Master of Counselling
University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
Type of institution: University/Higher Education Institution
Level: Postgraduate
CRICOS: 00244B
The Master of Counselling will give you the knowledge and expertise to upskill to an advanced level in a number of specialist counselling areas, as well as research principles and methods. This degree is suitable for qualified professionals in counselling, psychology, mental health nursing, or social work who want to extend their professional development without being required to repeat foundational counselling training. This degree is also an entry qualification into the counselling profession. Graduates from a non-counselling background could choose the Foundations of Practice specialisation to gain valuable practical skills and study elective subjects from various specialisations. All specialisations within the Master of Counselling, with the exclusion of Advanced Entry, is accredited by the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). The Advanced Entry specialisation is recognised by the ACA as meeting their bridging requirements to meet Level 3 membership under certain conditions.
Structure
16 units: including 2 research pathway options.
Subjects
- Advanced Entry
- Child, Youth and Family Therapy
- Mental Health Practice
- Trauma Focused Practice
Standard entry requirements
- For Master of Counselling (5 qualifying specialisations) - Completion of an Australian university three-year Bachelor degree in any area (or equivalent).
- Completion of 50% the UniSQs Graduate Diploma of Counselling or equivalent.
- Provide a two-page report addressing specific Selection Criteria.
- Participate in an interview with a panel of School staff. For Master of Counselling (Advanced Entry specialisation) - Current evidence of full membership of a relevant professional body, such as the Australian Psychological Society or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia.
Recognition
The Master of Counselling is accredited by the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
Study pathways
A student successfully completing Master of Counselling may apply to the Doctor of Philosophy. Students may exit after four courses with a Graduate Certificate of Counselling. Students may exit after eight courses with a Graduate Diploma of Counselling.
Study information
| Campus | Fees | Entry | Mid year intake | Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | No |
|
Further information
Practical and/or clinical experience will be undertaken as part of the program. Students will negotiate supervised industry placement where they will have to demonstrate competency in those components of the course(s) which require application in a counselling situation. Students must have a Blue Card issued by the Commission of Children and Young People and Child Guardian in Queensland or its respective interstate equivalent, or be a registered health professional who qualifies for a professional exemption, to enrol in COU8001. These courses must be satisfactorily completed in order to graduate.
