Intakes: JAN & FEB | APR & MAY | AUG & SEP

Intakes: JAN & FEB | APR & MAY | AUG & SEP

Diploma in Guidance & Counseling

Overview

The Diploma in Guidance & Counseling program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to work as professional counselors or guidance practitioners. With a focus on personal, social, and academic development, this program provides students with a solid theoretical foundation and practical training in the field of counseling.

Program Highlights

Program Objectives: Equip students with theoretical foundation and practical skills to support personal, social, and academic development, addressing psychological and emotional needs.

Curriculum: Covers counseling and psychology topics like theories, human development, career counseling, ethics, multicultural counseling, and research methods.

Practical Training: Includes supervised fieldwork, internships in counseling centers, schools, or community organizations for hands-on experience and skill development.

Career Opportunities: Graduates can work as school counselors, in community centers, mental health facilities, or private practices, serving individuals, couples, or families. Advanced degrees are an option.

Professional Development: Counseling requires ongoing learning. The diploma is the first step, followed by continuing education and supervision for maintaining credentials and staying current in the field.

Admission Requirements

Entry Qualification: ‘A’ Level and above or the equivalent qualifications

Duration: 2 years

Programme Structure

YEAR 1 QUARTER 1

GCD110 – Communication Skills (3CU):

This course focuses on developing effective communication skills for counseling professionals. Students will learn various verbal and non-verbal communication techniques, active listening skills, empathy, and feedback mechanisms. They will also explore cultural and contextual factors that influence communication. The course aims to enhance students’ ability to establish rapport, build trust, and convey information in a clear and supportive manner within counseling relationships.

GCD112 – Childhood and Adolescent Problems (3CU):

This course delves into the study of common problems and issues faced by children and adolescents. Students will explore the psychological, social, and emotional challenges experienced by young individuals, such as behavioral disorders, learning difficulties, and emotional disturbances. They will learn about assessment tools, intervention strategies, and prevention approaches for addressing these problems within counseling practice. The course aims to equip students with knowledge and skills to support children and adolescents effectively.

GCD113 – Issues in Counselling (3CUs):

This course examines current and emerging issues in the field of counseling. Students will explore topics such as multicultural counseling, counseling ethics, professional boundaries, and legal considerations. They will also discuss contemporary issues like trauma-informed care, substance abuse counseling, and technology’s impact on counseling. The course aims to foster critical thinking and ethical awareness among students, preparing them to navigate complex issues they may encounter in their counseling careers.

GCD114 – Life Skills (3CU):

This course focuses on promoting essential life skills that contribute to personal and social well-being. Students will learn about topics such as stress management, problem-solving, decision-making, time management, and emotional intelligence. They will explore techniques and strategies to enhance these skills in counseling settings. The course aims to equip students with practical tools they can utilize to support clients in developing crucial life skills for personal growth and resilience.

GCD115 – Pastoral and Spiritual Counselling (4CU):

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of pastoral and spiritual counseling. Students will explore the role of spirituality in the counseling process and how it intersects with clients’ beliefs, values, and experiences. They will study various approaches to integrating spirituality into counseling, including existential, religious, and mindfulness-based approaches. The course aims to develop students’ understanding of the spiritual dimension in counseling and their ability to provide holistic support to individuals seeking guidance in this domain.

 


YEAR 1 QUARTER 2

CSD113 – Computer Applications (3CU):

This course focuses on introducing students to various computer applications relevant to the field of guidance and counseling. Students will learn practical skills in using software programs such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentation tools, and databases. The course aims to enhance students’ technological literacy and equip them with essential computer skills that can be applied in their counseling practice.

GCD121 – Counselling Theories (4CU):

In this course, students will explore different theoretical approaches and models of counseling. They will study various counseling theories, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and systemic perspectives. The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation in understanding the theoretical underpinnings of counseling, helping them develop a comprehensive understanding of different therapeutic approaches and their application in counseling practice.

GCD122 – Psychometric Assessment (3CU):

This course focuses on the theory and practice of psychometric assessment in counseling. Students will learn about different types of assessment tools, such as personality tests, intelligence tests, and career interest inventories. They will gain knowledge and skills in administering, scoring, and interpreting assessment instruments. The course aims to equip students with the ability to effectively use psychometric assessments as part of the counseling process, aiding in understanding clients’ strengths, needs, and challenges.

GCD123 – Family and Group Counselling (4CU):

This course delves into the theory and practice of family and group counseling. Students will learn about the dynamics and processes involved in facilitating counseling sessions with families and groups. They will study various approaches to family and group therapy, explore techniques for fostering effective communication, conflict resolution, and cohesion within these settings. The course aims to develop students’ skills in conducting family and group counseling, enabling them to work effectively with multiple clients simultaneously.

GCD124 – Family and Children’s Rights (3CU):

This course focuses on understanding the legal and ethical issues related to family and children’s rights. Students will explore relevant laws, policies, and conventions concerning child protection, custody, divorce, and other family-related matters. They will gain insights into the rights of children and families within the legal framework. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and understanding necessary to navigate legal and ethical considerations in their counseling practice, ensuring they provide appropriate and ethical support to families and children.

 


YEAR 1 QUARTER 3

GCD131 – Organization Management Theories (3CU):

This course introduces students to various theories and concepts related to organizational management. Students will learn about different organizational structures, leadership styles, decision-making processes, and strategic planning. The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation in understanding how organizations function and develop skills in managing resources, people, and processes within counseling settings.

GCD132 – Counselling Skills (4CU):

This course focuses on developing essential counseling skills necessary for effective client engagement and therapeutic relationships. Students will learn and practice active listening, empathy, rapport building, questioning techniques, and other core counseling skills. They will also explore ethical considerations and self-awareness in the counseling process. The course aims to equip students with practical skills and competencies needed to facilitate positive change and support clients in their counseling journey.

GCD133 – Developmental Psychology (3CU):

This course explores the theories and principles of developmental psychology across the lifespan. Students will study the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of human development from infancy to old age. They will gain insights into various developmental theories and their application in understanding human behavior and counseling interventions. The course aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of human development, enabling them to tailor counseling approaches to different life stages.

GCD134 – Gender and Reproductive Health (3CU):

This course focuses on the intersection of gender, sexuality, and reproductive health within counseling contexts. Students will examine the social, cultural, and psychological factors that influence gender identity, sexual orientation, and reproductive health issues. They will explore the challenges faced by individuals and communities and learn strategies for promoting gender equality and reproductive health awareness in counseling practice. The course aims to develop students’ sensitivity to gender-related issues and equip them with knowledge and skills to address these topics in counseling sessions.

GCD135 – Programme Development and Project Design (3CU):

This course provides students with knowledge and skills in designing and implementing counseling programs and projects. Students will learn about needs assessment, goal setting, program planning, monitoring, and evaluation. They will also explore strategies for collaboration, community engagement, and funding opportunities in the context of program development. The course aims to equip students with the ability to design and manage counseling initiatives effectively, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to diverse populations.

 


YEAR 2 QUARTER 1

GCD211 – Differential, Social and Community Psychology (3CU):

This course explores the principles and theories of differential, social, and community psychology within the context of counseling. Students will study individual differences, social influence, group dynamics, and community factors that impact human behavior and mental health. They will gain insights into the role of these psychological concepts in understanding and addressing client needs within counseling practice. The course aims to equip students with a deeper understanding of the psychological factors that influence individuals and communities, enhancing their counseling skills and interventions.

GCD212 – Career and Occupation Counselling (3CU):

This course focuses on the theory and practice of career and occupation counseling. Students will learn about career development theories, vocational assessment tools, and strategies for supporting individuals in making informed career choices. They will explore topics such as job market trends, career transitions, and work-life balance. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to guide clients in exploring career options, setting goals, and navigating the complexities of the modern workplace.

GCD213 – Trauma Counselling (3CU):

This course delves into the study of trauma and its impact on individuals’ mental health and well-being. Students will explore various trauma theories, assessment techniques, and evidence-based interventions for working with trauma survivors. They will learn about trauma-informed care, resilience-building strategies, and ethical considerations in trauma counseling. The course aims to prepare students to provide sensitive and effective counseling support to individuals who have experienced trauma, fostering healing and growth.

REM210 – Research Methods (3CU):

This course provides students with a foundational understanding of research methods and their application in the field of counseling. Students will learn about research design, data collection methods, data analysis, and ethical considerations in conducting research. They will develop skills in critically evaluating research literature and gain practical experience in designing and conducting research projects relevant to counseling. The course aims to equip students with the ability to apply research principles and utilize evidence-based practices in their counseling work.

 


YEAR 2 QUARTER 2

GCD221 – Issues in HIV/AIDS Counselling (5CU):

This course focuses on exploring the specific issues and challenges related to HIV/AIDS counseling. Students will learn about the biological and psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS, including transmission, prevention, stigma, and the impact of the disease on individuals and communities. They will gain knowledge and skills in providing counseling support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS, their families, and affected populations. The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the unique considerations and interventions involved in HIV/AIDS counseling.

GCD223 – Counselling Workshop (3CU):

This course provides students with a hands-on learning experience in a workshop setting. Students will have the opportunity to apply their counseling knowledge and skills in practical scenarios and simulated counseling sessions. They will receive feedback and guidance from instructors and peers, enhancing their counseling competencies and self-awareness. The workshop may cover various counseling approaches, techniques, and ethical considerations, allowing students to refine their counseling practice in a supportive and interactive environment.

 


YEAR 2 QUARTER 3

GCD211 – Differential, Social and Community Psychology (3CU):

This course explores the principles and theories of differential, social, and community psychology within the context of counseling. Students will study individual differences, social influence, group dynamics, and community factors that impact human behavior and mental health. They will gain insights into the role of these psychological concepts in understanding and addressing client needs within counseling practice. The course aims to equip students with a deeper understanding of the psychological factors that influence individuals and communities, enhancing their counseling skills and interventions.

GCD221 – Issues in HIV/AIDS Counselling (3CU):

This course focuses on exploring the specific issues and challenges related to HIV/AIDS counseling. Students will learn about the biological and psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS, including transmission, prevention, stigma, and the impact of the disease on individuals and communities. They will gain knowledge and skills in providing counseling support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS, their families, and affected populations. The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the unique considerations and interventions involved in HIV/AIDS counseling.

GCD223 – Counselling Workshop (5CU):

This course provides students with a hands-on learning experience in a workshop setting. Students will have the opportunity to apply their counseling knowledge and skills in practical scenarios and simulated counseling sessions. They will receive feedback and guidance from instructors and peers, enhancing their counseling competencies and self-awareness. The workshop may cover various counseling approaches, techniques, and ethical considerations, allowing students to refine their counseling practice in a supportive and interactive environment.

GCD231 – Counselling Practicum II (5 CU):

This course offers students the opportunity to engage in supervised counseling practice in a real-world setting. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, students will apply their counseling knowledge and skills in working with actual clients. They will have the chance to develop and implement counseling interventions, gain practical experience in conducting assessments and providing ongoing support. The practicum aims to further develop students’ counseling competencies, professionalism, and ethical decision-making abilities.

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Important Notice!

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