IGNOU PGDCFT Admission 2026: The Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy (PGDCFT) is a professional program offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), a central university established by the Government of India in 1985. The program is offered through the School of Social Work (SOSW) and all courses are approved by the UGC. Each distance learning courses are approved by the DEB.
Indira Gandhi National Open University has started the admission process for their PGDCFT course into the January 2026 session and last date to apply is 31 January 2026 students can visit the official portal of the university @ignou.ac.in. Selection for the PGDCFT program is based on eligibility criteria, and no entrance examination is conducted for IGNOU admission. To fill out the online application form or to get detailed information students have to visit the official website of the IGNOU.
IGNOU PGDCFT Course Highlights Table
| Particulars | Details |
| Course Name | Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy |
| Course Code | PGDCFT |
| Conducting Body | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) |
| Course Level | Postgraduate Diploma |
| Duration | Minimum 1 Year – Maximum 3 Years |
| Mode of Study | Distance / Open Learning |
| Eligibility | Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Course Fee | INR 18,000 |
| Admission Process | Merit-based |
| Course Objective | To develop professional skills in counselling, family therapy, and mental health support |
| Target Audience | Counsellors, Teachers, Social Workers, Psychologists, NGOs |
| Career Scope | Counsellor, Family Therapist, School Counsellor, NGO Worker |
| Study Material | Printed + Digital (eGyanKosh) |
| Examination Mode | Term-End Examination (TEE) |
About the IGNOU PGDCFT Course Details
IGNOU PGDCFT (Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy) give students a strong understanding of psychology and human behaviour by exploring a wide range of psychological ideas, methods and practical skills. It helps students understand how psychology is applied in real-life situations and different work environments. In today’s time, there is a growing demand for psychology professionals in areas such as schools, colleges, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, offices and industries, across both government and private sectors.
Psychology is also expanding into new and modern fields like sports psychology, forensic psychology, military and police services, aviation and environmental studies. Keeping these career opportunities in mind and in line with IGNOU’s goal of providing quality education at an affordable cost, this programme offers a flexible and inclusive learning structure.
IGNOU PGDCFT Admission 2026
Applicants who are interested in pursuing the IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy (PGDCFT) can apply for admission under the January 2026 session. The application process is conducted completely online through IGNOU’s official admission portal @ignou.ac.in, where candidates are required to fill in their details and pay the prescribed application fee. IGNOU PGDCFT Admission last date is 31 January 2026 in January AY, so candidates are advised to complete the process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
The total course fee for the PGDCFT programme is expected to be around INR 18,000, which covers study materials and practical components of the course. Admission is granted on a merit basis, taking into account the marks obtained in the qualifying examination. IGNOU does not conduct any entrance test, nor does it consider scores from state or national-level examinations for this diploma.
IGNOU PGDCFT Course Eligibility Criteria
Admission to the IGNOU PGDCFT (Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy) program is carried out as per the guidelines mentioned in the official admission prospectus released by the university. IGNOU does not conduct any entrance examination for this diploma program, and selection is done purely on the basis of eligibility conditions.
Applicants are advised to regularly check the official IGNOU web portal for accurate information related to admission schedules, guidelines and updates. Some of the key eligibility points are given below:
- Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a UGC-recognized university or institution.
- A minimum of 45% marks in the qualifying graduation examination is generally required (as per the prospectus norms).
- There is no upper age limit and candidates from all age groups are eligible to apply.
IGNOU PGDCFT Application Process 2026
- Step 1: Visit the official IGNOU website and go to the online admission portal @ignou.ac.in.
- Step 2: Select the PGDCFT program from the list.
- Step 3: Click on “New Registration” if you are applying for the first time and create an account with your email and mobile number.
- Step 4: Check your email and SMS for the login credentials sent by IGNOU.
- Step 5: Log in to your account using the application number and password.
- Step 6: Complete the application form by entering your personal, academic and contact details.
- Step 7: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature and necessary documents as per the instructions.
- Step 8: Pay the application fee online using available payment methods like UPI, debit/credit card, net banking or wallet.
- Step 9: Review all the information carefully and make corrections if needed.
- Step 10: Submit the form and download the acknowledgement/confirmation receipt for your records.
Required Documents
- Students passport size photograph
- Scanned signature
- DOB certificate
- 10th certificate
- 12th certificate
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Provisional certificate
- Migration certificate
- Caste certificate (if required)
- Domicile certificate (if required)
IGNOU PGDCFT Course Syllabus
| Course Code | Course Name |
| MCFT 1 | Human Development and Family Relationships |
| MCFTL 1 | Human Development and Family Relationships – Supervised Practicum |
| MCFT 2 | Mental Health and Disorders |
| MCFTL 2 | Mental Health and Disorders – Supervised Practicum |
| MCFT 3 | Counselling and Family Therapy: Basic Concepts and Theoretical Perspectives |
| MCFTL 3 | Counselling and Family Therapy: Basic Concepts and Theoretical Perspectives – Supervised Practicum |
| MCFT 4 | Counselling and Family Therapy: Applied Aspects |
| MCFTL 4 | Counselling and Family Therapy: Applied Aspects – Supervised Practicum |
| MCFT 5 | Counselling and Family Therapy: Research Methods and Statistics |
| MCFTL 5 | Counselling and Family Therapy: Research Methods and Statistics – Supervised Practicum |
| MCFTL 8 | Reflective Journal |
Why Choose IGNOU PGDCFT Course?
- Industry-Focused Curriculum: The PGDCFT course is designed to match current cyber forensics and information security needs, helping students learn skills that are in demand in today’s digital world.
- Recognized and Trusted University: IGNOU is a UGC-recognized central university, and the PGDCFT qualification is accepted for jobs and higher studies across government and private sectors.
- Flexible Learning Mode: The program is offered through open and distance learning, allowing students to study at their own pace while managing work or other responsibilities.
- Career-Oriented Program: This course prepares learners for roles in cyber crime investigation, digital security and forensic analysis, opening doors to multiple career paths.
- Affordable Education: IGNOU offers the PGDCFT course at a reasonable fee, making professional education accessible to a wide range of candidates.
- Useful for Working Professionals: The program is ideal for IT professionals, law enforcement personnel, and graduates who want to upgrade their skills in cyber security and forensics.
- Practical Knowledge Exposure: Students gain both theoretical understanding and practical insights into cyber forensics tools, techniques and legal aspects.
Career Opportunities After Completing IGNOU PGDCFT Course
After completing the Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy (PGDCFT), candidates can explore a wide range of career opportunities in the mental health and social welfare sector. Graduates may work as Counsellors, Family Therapy Assistants, Mental Health Support Workers, Rehabilitation Counsellors, School Counsellors (with required norms) and Community Welfare Officers.
Employment opportunities are available in schools, colleges, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, NGOs, community health centres, child guidance clinics and private counselling centres. Some graduates also choose to work independently as freelance counsellors or assist senior psychologists and therapists.
The starting salary generally ranges between INR 2.5 lakh to INR 4.5 lakh per year, depending on the organisation, location, and experience. With practical exposure, certifications, or higher studies in psychology or counselling, candidates can move into senior counselling roles with better growth and income prospects.
Jobs After Completing IGNOU PGCDFT Course
| Job Role | Average Salary (Per Month) |
| Counsellor | INR 25,000 – INR 50,000 |
| Family Therapist | INR 30,000 – INR 60,000 |
| School Counsellor | INR 25,000 – INR 45,000 |
| Clinical Counsellor | INR 30,000 – INR 70,000 |
| NGO Counsellor | INR 20,000 – INR 40,000 |
| Rehabilitation Counsellor | INR 30,000 – INR 55,000 |
| Mental Health Support Worker | INR 25,000 – INR 45,000 |
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