Key facts
UNE unit code: HSCS474
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Loss and grief are universal experiences. This unit provides you with a framework to understand the complexities of loss, grief and mourning and the impacts they have on people’s lives.
By exploring different conceptual models, you will build valuable knowledge of the diversity of the grieving process.
Equipping you to work with individuals and groups experiencing loss and grief, this unit will help to prepare you for the varied and challenging situations you will encounter in practice.
You will examine a range of counselling theories and theoretical approaches, study real-world case studies to apply your knowledge, and identify the ethical dimensions associated with loss and grief counselling.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the diverse nature of the grieving process;
- critically analyse various theoretical approaches to loss and grief;
- apply knowledge of the grieving process to various counselling case studies as a practitioner;
- identify and critically analyse the ethical issues involved in dealing with loss and grief; and
- engage in self-reflexive practice in relation to personal loss experiences, spiritual beliefs and values.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Written assignment No. Words: 2500 |
| Assessment 2 - Assurance Task | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Exam paper comprising multiple choice and short answer questions. There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
New Techniques of Grief Therapy: Bereavement and Beyond
ISBN: 9780815352037
Robert A. Neimeyer , Routledge 1st ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Grief and Loss Across the Lifespan: A Biopsychosocial Perspective
ISBN: 9780826149633
McCoyd, J. L. M., Koller, J., & Walter, C. A., Springer Publishing Company, Incorporated 3rd Edition 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
