COURSE CURRICULUM

In the first year, all health sciences students begin with a common set of courses in the first semester, which provide a broad and comprehensive understanding of general healthcare. This foundation prepares students for more specialized study. In the second semester, students focus on the history and theory of counselling, with particular attention to relational counselling and kaupapa Māori approaches. They also begin developing essential counselling skills, including understanding the dynamics of the client-counsellor relationship. This introductory phase sets the groundwork for practical and culturally informed counselling practice. In the second year, students deepen their knowledge of counselling through advanced coursework and begin their first practical counselling placement. This hands-on experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under supervision. The courses in this year also cover important topics such as group counselling, mental health, and psychopathology, giving students a well-rounded understanding of different counselling contexts and client needs. In the third year, students continue their counselling placement, gaining more practical experience and refining their skills. They complete their remaining counselling courses and have the opportunity to take optional courses to broaden their knowledge. The curriculum also includes studies in health law and policy, providing students with an understanding of the legal and regulatory environment surrounding counselling practice. Throughout the program, students build both theoretical and practical expertise, preparing them to support clients effectively and ethically. By combining academic learning with real-world experience and cultural awareness, the program equips graduates to work competently as counsellors, ready to address diverse client needs and contribute meaningfully to mental health and wellbeing in their communities.