Key facts
UNE unit code: HSCS103
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- 6
Unit information
This introductory unit guides you through essential strategies and skills that are foundational in shaping your identity as a counsellor. Through active participation in mandatory intensive schools, you will develop an understanding of the importance of effective communication, critical thinking and reflexive practice skills in a helping profession. You will also engage in hands-on activities and demonstrations in a supportive learning environment, applying counselling theory to practice.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 3 days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | Mandatory online intensive school. First intensive to be held during the mid-trimester intensive period. There are 2 mandatory intensive schools for this unit and attendance is compulsory at both intensives - 6 days total. Dates to be advised. |
| TBA | TBA | 3 days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | Mandatory online intensive school. Second intensive to be held during the end of trimester intensive period. There are 2 mandatory intensive schools for this unit and attendance is compulsory at both intensives - 6 days total. Dates to be advised. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Students must attend both intensive schools for this unit. Two assessment tasks are linked to the intensive schools. There is no alternative to missing the intensive school.
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:
- develop an understanding of effective communication, self-awareness and reflexive thinking skills integral to their role as counsellors;
- demonstrate foundation knowledge of role of the counsellor; and
- develop awareness of how to apply counselling theory to practice.
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 - Assurance Task | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Individual and group work activities during the first intensive school. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. No. Words: equiv. to 1500 |
| Assessment 2 - Assurance Task | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Individual and group work activities during the second intensive school. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. No. Words: equiv. to 1500 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Online Quiz No. Words: equiv. to 2000 |
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.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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.
2027 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.
