Bachelor of Counselling
Counselling at BTI
Develop the personal awareness, professional knowledge and practical skills to support people through life’s challenges.
Bachelor of Counselling at a glance
Study counselling at BTI
Counselling involves walking alongside people as they navigate challenges, make changes and find ways forward. At BTI, you’ll develop the knowledge, skills and personal awareness needed for this important work.
What you’ll learn
The Bachelor of Counselling brings together counselling theory, practical skills and personal formation.
You’ll explore ways of supporting children, young people and adults experiencing grief, trauma, addiction, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression and other challenges.
Why study at BTI?
- Christ-centred and biblically informed learning
- Small teaching groups and supportive educators
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
- A relational, strengths-based learning community
- Learning that connects theory with practice
How study works
You can study online while living elsewhere in New Zealand, with scheduled learning activities and compulsory block courses in Tauranga.
Online learning
Study online with support from BTI educators and fellow students. Some courses may also offer a hybrid onsite class option.
On-campus blocks
All students attend block courses in Tauranga once each semester, normally in February or March and July or August.
Study commitment
Full-time study requires approximately 35–40 hours each week. Limited part-time places may be available.
Year 1 weekly tutorials require daytime attendance. If you’re considering part-time study, allow around one day per week for each course.
Entry requirements and applying
Counselling study involves personal reflection and preparation for working alongside people in a professional setting. There are some important requirements to understand before you apply.
- Applicants must be over 25 years of age at the time of application.
- Applicants must participate in an individual interview and a half-day small-group selection process.
- A professional referee is required as part of the application.
- Police clearance is required because students work alongside vulnerable people.
Before applying: Please read the full 2027 programme guide and entry requirements to understand the admission and selection process.
2027 Counselling Programme Guide
Explore the programme in more detail, including what you’ll study, how the degree is structured, entry requirements and the application process.
Ready to take the next step?
Apply for the 2027 Bachelor of Counselling or get in touch if you’d like to talk through your study options.
Study Enquiry Form 2027
Use this form to enquire about studying at BTI. Enquiries are sent to the BTI admissions team for follow-up.
“Choosing BTI to pursue my dream of counselling has provided me with a steadfast base to my practice that helps me to have confidence in my abilities as well as an awareness to continually reflect and strive to be the best practitioner I can be for my clients.”
Shivonne – BTI Counselling graduate
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