About IGNOU CAHC – Certificate in Adolescent Health and Counselling
This programme teaches you how to handle the physical and mental changes that happen during teenage years. It prepares you to work as a guide or support person for young people in schools, clinics, and local neighborhoods.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are a school teacher who wants to help students deal with exam stress or personal problems, this course is designed for you. Parents who want to understand their growing children better will find the lessons very helpful. Nursing staff and health workers who deal with young patients daily also join this programme to improve their communication skills. It is perfect for anyone living in a small town or city who wants to start a career in youth welfare or school counseling.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because the total fee is only 2,000 rupees, which is much cheaper than private counseling diplomas. Since it is a distance learning course, you can study from home while keeping your regular job or managing your family. The degree is recognized all over India, making it a safe choice for government job applications. It covers sensitive topics like nutrition and mental health in a simple way that is easy to understand without a deep medical background.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After finishing the course, you can look for work in local government schools as a student wellness guide. Many non-profit organizations (NGOs) like Childline or local community centers need people with this certificate to talk to teenagers about health and safety. You can work as a junior counselor in private clinics or help run health awareness camps in rural areas. It also helps if you want to apply for roles like Anganwadi supervisor or social worker in state health departments.
IGNOU CAHC (Certificate in Adolescent Health and Counselling) Highlights
The table below provides a quick summary of the Certificate in Adolescent Health and Counselling. It includes details about how long the course takes and what you need to join.
| Programme Name | Certificate in Adolescent Health and Counselling |
| Programme Code | CAHC |
| Minimum Duration | 6 Months |
| Maximum Duration | 2 Years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or equivalent |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Offering School | School of Health Sciences |
IGNOU CAHC Admission – Important Details
When you apply for the CAHC course, you need to choose a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near your home. These centers will handle your practical work and assignments. You will get printed books from IGNOU to study the three main subjects. Even though the course is only six months long, IGNOU gives you up to two years to pass all your exams. This is helpful if you miss an exam due to work or personal reasons. Make sure to submit your assignments on time to be eligible for the final term-end exams.
IGNOU CAHC Admission Last Date 2026
The admission process happens twice every year. For the January session, the last date is typically February 28, 2026. For the July session, the last date is typically July 31, 2026. You should always check the Samarth Portal for any date extensions. It is better to apply early so you can get your books and start studying before the classes begin at your local center.
IGNOU CAHC Eligibility Criteria
To get into this certificate programme, you must meet the following simple requirements set by the university:
- Applicants must have passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or an equivalent exam from a recognized board.
- Teachers and medical professionals are encouraged to apply for professional growth.
- Any individual interested in adolescent health advocacy can join if they meet the 10+2 requirement.
IGNOU CAHC Fees Structure 2026
The fees for this programme are kept low so that everyone can afford to study. Here is the exact cost you will pay during admission:
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Total Programme Fee | INR 2,000 |
| Registration Fee | INR 300 (Non-refundable) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU CAHC Admission
- Visit the IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click on the “New Registration” button.
- Create a unique username and a strong password using your email ID and mobile number.
- Log in again and fill out the full application form, making sure to select CAHC from the list of certificate programmes.
- Select the Regional Centre and a Study Centre that is easy for you to visit for counseling.
- Upload your scanned documents: a recent passport photo, your signature, and your 10th and 12th class marksheet.
- Pay the total fee of 2,300 rupees online using your Debit card, Credit card, or UPI app.
- Download the final application form and the payment receipt. Save these on your phone or print them for future use.
IGNOU CAHC Curriculum and Course Structure
The CAHC course consists of three main subjects. You need to earn a total of 14 credits to complete the programme successfully. Each subject focuses on a different part of teenager wellness and guidance techniques.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| Six Months | CNS-AH-001: Adolescent Health and Counseling (4 Credits) |
| Six Months | CNS-AH-002: Practical Aspects of Adolescent Health (4 Credits) |
| Six Months | CNS-AH-003: Counseling Skills and Techniques (6 Credits) |
IGNOU CAHC Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Health Sciences.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Prof. Pity Koul | pkoul@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572807 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU CAHC
Once you finish this course, you can work as a Youth Health Consultant or a School Welfare Coordinator. Many people find jobs as Community Health Workers in villages where they teach families about nutrition and teenage safety. You can also work in NGOs that focus on preventing substance abuse among young people. If you already work as a nurse or a teacher, this certificate helps you get promoted to senior roles that involve student guidance. This qualification is a great first step if you plan to study for a full degree in psychology later.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ Admission details for the 2026 session will be updated after IGNOU releases the official notification. Always verify fees, dates, and eligibility at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in before applying.
Also Read
More resources for CAHC students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU CAHC Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University). All information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Fee amounts, eligibility criteria, and admission dates are subject to change. Always verify current details at ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
