Bachelor of Psychology & Counselling – Shape Your Future in Mental Health

The Bachelor of Psychology and Counselling at Cairnmillar Institute is a 3-year, TEQSA-accredited double-major degree uniquely focused on mental health. Designed to blend scientific inquiry with therapeutic practice, this degree equips graduates to make a real-world impacteither as counsellors or by advancing toward further qualification as psychologists.

Immersive, Focused Curriculum

Unlike broader psychology programs, Cairnmillars offering is purpose-built for mental health professionals. In your first year, you'll lay a solid foundation exploring foundational psychological sciencecovering cognition, behaviour, lifespan development, and research methodsalongside introductory counselling models such as person-centred and ethical frameworks.
Subsequent years deepen your knowledge in social psychology, psychopathology, neurosciences, cognitive behavioural therapy, trauma-informed practice, and organisational behaviour. The capstone includes placement units where you'll accumulate at least 40 hours of direct client experience under supervisioncrucial real-world training that sets Cairnmillar apart.

Dual Pathway to Counselling & Psychology

Upon graduating, youll be fully qualified to seek work as a counsellor across community services, education, healthcare, human resources, policy, and advocacy. The program also serves as a seamless stepping-stone into postgraduate psychology: a 70% average in psychology-major units grants guaranteed entry to Cairnmillars Honours program (BPsych(Hons)), which is APAC-accreditedmoving you closer to eligibility for general psychology registration.
Meanwhile, when Cairnmillar secures PACFA accreditation, graduates may also pursue registration as professional counsellors via pathways like PACFA or ACAa strong endorsement of the course's credentials.

Practitioner-Led Instruction & Supportive Community

Teaching is delivered by experienced clinician-researchers, blending academic rigour with real-world insights. Small class sizes foster a collaborative, supportive environment. Cairnmillar prioritises student well-being and success through dedicated academic support, peer mentoring, professional development workshops, and open-door access to faculty. Their campus at Hawthorn East, Melbourne, offers modern facilities and community clinics.

Admissions & Supportive Entry Paths

Domestic students can apply via VTAC, needing a minimum ATAR of 60; mature-aged applicants may be considered based on other educational or life experiences. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall with a 6.0 minimum in each band). Cairnmillar also facilitates Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) based on eligible qualificationslike diplomas in Aboriginal Studies, counselling, health, or community servicespotentially granting credit toward the degree.

Investment & Returns

Estimated tuition for domestic students is AUD?13,340 per year, with total fees around AUD?40,020. International students pay AUD?27,942 annually (AUD?83,825 in total). FEE?HELP is available to eligible domestic students. Graduates often pursue careers in community welfare, mental health services, public policy, private counselling practice, research, or medialeveraging both psychological and counselling competencies.

In Summary

Cairnmillars Bachelor of Psychology & Counselling offers an innovative, dual-focused undergraduate pathway. With rigorous academic foundations, intensive practical placements, accredited progression options, and practitioner-led mentorship, it stands out as a launchpad into diverse and purpose-driven careers in mental health.