About IGNOU PGDCFT – Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy
This programme focuses on teaching the practical skills needed to support families and individuals dealing with emotional or relationship problems. It prepares students for professional work in mental health by blending psychological theories with hands-on therapeutic techniques.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you have a background in psychology, social work, or nursing and want to start a career as a professional counselor, this course is designed for you. It is ideal for teachers or social workers who frequently deal with family disputes and want a formal qualification to help people more effectively. Many students who are already working in NGOs or hospitals choose this diploma to gain specialized knowledge in family dynamics without leaving their current jobs.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it provides a high-quality education in therapy at a much lower cost than private universities. The flexible distance learning format allows you to study while managing home or work responsibilities. Additionally, the certificate is recognized across India for government and private sector jobs, making it a safe investment for your career growth in the mental health field.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing PGDCFT, graduates typically work as Family Counsellors, Marriage Therapists, or School Guidance Counsellors. You can find roles in psychiatric clinics, family courts, and community health centers. Many graduates also work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like Childline or various women’s welfare cells to provide emotional support and mediation services.
IGNOU PGDCFT (Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy) Highlights
The table below provides a quick overview of the essential details for the Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy. This summary helps you understand the duration, fees, and language requirements of the course.
| Programme Name | Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy |
| Programme Code | PGDCFT |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related fields |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Offering School | School of Continuing Education |
IGNOU PGDCFT Admission – Important Details
The admission process for this diploma is handled twice a year in the January and July sessions. Students must register on the Samarth portal and select their preferred Study Centre where they will attend weekend classes and practical sessions. Since the programme includes a supervised practicum, choosing a Study Centre near your residence is highly recommended. You will need to submit assignments regularly and maintain a reflective journal as part of your internal assessment before appearing for the final term-end examinations.
IGNOU PGDCFT Admission Last Date 2026
For the January session 2026, the last date for IGNOU PGDCFT Admission is typically February 28. For the July 2026 session, the deadline is usually July 31. However, the university often extends these dates by a few weeks, so you should keep checking the IGNOU Admission Portal for the latest official notification.
IGNOU PGDCFT Eligibility Criteria
To secure admission, candidates must meet the specific academic requirements set by the School of Continuing Education:
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in Psychology, Social Work, Child Development, Human Development, or Nursing.
- Candidates with a general Bachelor’s degree but having a teaching background or professional experience in social sectors may also be considered.
- There is no age bar for applying to this programme.
IGNOU PGDCFT Fees Structure 2026
The total fee for the entire programme must be paid at the time of admission. Please note that examination fees are paid separately before the exams.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Full Programme Fee | INR 16,800 |
| Registration Fee | INR 300 (Non-refundable) |
| Examination Fee | As per university norms (currently INR 200 per paper) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU PGDCFT Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password using your active email address and mobile number.
- Fill in the application form and select PGDCFT from the list of available Post Graduate Diplomas.
- Select the Regional Centre and a Study Centre near you that offers the counselling programme.
- Upload required documents including your passport photo, digital signature, and scanned copies of your degree certificates.
- Pay the admission and registration fees online via Credit/Debit card, Net Banking, or UPI.
- Save and print your application form and payment receipt for future use during identity card collection.
IGNOU PGDCFT Curriculum and Course Structure
The curriculum is designed to provide 32 credits of learning divided into theory and practical work. It covers everything from basic human development to complex clinical research methods used in family therapy.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| Theory | MCFT-001: Human Development and Family Relationships |
| Theory | MCFT-002: Mental Health and Disorders |
| Theory | MCFT-003: Counselling and Family Therapy: Basic Concepts |
| Theory | MCFT-004: Counselling and Family Therapy: Applied Aspects |
| Theory | MCFT-005: Counselling and Family Therapy: Research Methods |
| Practical | MCFTL-001: Reflective Journal (Practical) |
| Practical | MCFTL-002: Supervised Practicum |
IGNOU PGDCFT Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Continuing Education.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Prof. Neerja Chadha | neerjachadha@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572959 |
| Dr. Amiteshwar Ratra | amiteshwar@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572946 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU PGDCFT
Graduating from this programme opens up diverse career paths in the mental health sector. You can work as a Family Counsellor in private hospitals or set up your own consultation practice for marriage and relationship issues. Many schools hire graduates as Guidance Counsellors to assist students with developmental and emotional challenges. You can also find employment in government social welfare departments or international NGOs working on domestic violence and child protection.
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 PGDCFT students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU PGDCFT Admission
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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
