Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations with applied skill development and supervised clinical practice. You study counselling theories and approaches (for example psychodynamic, cognitive‑behavioural, humanistic and integrative frameworks), counselling skills and interventions, ethics and professional practice, multicultural and bicultural counselling, and working with diverse client groups across the lifespan.

Research methods and evidence‑informed practice are core components, emphasising assessment, case formulation, outcome measurement and reflective practice. The diploma includes a substantial clinical placement element with supervised client contact, structured clinical supervision and practicum assessments to develop competence in assessment, intervention planning and professional boundaries.

• Counselling theory and models
• Advanced counselling skills and practice
• Ethics, legal and professional issues in counselling
• Assessment, case formulation and outcome evaluation
• Working with diversity, bicultural practice and cultural safety
• Research methods and evidence‑based practice
• Supervised clinical practicum / placement

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent tertiary qualification. Prior study in psychology, health, social work or related human services is advantageous; applicants without a psychology background may be required to complete specified prerequisite courses or demonstrate relevant professional experience.

Selection typically involves an application form, academic transcripts and a statement of suitability. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview or a suitability assessment to consider interpersonal attributes and readiness for clinical work. Because the programme includes placements, students must meet professional suitability checks, which can include health screening, immunisation requirements and background checks as mandated by placement providers. International applicants must meet AUT's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates gain the practical skills and supervised experience needed for roles in community agencies, schools, NGOs, primary care settings and private practice under supervision. Typical job titles include counsellor, youth worker with a counselling focus, bereavement or family support worker, and wellbeing practitioner in educational or community organisations.

The diploma also provides a pathway into further postgraduate study in counselling, psychotherapy or psychological practice. It is important to note that registration as a psychologist in New Zealand requires further accredited postgraduate qualifications; the Graduate Diploma supports professional development towards counsellor registration with relevant professional bodies when combined with required post‑qualification supervised hours and membership criteria.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT offers an applied, practice‑oriented curriculum delivered by staff with clinical, research and community experience in counselling and mental health. The university has established relationships with a wide range of placement providers across Auckland and beyond, giving students diverse supervised practice opportunities.

Students benefit from AUT's facilities for health and wellbeing teaching, access to multidisciplinary learning environments, and a focus on bicultural competence and culturally safe practice relevant to Aotearoa New Zealand. The programme emphasises reflective practice, professional ethics and preparing graduates to meet the needs of diverse communities.