Program Overview

Overview

The Master of Counselling is a 2-year full-time program designed for individuals with an approved degree in social work, psychology, human services, nursing, or a related field who want to gain professional counselling qualifications. The program focuses on integrative approaches to counselling and applied psychotherapy, preparing students to support individuals effectively and respectfully.

Program Details

• The program is taught in conjunction with UQ’s School of Psychology and is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia.
• Students will study courses that develop both professional counselling skills and understanding of the scientific foundations of the field.
• In the second year, students will undertake more than 360 hours of supervised practical placement in government, community, private agencies, or UQ’s on-campus counselling services.

Career Possibilities

• Crisis counsellor
• Grief counsellor
• Drug and alcohol counsellor
• Relationship counsellor
• Rehabilitation counsellor
• Child and youth counsellor
• Sexual assault counsellor
• Student counsellor
• Family counsellor
• Therapeutic counsellor

Entry Requirements

• A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
• Applicants are required to submit a recorded interview
• Entry is competitive, with a limited intake
• Applicants who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander who meet the minimum entry requirements for this program will be offered a place

Fees and Scholarships

• Indicative annual fee: $9,540 (2026)
• International students: AUD $45,792 (2026)
• Scholarships available

How to Apply

• Applying online: All international applications should be submitted to UQ
• Program code: 5333
• Important dates: The closing date for this program is August 1 of the previous year for domestic students and November 30 of the previous year for international students

Additional Application Information

• Video Assessment: Applicants are required to submit a recorded oral presentation
• Personal Statement: Applicants must download and complete the Personal Statement form from the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work web page
• Other requirements: Prior to applying, applicants should ensure they will be able to meet placement requirements outlined on the HABS Placement website

English Language Requirements

• IELTS overall 7; reading 7; writing 7; speaking 7; listening 7
• TOEFL iBT (including Paper Edition) - Overall 100, listening 25, reading 25, writing 27, speaking 23
• PTE Academic - Overall 72, sub bands minimum 72
• CES - Overall 185, All sub bands minimum 185

Inherent Requirements

• To complete this degree, students have to meet its inherent requirements by demonstrating essential skills and attributes
• Read the inherent requirements before applying

Student Visas

• International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Master of Counselling are eligible to apply for an Australian student visa (subclass 500)