Higher Certificate Overview

Higher Certificate in Counselling and Communication Skills

The Higher Certificate programme is a 1-year NQF5 entry level qualification that provides the opportunity to develop foundational knowledge and skills in the counselling and communications field.

The programme provides the student with an excellent foundation in Psychology as a human science, its social context and the application of counselling and communication methodologies and skills.

This programme addresses the current growing and acknowledged need for training at a Higher Education level for a wide range of potential candidates: from school-leavers seeking entrance to higher education, to lay counsellors seeking knowledge and skills, as well as for professionals (e.g. HR practitioners), seeking an understanding into aspects of human behaviour, communications and mental health.

Those completing the programme will graduate with a 120-credit NQF5 Higher Certificate in Counselling and Communication Skills. This qualification is accredited with the CHE. Future paths to study include the Diploma in Counselling and Communication with a view to developing vocational skills in Counselling, Coaching, or Facilitation.

Admission Requirements

• A National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in English, or
• A Senior Certificate with higher and/ or standard grade subjects or an equivalent school leaving certificate, or
• 24 years or older, with no school qualification, and at least three (3) years’ work experience and proven ability relating to the proposed programme.

Programme Structure

• 1 year programme (full-time), 2-years (part-time)
• Pre-commencement online tutorial on Research and Study Skills
• 10 modules
• Full-time study = 3 – 4 modules per term
• Part-time study = 2 modules per term
• 3 terms per year