Professional Certificate in Behavioural Activation for Depression

Non-Award | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
Online
Start date icon
Start date
September Key study dates
Campus icon
Campus
Duration icon
Duration
0.125 year(s) part-time only (no full-time option)
Program code icon
Program code
PCBAD
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
$950 excl. GST (50% discount for health professionals residing in MMM 2-7)
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.5 IELTS Listening 6.5 IELTS Speaking 6.5 IELTS Writing 6.5 Equivalent English qualifications
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The professional certificate is available to individuals who work in healthcare environments.

Recognition of prior learning

  • There is no recognition of prior learning available for this course. 

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6.5
  • IELTS Listening 6.5
  • IELTS Speaking 6.5
  • IELTS Writing 6.5

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Professional Certificate in Behavioural Activation for Depression?

Overview

This online program is directed at individuals who work within healthcare environments where they may come across individuals who are at risk of mood disorders or are interested in developing skills for therapeutic relationships, assessment of mood and the practical application of Behavioural Activation. This 10 week online program prepares you to practice Behavioural Activation with people living with mild to moderate depression or describe difficulties with their mood. You will discuss the theory underpinning Behavioural Activation and the literature supporting the use of Behavioural Activation as an evidenced-based treatment for depression.

The online program has a series of recorded lectures, clinical modelling and forum tasks that will provide an opportunity to observe the application of Behavioural Activation and practice the core skills required to deliver Behavioural Activation in people living with depression.

The program is delivered online and therefore it is expected you will have sufficient computing skills to engage in online learning, word processing, and browsing the internet.

You will also require reliable access to the internet in order to access the online learning resources.

What you'll learn

This program was developed with international experts from Australia and the United Kingdom, and is driven by the latest literature, complimented with theory to practice demonstration and skill development.

Individual benefits

  • Develop skills that will assist you to build relationships with people who are depressed.
  • Understand the links between behaviour and emotion and vice versa.
  • Develop assessment skills in Behavioural Activation and the screening of mood disorders.
  • Develop simple but practical skills to help people to better manage their mood.
  • Develop skills to schedule activities that have a positive effect upon mood.

Organisational benefits

  • Practitioners who complete the online program will develop and demonstrate they have the skills and competences to provide a simple and effective evidenced based treatment for depression.
  • A flexible learning environment that is 100% online, which can be accessed 24 hours a day, resulting in less disruption to day to day practice.

On completion of this course, students should be able to:

Deliver a manualised six-session behavioural activation intervention for people with depression. Trainees will demonstrate competence in the following:

  • Foundation and process skills (engagement, agenda setting, reflection, use of time, summarising, eliciting questions, eliciting feedback, safety, building self-efficacy, setting homework, disengagement)
  • Behavioural activation assessment
  • Mood monitoring
  • Activity scheduling

Degree Structure: Professional Certificate in Behavioural Activation for Depression

Program code: PCBAD

Complete 6 units comprising:

  • 6 units for all Core courses

Courses

Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.

What courses you'll study

Complete 6 units comprising:

  • 6 units for all Core courses

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Behavioural Activation for Depression
Course code
HLTH8003
Units
6

Ready to apply?

How to Apply

How to apply

Please note this program is not available to international students wishing to study on a student visa.

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. 

 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Contact us

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Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.