Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Counselling and Interpersonal Skills

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BPSYC

Study as

Full-time

Indicative fees

$44,500

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115748M

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution with an overall Grade Point Average of 4.5 or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	80
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.90
China – Gaokao	70%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	18
India – CBSE and CISCE	80
India – State Board Examinations	90
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.00
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	19
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	3.00
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	9
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	10
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.30

Why Bachelor of Psychology?

Great counsellors are a light in the dark. They help people navigate some of life’s most challenging experiences – the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, recovery from trauma or other significant life transitions.

In a workplace setting, counsellors can help with mediation, conflict resolution or vocational assessments.

Our Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Counselling and Interpersonal Skills gives you the best of both worlds. With a unique blend of core psychology and specialist counselling courses, you’ll be well prepared for a career in counselling-related fields. Or, with further study, you could become a registered counsellor or psychologist.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Counselling and Interpersonal Skills provides you with a foundational understanding of the broad ideas, principles, theories, and methods essential to psychology.

The counselling and interpersonal skills major helps you zoom in further, developing the knowledge, skills and qualities necessary to provide tailored support to people and communities.

You’ll study a mix of courses covering developmental psychology, counselling and interpersonal skills, psychological theory, research methods and more. Practical learning is a key focus of this degree. Through hands-on community service activities and placements, you’ll gain valuable practical experience to help you prepare for the workforce.

Being able to connect with and support people navigating a range of circumstances are key skills for a range of people-focused sectors including education, human resources, family services, crisis intervention, career coaching or community development organisations.

For those interested in becoming a registered psychologist, further study is required through the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).

Key features

Master psychology and counselling concepts, theories, principles and methods.
Explore counselling skills, interpersonal communication and community engagement with specialised courses.
Apply your understanding of human behaviour in variety of real-world contexts.
Gain practical experience in diverse community settings through professional placements.
Continue your journey towards professional registration through our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of Psychology covers core psychology theories, principles, methods and skills. The counselling and interpersonal skills major focuses on developing the analytical, communication and interpersonal skills needed to work with individuals, groups, and communities.

You’ll study courses in health and developmental psychology, helping you understand how people grow and stay healthy across their lifespan. Supporting this, you’ll also learn about cognition and language, social psychology, counselling, and communicating in social work and human services settings.

Throughout your studies, you'll broaden your cultural awareness and interpersonal abilities while developing your expertise in critical and analytical thinking, data management and research – skills that employers look for and value.

In your final year, you’ll undertake an industry placement in a community organisation where you’ll gain practical experience alongside important industry connections.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

66 units for all Core courses, and
Either:
60 to 66 units for one Major from Major, or
12 units for all Discipline courses, and
0 to 12 units from Work integrated learning, and
0 to 66 units for Electives

Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology	Course code PSYC1012	Units 6
Course name Psychology 1A	Course code PSYC1013	Units 6
Course name Personal and Professional Development	Course code PSYC1016	Units 6
Course name Psychology 1B	Course code PSYC1015	Units 6
Course name Introductory Research Methods	Course code PSYC2012	Units 6
Course name Developmental Psychology	Course code PSYC3016	Units 6
Course name Cognitive Psychology	Course code PSYC3012	Units 6
Course name Social and Community Psychology	Course code PSYC2013	Units 6
Course name Biological and Learning Psychology	Course code PSYC2014	Units 6
Course name Personality Psychology	Course code PSYC3021	Units 6
Course name Clinical and Abnormal Psychology	Course code PSYC3013	Units 6

Complete 60 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Counselling Foundations	Course code PSYC1005	Units 6
Course name Communication Skills in Social Work and Human Services	Course code SOWK1001	Units 6
Course name Counselling Skills	Course code PSYC2005	Units 6
Course name Counselling Interventions	Course code SOWK2000	Units 6
Course name Working with Community	Course code SOWK3001	Units 6
Course name Group Work	Course code PSYC1009	Units 6
Course name Psychology Applications	Course code PSYC2016	Units 6
Course name Career Development	Course code PSYC2017	Units 6
Course name Cognitive Psychology	Course code PSYC3012	Units 6
Course name Developmental Psychology	Course code PSYC3016	Units 6

Complete 0 to 12 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Psychology Placement	Course code PSYC3901	Units 12

Complete 0 to 66 units comprising:

0 to 48 units from Psychology Closed Electives, and
0 to 18 units from Free Electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Advanced Research Methods	Course code PSYC3014	Units 6
Course name Health Psychology	Course code PSYC3017	Units 6
Course name Cognitive Neuroscience	Course code PSYC3018	Units 6
Course name Conservation Psychology	Course code PSYC3019	Units 6
Course name Psychophysiology of Sleep	Course code PSYC3024	Units 6
Course name Exploring the History and Foundations of Psychology	Course code PSYC3026	Units 6
Course name Work and Organisational Psychology	Course code PSYC3015	Units 6
Course name Health, Exercise and Sport Psychology	Course code HLTH3005	Units 6
Course name Language, Context and Social Behaviour	Course code PSYC3020	Units 6
Course name Psychology Research Experience	Course code PSYC3023	Units 6

Career outcomes

Counsellors and psychologists play a pivotal role in enhancing people’s mental health, wellbeing, and overall functioning. Individuals with the ability to connect with people on a deeper level to effect positive change are highly sought after by a range of people-focused organisations and teams.

You could provide professional development support to early-career staff. Maybe you’ll work with cities or neighbourhoods to develop social programs for adults living with learning difficulties. Or perhaps you’ll support reunification programs for children and families affected by state intervention.

With its focus on fit-for-purpose counselling strategies, our Bachelor of Psychology majoring in Counselling and Interpersonal Skills provides an exceptional foundation for a career in a range of diverse settings, including:

Education
Business and human resources
Government and non-profit organisations
Family services
Crisis intervention services
Private coaching or consulting.

For those interested in becoming a registered counsellor or psychologist, further study is required. Continue the journey with our Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) majoring in Counselling and Interpersonal Skills before completing a master’s degree in counselling or psychology.

Industry trends

It’s estimated that 50% of the global population will develop at least one mental health disorder in their lifetime (McGrath et al, 2023). In Australia, one in every three psychologists have closed their books and are unable to take on new clients. With demand now outstripping supply, the need for qualified mental health professionals has never been greater (Australian Psychological Society, 2022).

With a qualification in counselling and psychology from Adelaide University, you’ll be prepared to join this growing and vital sector and make a real difference to people’s mental health.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing at the institution in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: