Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 048816G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Queensland over 2 years. This course is designed for individuals seeking to advance their career in counselling, equipping them with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to support clients in various settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards, ensuring international students receive quality education. The University of Queensland is a prestigious Group of Eight university located in St Lucia, Queensland, offering world-class facilities and expert faculty. With a focus on human welfare studies, this master's program combines academic rigour with experiential learning through a mandatory work component. Whether you aim to become a professional counsellor or enhance your existing practice, this degree provides a solid foundation. Explore the details below, including fees, entry requirements, and application steps, all sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Master of Counselling is a 2-year full-time postgraduate course (AQF Level 9) that prepares students for professional practice in counselling. The course falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Counselling (090513). Graduates develop competencies in therapeutic communication, assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical practice. The program integrates theoretical learning with supervised clinical placements, ensuring students gain real-world experience. The University of Queensland, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00025B), is renowned for its research excellence and strong industry connections. This course is offered exclusively at the St Lucia campus in Brisbane, a vibrant city with a large student population and excellent public transport links. Brisbane offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around AUD 400–500, groceries about AUD 80–120, and public transport costs around AUD 50 per week. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring tuition fee safeguards and course quality.
As a Masters Degree (Coursework) in Counselling, students engage with advanced topics such as counselling theories, mental health assessment, therapeutic interventions, group counselling, and cross-cultural counselling. The curriculum emphasises evidence-based practice and reflective learning. While the exact syllabus is set by The University of Queensland, typical learning outcomes include the ability to design and implement counselling plans, evaluate client progress, and adhere to professional ethics. Students also develop research skills through a capstone project or dissertation. The program is designed for those with a prior undergraduate degree in a related field, such as psychology, social work, or human services. This level of study prepares graduates for roles in community health, private practice, education, and organisational settings.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The University of Queensland typically offers this program on-campus in full-time mode, though part-time options may be available for domestic students. International students must enrol full-time to comply with student visa conditions. The academic year includes two semesters, with intakes usually in February and July. For precise dates, refer to the university's website.
Tuition fees for the Master of Counselling are indicative at A$57,977 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$2,081, bringing the estimated total to A$60,058. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Queensland. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm with the provider before applying. Note that the above does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately AUD 600–800 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Brisbane are estimated at AUD 21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs indicative). Always budget accordingly. Visit The University of Queensland's official fee page for the most current information.
International applicants typically need an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., psychology, social work, nursing) with a GPA of at least 4.5 on a 7-point scale. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall band of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.5) or equivalent. Some applicants may need to submit a personal statement, references, or attend an interview. If you don't meet the direct entry requirements, pathway options such as a Graduate Certificate or Diploma may be available — check with The University of Queensland. Always review the specific entry criteria on the provider's website, as requirements can change.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 13 weeks of industry placement at 27 hours per week (approximately 351 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves supervised clinical placements in counselling settings such as community health centres, hospitals, or private practices. Students apply theoretical knowledge under professional supervision, developing practical counselling skills. This component is integral to the course and must be completed to graduate. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for this work type; student visa (Subclass 500) permits work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks.
The Master of Counselling is delivered at The University of Queensland's St Lucia Campus, located in St Lucia, QLD, 4067. St Lucia is a riverside suburb of Brisbane, approximately 7 km from the city centre. Brisbane is Queensland's capital, home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and ferries. Brisbane's student population exceeds 150,000, offering a vibrant multicultural environment. Living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a studio apartment around AUD 350–450. The city enjoys a subtropical climate, making it appealing for outdoor activities.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Queensland; genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC; English proficiency evidence; and health insurance (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Counselling at The University of Queensland: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Masters Degree), field (Counselling), and location (Queensland). Compare providers and check CRICOS registration. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Submit your application through The University of Queensland's online portal. Ensure you meet entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts, and any prerequisite courses). Deadlines vary; typically applications close 2–3 months before semester start. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for GTE assessment, arrange OSHC, and provide evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to start your counselling career? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to The University of Queensland today.
Master of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Queensland. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.