Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychology

Start Date

July, Oct 2026

Duration

12 Months Full-Time

Mode

Weekdays In-Person

Assessment

100% Coursework

Singapore Diploma In Psychotherapy

Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychology

Awarded by Aventis Graduate School

Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychology is designed to equip learners with a strong foundation in psychological theories, counselling approaches, and practical intervention skills. This intensive one-year programme integrates academic knowledge with hands-on practice, preparing graduates to support individuals across diverse settings, including healthcare, education, and community services.

Learners will develop critical thinking, ethical awareness, and applied counselling competencies, with a strong emphasis on real-world practice through supervised training and skills-based modules.

Career Opportunities

The Care Economy comprises a professional cluster of jobs and skills involved in nurturing and teaching current and future populations.

Almost 40% of job openings in emerging professions globally will be in the Care Economy by 2022.

Upon the completion of this course, you will be highly sought-after in these rewarding careers as, but not limited to:

Student Profile

43 Years Old (Average)
18.8 Years Of Average Working Experience
99% Working Professionals
68% Female : 32% Male
30% Senior Management
28% Middle Management
42% Professionals and Executives

Why Choose Aventis ?

Gain access to an outstanding education built on Aventis' 15 years of exceptional global reputation in graduate education. Earn a qualification from a graduate school that you can trust and respect.

Aventis is one of only 4 Business Schools in Singapore that is a member of the Executive MBA Council, the World’s Leading Body that champions advancement in MBA. Other members include the National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore Management University (SMU), and Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

Aventis is one of only 8 Business Schools in Singapore that is part of the AACSB International Business Education Alliance. Other members include Singapore University of Social Science (SUSS), National University of Singapore (NUS), and Singapore Management University (SMU)

Programme Structure

The Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychology comprises 10 modulesdelivered over 12 months (full-time).

Start Date

July, Oct 2026

Duration

12 Months Full Time

Time

Monday – Friday

Delivery Structure

The classes will be delivered in-person from Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm.

What Will You Learn?

Cognitive Psychology

This module explores the internal mental processes that influence human behaviour, including perception, memory, attention, language, and problem-solving. Learners will examine how individuals process information and how cognitive patterns impact emotional and behavioural responses, forming a foundation for therapeutic interventions.

Counselling and Psychotherapy

This module introduces major counselling theories and psychotherapeutic approaches, including person-centred, cognitive behavioural, and psychodynamic perspectives. Learners will develop an understanding of how these frameworks are applied in practice to support clients with diverse psychological needs.

Developmental Psychology

Focusing on human growth across the lifespan, this module examines physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development from infancy to adulthood. Learners will explore key developmental theories and their implications for counselling practice across different life stages.

Advanced Counselling Skills and Supervised Practice

This practice-oriented module develops advanced counselling competencies, including case formulation, active listening, and intervention planning. Learners will engage in supervised sessions and receive structured feedback to refine their professional skills and therapeutic effectiveness.

Group Counselling

This module introduces the principles and dynamics of group therapy. Learners will explore group processes, facilitation techniques, and the role of the counsellor in managing group interactions, fostering cohesion, and addressing group-based challenges.

Child Psychology and Intervention Strategies

This module focuses on the psychological development and behavioural patterns of children. Learners will examine common developmental challenges and design age-appropriate intervention strategies to support children’s emotional and psychological wellbeing.

Effective Counselling Techniques

This skills-based module equips learners with practical counselling tools, including questioning techniques, rapport building, empathy, and managing difficult conversations. Emphasis is placed on applying these techniques effectively across a range of client scenarios.

Ethics and the Contemporary Practice of Psychotherapy

This module explores ethical principles, professional standards, and legal considerations in counselling practice. Learners will examine real-world ethical dilemmas and develop the ability to make sound, responsible decisions in contemporary therapeutic settings.

Mindfulness and Mental Wellness

This module introduces mindfulness-based approaches to enhancing mental wellbeing. Learners will explore techniques such as meditation, stress reduction, and emotional regulation, and understand how these practices can be integrated into counselling interventions.

Perspectives in Social Psychology

This module examines how social influences shape thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Topics include social identity, group dynamics, attitudes, and interpersonal relationships, providing insights into how societal factors impact individual mental health and counselling outcomes.

Expert Faculty

Meet the expert faculty guiding your success.

Dr Lim Kok Kwang

PhD – University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Clinical Psychology)

  • Senior Consultant Clinical Psychologist with nearly 30 years of clinical practice; PhD, Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol), Fellow of the British Psychological Society (FBPsS), and Senior Practitioner on the Register of Psychologists Specialising in Psychotherapy (ROPSIP).
  • Highly decorated practitioner, including the Award for Outstanding Contribution to Psychology in Singapore (SPS) and the Distinguished Contribution to Practice Award (BPS); former President of the Singapore Psychological Society and Singapore Society of Clinical Hypnosis.
  • Internationally respected educator, supervisor, and researcher with training in mind-body medicine at Harvard Medical School; editorial board member of peer-reviewed journals, co-author of books on child and adolescent mental health, and frequent collaborator with healthcare, government, and academic institutions.
Dr Christopher Fong

Dr Christopher Fong

Doctor of Professional Studies, The University of Southern Queensland, Australia

  • Programme Leader for Aventis Masters in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy
  • Internationally recognised expert in Applied Behavioural Sciences, specialising at the intersection of clinical psychology and organisational development
  • Appointed National Fellow in Singapore’s social services sector in recognition of his impactful leadership and contributions to clinical practice and strategic leadership within the nonprofit landscape
Mr Anil Singh Soha

Mr Anil Singh Soha

Master of Social Sciences in Sociology, National University of Singapore

  • Senior Lecturer with over 10 years of lecturing experience in corporate mental wellness and counselling programmes with Aventis and SUSS.
  • Former Executive Director of HEB-Ashram Halfway House, with extensive leadership experience in rehabilitation and halfway house services.
  • Professional experiences in Community Outreach & Engagement with the National Addictions Management Service (NAMS), Institute of Mental Health (IMH).

Admission Criteria

You are expected to actively contribute to the class learning experience in a collaborative learning environment with your peers and cohort. All candidates will be assessed based on their working experience and merits. The minimum age requirement to apply for this programme is 21 years old.

  • A Bachelor degree or equivalent Undergraduate Qualification in any discipline; or
  • Graduate Diploma/Diploma or equivalent, with a minimum of 8 years working experience,

OR

30 years old and above, with 8 years of working experience but without an academic qualification, will also be considered on a case-by-case basis

Language Proficiency

  • GCE O Level English (C6 and above); or
  • IELTS score of 5.5 or above; or
  • For students who didn’t meet the language proficiency requirement, they will need to pass Aventis English Proficiency Test (EPT)

Awards and Funding

Upon completion of the programme, you will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychology by Aventis Graduate School, which is registered with SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).

Academic Journey

Upon completion of the programme, students will be eligible to apply to the Master of Arts in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy offered by University of Roehampton (UK), which can be completed within 24 months.

MA in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy

Fees

Our Graduate Diploma is one of the most affordable in Singapore. Download our brochure for more information about our scholarships available.

Success Stories

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course and hope to expand my acquired knowledge further into practice. It has been an enriching experience, especially for adult learners. The lecturers’ considerations and efforts shaped and moulded us accordingly. My experience at Aventis has been very beneficial to me. The course was very interesting, and the lecturers were highly professional and qualified. I will definitely introduce this programmes and Aventis to my friends."
Ms. Stansy Stephen
Manager, Allcare Nursing Services,
Alumni, 2016
"Your learning will also take place in the company of experienced working professionals, just like yourself, who can provide a unique vantage point on the subject at hand. Whether you are seeking to expand your knowledge, to further develop your qualifications or to widen your network, you will find that Aventis offers you an opportunity to do so like no other."
Mr. Cheo Hu Gang
Manager, Rotra Chemicals,
Alumni, 2017

Pro-bono Counselling Service

As part of the Aventis CARE Programme to promote Mental Wellness and Workplace Counselling Services, we are proud to offer complimentary 5 sessions of pro-bono Counselling and Coaching for all our students, faculty, staff and alumni.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Graduate School?

A graduate school is a school that awards advanced academic degrees with the general requirement that learners must have earned a previous undergraduate or a mature candidate with more than 8 years working experience. Graduate school focus on professional development as compared to traditional school which focus on academic theories and research.

Is Aventis a recognised institute?

Aventis Graduate School is registered with Skillsfuture Singapore (SSG) and complies with the Private Education Act. Aventis is also a member of AACSB Business Alliance Group and EMBA Council.

How is graduate school different from other levels of education?

Compared to other levels of study, graduate school involves a more concentrated course of study with higher expectations for both the quality and quantity of your work. Graduate programs also focus more deeply on a specific discipline, with an emphasis on practical experience and case studies.

What is a Graduate Diploma?

A Graduate diploma is an advanced diploma that is usually taken after a bachelor degree. A graduate diploma is typically shorter in duration than a master degree course and should be viewed as an additional specialisation that improves a person’s overall employability. For a graduate diploma qualification to be offered in Singapore, the awarding body must be registered with Skillsfuture Singapore (SSG)

What is a Postgraduate Diploma?

Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF)

A postgraduate diploma is considered as a Level 7 academic qualification under the RQF (UK).  Postgraduate qualification are commonly awarded in UK, Canada, India, Australia and New Zealand. Similar to Graduate Diploma, Postgraduate diploma is typically done after a bachelor’s degree course. In some countries, the terms graduate diploma and postgraduate diploma are interchangeable, whereas in others, the postgraduate diploma is a higher qualification.

If I am a self-sponsored candidate, do you offer any financial plans to help me pay for my education?

Once you’ve chosen a course that aligns with your interests and meets your qualifications, we can help arrange instalment plans or education loans through our trusted banking partners. This ensures your aspirations and career goals remain within reach.

How long will it take to complete my studies?

Course duration varies on your chosen specialisation. Typically, a graduate diploma can be completed in 6 months part-time, while a master’s degree usually takes around 12 months part-time. For more detailed information tailored to your specific course, please speak with one of our programme advisors.

Is the Master's Degree awarded the same as the on-campus programme?

The Master’s degree awarded to you is exactly the same as that given to on-campus students of the external University partners in the UK. You are invited to attend the graduation ceremony either in Singapore or on campus in the UK.

Do you offer online programmes?

Yes. To meet the growing demand for graduate education worldwide, most of our courses are delivered via Zoom live stream, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere. All classes are also recorded for easy revision.

What is a typical class profile?

A typical cohort consists of Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, and foreign expatriates working in Singapore. Additionally, an increasing number of professionals based outside Singapore are enrolling in our graduate programmes, facilitated by the flexible online delivery format.

Are scholarships or study loans available?

Yes, scholarships are available to eligible students. For more information, refer to the Aventis Course Listing page

What are the available instalment payment schemes?

Aventis offers flexible and affordable payment plans to make our programmes more accessible.

For Postgraduate and Graduate Diploma programmes:

  • 12-month interest-free instalments with DBS credit card
  • 3-month instalment plan via ATOME

For MBA and Master’s programmes:

  • Tuition fees can be paid over 4 instalments across the duration of the programme
  • Alternatively, you can apply for an education loan with our banking partners for monthly repayments
Is a Bachelor's degree required for admission?

While a Bachelor degree or equivalent Undergraduate Qualification in any discipline is required, applicants with a Graduate Diploma/Diploma or equivalent, with a minimum of 8 years working experience can also apply. Applicants aged 30 and above with substantial work experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact our Programme Advisor for further details.

Are there any other hidden fees besides the course fees?

The course fees cover tuition, academic services, required readings and teaching materials, e-learning resources, and web-based information services. A one-time application fee of S$200 (subject to GST) is applicable. All fees are transparently stated, and there are no hidden charges.

Can I defer my studies? Will I be penalised?

All our programmes are designed to accommodate working professionals. If you are unable to commit to the course requirements, you are advised to defer your studies to a later intake. There is no academic penalty for deferment. However, a deferment application fee of S$200 (subject to GST) is applicable. Please consult your programme advisor for the deferment cut-off date specific to your chosen programme.

Is attendance compulsory?

No, there is no minimum attendance requirement for our Part-Time programmes. However, students are strongly encouraged to attend at least 75% of all classes. Those who are unable to attend are advised to watch the recorded sessions before attempting any assessments or coursework to ensure they stay on track with the learning objectives.

Students taking Full-Time programme are required to achieve minimum 90% overall attendance.

Can I refer my friends or colleagues?

Yes, graduate education is a dynamic learning experience where peer discussion, reflection, and case studies enrich your journey. As a gesture of appreciation, we offer a referral reward of S$400 for each successful Master’s degree referral and S$200 for each successful Graduate Diploma referral. Terms and conditions apply.

Can I graduate overseas instead of in Singapore?

Yes. The Master’s degree conferred is identical to the one awarded to on-campus students of the external University partners in the UK. You have the option to attend your graduation ceremony in Singapore or UK, depending on the awarding university.

How do I get started?

Simply fill in the form below and one of our programme advisors will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.

What's Next?

Take the next step towards your academic success. Download our course brochure, Apply Now or Speak to your dedicated programme advisor Mr Melvyn Goh @ 8071 5768 to learn more!

Download Brochure

Find out more about your eligibility and scholarships available.

Unlock Your Success | Download Brochure Below 

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