Frequently Asked Questions
Are the courses presented by correspondence? Do I have to attend any classes?
The following ICP courses are presented by means of Open Distance Learning:
BA Degree
Basic Christian Counselling Course
Advanced Counselling Course
Postgraduate Bridging Course in Christian Psychology
What does open-distance learning mean?
Open distance learning involves a system of tutorial classes (2-4 times a year), DVDs (for BA degree subjects), study letters, study guides/manuals and prescribed textbooks.
There are however compulsory tutorial classes which are presented once a year, during May.
* The BPsych is however presented by means of compulsory contact sessions (eight block contact sessions during the year – one block consists of a Wednesday - Saturday).
I am working and/or have children. How much time will I need to study?
The following amount of study hours is recommended for each course:
- Basic Christian Counselling Course
12 Study hours per week - Advanced Counselling Course
15 Study hours per week - BA Degree
25 Study hours per week - Postgraduate Bridging Course in Christian Psychology
10 Study hours per week (1st semester) 15 Study hours per week (2nd semester) - Bachelor of Psychology (BPsych)
25 Study hours per week
Are the courses accredited nationally?
The BA and BPsych degrees are accredited by SAQA, CHE & DoE.
I want to do the BA degree but I don’t have matric exemption. What do I do?
Students who do not have matric exemption but want to do the BA degree can do a bridging course. The Basic Christian Counselling Course is a one year course that also serves as a bridging course for the BA. Students who obtain an average mark of at least 55% for the Basic Christian Counselling Course will be accepted to do the BA degree.
Where do I write my exams?
Students who live further than a 90 minute drive from the ICP (Lambton, Germiston) will be able to write their exams at selected invigilation centers within their province.
What is the difference between the degrees presented at the ICP and other accredited universities?
All of the courses presented by the ICP are academic in nature. The BA and BPsych degrees are comparable to other universities’ degrees in terms of the academic standard and theoretical work. The difference between the ICP’s courses and a secular university’s courses is that theories are evaluated from a Christian perspective. Some Christian theories are also introduced. A Christian perspective is also included in some courses.
How does the payment structure work?
See Payment Procedure under Admission
Do you offer the courses in Afrikaans?
The primary language of instruction and assessment for all courses presented at the ICP is English.
Do you present classes in other cities or provinces?
The ICP currently only has one campus situated in Germiston. There are however tutors available in certain provinces.
Do you offer bursaries or student loans?
The ICP does not currently offer any bursaries or student loans.
Which course is the right course for me?
The best way to find the course which suits you is to ask yourself what you want to do with the course.
If you are interested in church related counselling (on a lay level) the Basic Christian Counselling Course (1 year) is the perfect option.
If you want to practice professionally you will start off by doing your BA degree (3 years) followed by a BPsych (1½ years). This will enable you to become a registered counsellor.
There are also other courses to choose from, depending on your needs, prior education and goals. The ICP also offers student support services which entails helping prospective students to choose suitable courses. Please see Support Services.
I am already a practicing professional but I’m interested in practicing from a Christian perspective.
The Postgraduate Bridging Course in Christian Psychology is a one year course which focuses on the integration of psychology and biblical faith. The aim of this course is to equip Christian mental health professionals and counsellors, to provide mental health services and counselling from a biblically based systemic perspective. To do this course a BA / B.Sc degree with Psychology as major from any accredited institution in South Africa (completed no more than 10 years ago) is a prerequisite.
What is the difference between an Honours and a BPsych degree?
An honours degree is more theoretically focused. A BPsych degree contains a practical aspect and students who complete it are equipped to practice independently as registered counsellors.
Upon completion of both the honours and BPsych degrees students may apply for a master’s degree at various South African universities.
What can a registered counsellor do?
Students who pass the board exam of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) are able to register as counsellors with the HPCSA. Registered counsellors are able to register with the Health Professions Council (HPCSA) and practice independently. They are qualified to do more formalized, structured and short-term interventions (4-6 sessions).
*For more information on a registered counsellors scope of practice please visit the HPCSA’s website:
Practice framework for registered counsellors.pdf
What do I do to become a psychologist?
In order to become a psychologist you have to complete a course work Masters degree in Psychology. To apply for a Masters degree you need an honours (psychology) or a BPsych degree. The ICP does not currently offer a Masters degree.
What other opportunities are there with a BA degree obtained from the ICP?
A BA degree may lead to careers in for example media, journalism, advertising and politics to name just a few. Students who major in Industrial Psychology have great opportunities in the work place like for instance in HR.
Click here for more information on career opportunities.
