Athabasca University’s online University Certificate in Counselling Women is specifically designed for those who work directly with women in crisis intervention. The program applies feminist theory to the practice of counselling women in these settings.
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The University Certificate in Counselling Women is a comprehensive program aimed at equipping professionals and volunteers with the skills to understand and address the unique challenges faced by women. Through this program, you'll gain valuable insights into the cultural, social, and feminist perspectives that inform the human experience, learning how to identify client needs, refer them to appropriate services, and critically analyze various issues from a feminist viewpoint. Whether you're a nurse, social worker, teacher, or in another helping profession, this certificate will enhance your problem-solving and counselling abilities, making you better equipped to support diverse human experiences and tackle issues such as sexism, racism, and ageism.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for this program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Program details
Overview
This program explores feminist insights that support the diversity of human experience, identity, and ways of life. In this program you will learn to:
identify client needs
refer clients appropriately
critically analyze social and counselling issues from a feminist perspective
understand the shifting social, political, economic and cultural contexts in which counselling takes place
You will also develop your awareness of the cultural and social bases of human prejudice and discrimination, including:
sexism
racism
ethnocentrism
ageism
classism
Why take the University Certificate in Counselling Women?
The University Certificate in Counselling Women enhances counselling and problem-solving skills for both professionals and volunteers:
crisis workers
social workers
family life educators
adult educators
nurses
teachers
vocational counsellors
Completion times
Finish this program in as little as 1 year of full-time study, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your certificate.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
If you have previous post-secondary education or significant life and work experience that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). This could mean fewer courses to get your AU certificate.
If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 6 credits at AU.
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
Estimated program costs are available in the Calendar.
Financial aid and awards
We're dedicated to supporting your academic goals and committed to helping you overcome financial barriers by providing many funding and award options.
In this certificate program, you'll delve into a mix of required and elective courses covering topics from feminist counseling methods and the psychology of gender to communication skills. The electives offer flexibility, allowing you to explore various subjects such as literature, political economy, and social movements, tailoring your educational experience to better suit your interests and career goals.
To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the general requirements of the University Certificate in Counselling Women.
Our program course plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you'll take them in. If you're feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Below are some of the courses that our students take in this program. Please consult an advisor to confirm any course planning, as some of these courses may not apply to you.
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Focus areas
Career options
With a University Certificate in Counselling Women, you'll be well-positioned for careers that require a deep understanding of gender dynamics, social issues, and counseling methods. This can lead to roles in diverse settings such as crisis centres, schools, healthcare facilities, and community organizations, where you can make a meaningful impact as a social worker, educator, counsellor, or advocate.
Depending on your work experience and other credentials, you could pursue careers such as:
crisis worker
social worker
family life educator
adult educator
vocational counsellor
mental health counsellor
human resources specialist
school counsellor
women's health advocate
gender equality officer
domestic violence support worker
sexual health educator
substance abuse counsellor
employee wellness coordinator
community outreach coordinator
Resources and links
Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.