Master's Degree Counselling Full Time

Master of Counselling

at Deakin University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

112781A

CRICOS provider code

00113B

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$88,952 total

Per year

A$44,476/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Counselling at Deakin University in Melbourne is designed to equip graduates with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills for professional counselling practice. Delivered over two years, this comprehensive programme addresses core areas of counselling, including therapeutic frameworks, mental health, ethical practice, and approaches for working with individuals, couples, and groups. Students gain insights into evidence-based interventions and contemporary counselling practices that reflect the needs of diverse populations in Australia.

The structure of the degree typically involves semesters of study, consisting of a set sequence of units that may include foundational knowledge, advanced counselling techniques, and specialised electives. Australian master's degrees are commonly structured so that each unit carries a set number of credit points, contributing towards the total required for graduation. Students also undertake significant practical components, such as supervised work placements, allowing them to connect theoretical learning with real-life client engagement in professional settings. This placement experience is especially valuable for those intending to work in counselling environments across community, education, or health sectors.

In addition to refining communication, assessment, and rapport-building skills, graduates develop key attributes in cultural responsiveness, ethical negotiation, and reflective practice. The Master of Counselling is well-suited to those seeking initial professional training in the field, as well as those wishing to extend previous allied health qualifications. The curriculum prepares students for practice in line with Australian industry standards and draws on the university's connections to local service providers, schools, and health organisations for practical training opportunities.

International students benefit from Australia's post-study work rights, including eligibility for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream and the ability to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. It is important to refer to Deakin University's official course page for the latest details on unit offerings, credit points, and professional recognition pathways.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Professional Counsellor in education, health, or community settings
Guidance Officer or Student Welfare Worker in schools or universities
Mental Health Worker in not-for-profit or government organisations
Case Manager in community health or social services
Family or Relationship Counsellor in private or public practice

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Counselling at Deakin University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$88,952 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Professional Counsellor in education, health, or community settingsGuidance Officer or Student Welfare Worker in schools or universitiesMental Health Worker in not-for-profit or government organisationsCase Manager in community health or social servicesFamily or Relationship Coun...

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