberships
The Bachelor of Counselling is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association. The Australian Counselling Association (ACA) is the largest professional association for registered counsellors, psychotherapists and students in the Australia. It is dedicated to ensuring accreditation, professional development and growth, ethical conduct, and high standards in education and practice.
The Bachelor of Counselling is endorsed by the Christian Counsellors Association of Australia. The Christian Counsellors Association of Australia (CCAA) is the nation’s key professional body for counsellors who work at the intersection of faith and professional practice.
The University of Divinity is a member of the National Heads of Counselling and Psychotherapy Education network. The network represents Higher Education providers throughout Australia who deliver counselling training.
Course overview
Host College
Counselling at the UD is hosted and delivered by Australian Lutheran College.
Australian Lutheran College is a diverse learning community, committed to learning for life, providing excellence in theological education and training that prepares tomorrow’s leaders in church and community.
Delivery information
You can visit the ALC website for current delivery information including:
- Application dates throughout the year and how to book an appointment with a course advisor.
- Specific information about the delivery of the course including locations, learning modes, calendars and timetables.
- A guide on the progression of units throughout your course.
- Facilities and support available to you as a student.
Contact
For more information and course advice (prospective and current students):
Australian Lutheran College
Email: enquiries@alc.edu.au
Phone: (08) 7120 8200
Website: https://alc.edu.au/study/counselling-programs/
Already curious?
Send us a message using this form to register your interest in the course, ask a question, or receive course advice.
How to apply
If you have questions about the course, please use the enquiry form on this webpage.
Once you’re ready to apply, fill out the application form. You’ll be contacted to arrange a time for an interview with Dr Tom Edwards. The purpose of the interview is to ensure that this course is right for you.
Admission Form for Counselling
Email your application form to the team at Australian Lutheran College, at: enquiries@alc.edu.au
