Social Sciences Psychology & Counselling
Programme Overview
Highlights
This comprehensive course provides a solid foundation in counselling theories and techniques, preparing you for both personal growth and professional advancement. Many of our graduates have successfully pursued master's degrees in counselling and psychology, both in Hong Kong and internationally.
Key topics covered include:
- Introduction to Counselling
- Non-verbal and Verbal Communication Skills in Counselling
- Various Approaches to Counselling
These modules will equip you with a broad understanding of the discipline, setting the stage for advanced studies in counselling and related fields.
Our program is designed for professionals from diverse backgrounds, including:
- Social services
- Human resources
- Education
- Community services
- Business
- Religious organisations
- Healthcare
Whether you're aiming to start a counselling career or enhance your current role with counselling skills, this versatile course opens doors to numerous opportunities.
Upon completion, and based on your personal merits and academic background (including your bachelor's degree), you'll be eligible to apply for the Master of Social Sciences in Counselling at universities in Hong Kong or overseas institutions.
Programme Details
This Advanced Certificate programme is a part-time programme primarily designed for those who are interested to acquire general knowledge in some of the key areas in Counselling. The programme is also suitable for practitioners in fields such as education, business, human resources, nursing, and public services etc. who are seeking to enhance personal or professional development. For degree holders (in a discipline other than counselling) who are considering further studies in the area of counselling, the Advanced Certificate programme will provide them with a good understanding of the discipline.
Assessment
In general, assessment will be by coursework and written examination. The minimum attendance requirement is 75% for each module.
Programme Duration
The Advanced Certificate programme can be completed in two semesters on a part-time basis. The maximum registration period is three years. There are two intake per year: April and October.
Medium of Instruction
Applicants should be able to read and write in both English and Chinese. All assignments and examinations must be written in English.
Tentative venue
- HKU SPACE Kowloon East Campus;
- HKU SPACE Island East Campus;
- HKU SPACE Fortress Tower Learning Centre;
- HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College (HPSHCC) Campus.
Days / Time
- Tue, Thu, Fri, 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Application Code | 2280-CS029A | Apply Online Now |
Apply Online Now |
Duration
- 1 year minimum, 3 years maximum
Modules & Class Details
Modules
Participants can complete the Programme within 1 - 3 years from the date of registration at HKU School of Professional and Continuing Education.
There are 6 modules in the Programme (total 198 hours):
- Introduction to Psychology (48 hours)
- Introduction to Counselling (30 hours)
- Developmental Psychology (30 hours)
- Alternative Approaches to Counselling (30 hours)
- Micro-skills in Counselling (30 hours)
- Self-understanding and Communication Skills (30 hours)
Modules focuses on theoretical training in Counselling and Psychology
Module 1: Introduction to Psychology (48 hours)
This module offers a comprehensive introduction to general and experimental psychology, covering key areas of the field:
- Foundations: Explore the history and nature of psychology
- Biological Basis: Understand the neurobiological underpinnings of psychological processes
- Human Development: Study psychological growth across the lifespan
- Cognitive Processes: Examine sensation, perception, learning, memory, language, and thought
- Emotional Aspects: Investigate motivation, emotion, conflict, and stress
- Social Dimension: Analyse human social behaviour and interactions
Module 2: Introduction to Counselling (30 hours)
This module explores key aspects of counselling:
- Major theoretical perspectives and their core assumptions
- Therapeutic processes and counselling skills
- Ethical considerations in practice
- Contemporary issues and trends in the field
Module 3: Developmental Psychology (30 hours)
This module examines:
- Human development from infancy to late adulthood
- Physical, cognitive, and social aspects of each life stage
- Major developmental theories and concepts
- Socio-cultural and environmental influences on growth
Modules focuses on Practicum Supervision
Module 4: Alternative Approaches to Counselling (30 hours)
- Theories and practices of art therapy, play therapy, and other alternative counselling methods
- Complementary techniques to traditional "talking" therapy
- Expansion of students' counselling skills
- Experiential learning opportunities with various therapeutic approaches
Module 5: Micro-skills in Counselling (30 hours)
- Analyse the impact of various microskills on client interactions
- Identify core communication strategies and their purposes
- Learn to select and apply appropriate techniques throughout the counselling process
- Engage in hands-on exercises, demonstrations, and role-play scenarios
- Practice in small groups to enhance skill acquisition
Module 6: Self-understanding and Communication Skills (30 hours)
- Developing self-awareness and value clarification
- Exploring human communication processes and patterns
- Improving interpersonal communication skills
Teachers
Teacher Information
Mrs. Winnie Lee
Mrs. Winnie Lee is a Registered Counselling and Educational Psychologist with over 30 years of experience in Australia and Hong Kong. She lectures part-time at the University of Hong Kong's MSocSc (Counselling) Course and supervises practicum students. Mrs. Lee specialises in various mindfulness approaches including MBCT, MBSR, and Mindful Parenting. She works with diverse groups, from helping professionals to individuals with mental health concerns. Mrs. Lee is part of the OMC Teacher Partnership Programme and follows MBI-TAC good practice guides in her mindfulness teaching. Her extensive experience in psychology and mindfulness makes her an expert in the fields of counselling and personal development.
Mr Isaac Yu
Mr. Yu is an associate fellow and registered counselling psychologist with the Hong Kong Psychological Society, as well as the president, registered clinical supervisor, and counsellor of the Asian Professional Counselling and Psychology Association. He earned his Master of Social Sciences in Counselling Psychology with distinction from Hong Kong Shue Yan University and studied Family Therapy at the HKU Family Institute.
Since graduating, Mr. Yu has taught courses in personal growth, group counselling, abnormal psychology, social psychology, personality and individual differences, and autism spectrum disorders. He also provides research and clinical supervision for local bachelor's and master's students.
Specializing in analysing and resolving personal, career, and life issues across various life stages, Mr. Yu offers comprehensive and preventive psychotherapy and counselling services. He utilizes psychological assessments to analyse individual talents and strengths. His extensive experience includes providing individual and group counselling, psychological assessments, and career and life planning counselling in diverse settings, such as mainstream schools, institutions specializing in autism spectrum disorders, organizations focused on special learning disabilities, and various NGOs and private entities.
Miss Losana Chan
Master of Sacred Theology in Spirituality and Counseling (HK) Master of Art in Counseling (USA) Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care (USA) Bachelor of Science in Counseling Psychology (USA)
Executive Director of Shalom Holistic Care Centre
Experienced counsellor / psychotherapist
Experienced in providing psychotherapy
Former senior university lecturer of psychology and counselling department
Adjunct lecturer of School of continuing and professional studies of psychology and counselling courses
Professional clinical supervisor
Fee & Entry Requirements
Fee
HK$150 non-refundable
Course Fee- Course Fee : HK$19,800 per programme (to be paid in 1 instalment)
Entry Requirements
Applicants are expected to be holders of:
- a recognized bachelor’s degree in any discipline; or
- an Associate Degree or a Higher Diploma or an Advanced Diploma in any discipline awarded by a recognized institution; or
- an equivalent qualification.
CEF
- The CEF Institution Code of HKU SPACE is 100
CEF Courses | ||
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Advanced Certificate in Counselling 輔導高等證書 |
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COURSE CODE 44K10608A | FEES $19,800 | ENQUIRY 2975-5655 |
Continuing Education Fund This course has been included in the list of reimbursable courses under the Continuing Education Fund. |
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Advanced Certificate in Counselling
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Apply
Online Application Apply Now
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Enrolment MethodOnline Enrolment
HKU SPACE provides 24-hour online application and payment service for students to apply to selected award-bearing programmes and to enrol in most open admission courses (courses enrolled on a first come, first served basis) via the Internet. Applicants may settle the payment by using either "PPS by Internet" (not available via mobile phones), VISA or Mastercard online. Online WeChat Pay, Online AliPay and Faster Payment System (FPS) are also available for continuing enrolment in the same programme, if online service is offered.
For first time enrolment
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Complete the online application form
Applicant may click the icon on the top right-hand corner of the programme/course webpage to make online application, and then follow the instructions to fill in the online application form.
Some programmes/courses may admit by selection, and may require applicants to provide electronic copy of any required documents (e.g. proof of qualification) as indicated on the programme/course webpage. Only file format in doc, docx, jpg and pdf are supported. -
Make Online Payment
Pay the application or programme/course fees by either using:
"PPS by Internet" - You will need a PPS account and a PPS Internet password. For information on how to open a PPS account and how to set up a PPS Internet password, please visit http://www.ppshk.com.
*Credit Card Online Payment - Course fees can be paid by VISA or Mastercard including the “HKU SPACE Mastercard”.
* HKU SPACE Mastercard cardholders who wish to enjoy 10-month interest free instalment scheme must pay their tuition fees in person at any of our HKU SPACE Enrolment Centres.
To know more about first-time online application/enrolment and payment, please refer to the user guide of Online Application / Enrolment and Payment:
For continuing enrolment in the same programme
Selected programmes offer online continuing enrolment service. Programme staff will inform students if they offer this service and offer further enrolment details.
Online Payment can be made via "PPS by Internet" (not available via mobile phones), VISA or Mastercard, Online WeChat Pay, Online AliPay and Faster Payment System (FPS)
In Person / Mail
For first time enrolment
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For first come, first served short courses, complete the Application for Enrolment Form SF26 and bring or post the completed form(s), together with the appropriate application/course fee(s) and any required supporting documents to any of the HKU SPACE enrolment centres.
[Download Enrolment Form SF26] -
Award-bearing and professional courses may require other information. Forms are usually available at the enrolment centres or on request from programme staff. Bring or post the completed form(s), together with the appropriate application/course fee(s) and any required supporting documents to any of the HKU SPACE enrolment centres.
For continuing enrolment in the same programme
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The standard ‘Enrolment/Payment Slip’ is designed for students of award-bearing programmes or remaining programmes in a suite of programmes requiring continuing enrolment and it applies to most programmes.
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Students should complete the “Enrolment/Payment Slip” which will be made available by relevant programme staff and return the slip to any HKU SPACE enrolment centre or post it to the relevant programme staff with appropriate fee payment.
Please refer to available Payment Methods for fee payment information. If you are in doubt about the procedures, please check the individual course details, or contact our programme staff or enrolment centres.
Please note the followings for programme/course enrollment:
- To make an application online, you will need a computer with connection to the Internet and a web browser with JavaScript enabled. Google Chrome is recommended.
- Applicants should not leave the online application idle for more than 10 minutes. Otherwise, applicants must restart the application process.
- Only Early Bird Discount is supported for Online Applicants (Application). To enjoy other types of discount, please visit one of our enrolment centres.
- During the online application process, asynchronous application and payment submission may occur. Successful payment may not guarantee successful application. In case of unsuccessful submission, our programme staff will contact you shortly.
- Applicants are reminded that they should only apply for the same programme/course once through counter or online application.
- For online enrolment, a payment confirmation page would be displayed after payment has been made successfully. In addition, a confirmation email would also be sent to your email account. You are advised to keep your payment confirmation for future enquiries.
- Fees paid are not refundable except as statutorily provided or under very exceptional circumstances (e.g. course cancellation due to insufficient enrolment).
- If admission is by selection, the official receipt is not a guarantee that your application has been accepted. We will inform you of the result as soon as possible after the closing date for application. Unsuccessful applicants will be given a refund of programme/course fee if already paid.
Disclaimer
The School provides a platform for online services for a selected range of products it offers. While every effort is made to ensure timeliness and accuracy of information contained in this website, such information and materials are provided "as is" without express or implied warranty of any kind. In particular, no warranty or assurance regarding non-infringement, security, accuracy, fitness for a purpose or freedom from computer viruses is given in connection with such information and materials.
The School (and its respective employees and subsidiaries) is not liable for any loss or damage in connection with any online payments made by you by reason of (i) any failure, delay, interruption, suspension or restriction of the transmission of any information or message from any payment gateways of the relevant banks and/or third party merchants for processing credit/debit/smart card or other payment facilitation mechanism; (ii) any negligence, mistake, error in or omission from any information or message transmitted from the said payment gateways; (iii) any breakdown, malfunction or failure of those gateways in effecting online payment service or (iv) anything arisen out of or in connection with the said payment gateways, including but not limited to unauthorised access to or alternation of the transmission of data or any unlawful act not permitted by the law.
1. Cash, EPS, WeChat Pay Or Alipay
Course fees can be paid by cash, EPS, WeChat Pay or Alipay at any HKU SPACE Enrolment Centres.
2. Cheque Or Bank draft
Course fees can also be paid by crossed cheque or bank draft made payable to “HKU SPACE”. Please specify the programme title(s) for application and applicant’s name. You may either:
- bring the completed form(s), together with the appropriate course or application fees in the form of a cheque, and any required supporting documents to any of the HKU SPACE enrolment centres;
- or mail the above documents to any of the HKU SPACE Enrolment Centres, specifying “Course Application” on the envelope. HKU SPACE will not be responsible for any loss of personal information and payment sent by mail.
3. VISA/Mastercard
Applicants may also pay the course fee by VISA or Mastercard, including the “HKU SPACE Mastercard”, at any HKU SPACE enrolment centres. Holders of the HKU SPACE Mastercard can enjoy a 10-month interest-free instalment period for courses with a tuition fee worth a minimum of HK$2,000; however, the course applicant must also be the cardholder himself/herself. For enquiries, please contact our staff at any enrolment centres.
4. Online Payment
Online application / enrolment is offered for most open admission courses (enrolled on first come, first served basis) and selected award-bearing programmes. Application fees and course fees of these programmes/courses can be settled by using "PPS by Internet" (not available via mobile phones), VISA or Mastercard. In addition to the aforesaid online payment channels, new and continuing students of award-bearing programmes with available online service, they may also pay their course fees by Online WeChat Pay, Online Alipay or Faster Payment System (FPS). Please refer to Enrolment Methods - Online Enrolment for details.
Notes
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If the programme/course is starting within five working days, application by post is not recommended to avoid any delays. Applicants are advised to enrol in person at HKU SPACE Enrolment Centres and avoid making cheque payment under this circumstance.
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Fees paid are not refundable except under very exceptional circumstances (e.g. course cancellation due to insufficient enrolment), subject to the School’s discretion. In exceptional cases where a refund is approved, fees paid by cash, EPS, WeChat Pay, Alipay, cheque, FPS or PPS by Internet will be reimbursed by a cheque, and fees paid by credit card will be reimbursed to the credit card account used for payment.
- In addition to the published fees, there may be additional costs associated with individual programmes. Please refer to the relevant course brochures or direct any enquiries to the relevant programme team for details.
- Fees and places on courses cannot be transferrable from one applicant to another. Once accepted onto a course, the student may not change to another course without approval from HKU SPACE. A processing fee of HK$120 will be levied on each approved transfer.
- HKU SPACE will not be responsible for any loss of payment, receipt, or personal information sent by mail.
- For payment certification, please submit a completed form, a sufficiently stamped and self-addressed envelope, and a crossed cheque for HK$30 per copy made payable to “HKU SPACE” to any of our enrolment centres.
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- Psychology & Counselling Social Sciences