Master of Chaplaincy

The Master of Chaplaincy at Murdoch University in Perth supports students who want to deepen their skills and understanding in providing spiritual and emotional care within diverse communities. This course is grounded in practical and theoretical training, helping you develop the knowledge needed to offer chaplaincy services in settings like hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, the military, and other community agencies. Students learn about key religious and ethical frameworks, pastoral care, grief and trauma support, and professional boundaries.

Spanning 2 years of full-time study, the course usually follows a semester structure. To complete the degree, students undertake a set number of units of study, each carrying credit points as recognised by Australian institutions. The curriculum may include core and elective units, allowing for areas of interest or specialisation. Many chaplaincy master’s programmes in Australia include practical experience or professional placements, which can be arranged with partner organisations, so you gain supervised experience alongside your studies.

Australian qualifications at master’s level blend advanced coursework with skill-based training. As a student in the Master of Chaplaincy, you’ll build confidence in interfaith engagement, counselling skills, crisis response, and reflective practice. This degree is suited to those who have a background in religious studies, theology, education, or health and who want to work professionally as chaplains across the Australian community.

International students can refer to Murdoch’s published English proficiency requirements—an IELTS Academic of 6.0–6.5 is standard—though the exact score should always be checked on the university’s official information. Students in Australia on a Student visa may have work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream.

• Chaplain in hospitals, schools, aged care, or correctional centres
• Pastoral care worker for health services or community organisations
• Spiritual care coordinator in government or non-profit agencies
• Adviser in crisis support services
• Roles supporting intercultural or interfaith dialogue

Employers include religious and faith-based groups, health services, educational institutions, not-for-profit organisations, and the Australian Defence Force.