Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 056251G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program is designed for those seeking to become professional counsellors in Australia and internationally. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), this course provides international students with a high-quality education in human welfare studies and services, specifically counselling (field 090513). Murdoch University, a government-owned institution with CRICOS code 00125J, offers this program at its main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student welfare under the ESOS Act. Students can expect a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical work-integrated learning, including a 36-week industry placement. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. This page provides detailed information about fees, entry requirements, and the student visa process so you can make an informed decision about studying counselling in Australia.
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Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 056251G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services (090513 - Counselling). The course is designed to equip students with advanced skills in therapeutic communication, assessment, and intervention strategies. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and Australian quality standards. The course is conducted entirely in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. A key feature is the substantial work component: 36 weeks of industry placement at 14.2 hours per week, totalling approximately 510 hours. This work-integrated learning provides real-world experience in counselling settings, supervised by qualified professionals. Graduates are prepared for roles in community services, mental health, private practice, and organisational counselling. Murdoch University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in health and social sciences.
As a Masters Degree (Coursework) in the field of Counselling, students engage with advanced theoretical frameworks and practical skills essential for professional counselling practice. The curriculum typically covers core areas such as counselling theories, ethical practice, assessment and diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, group work, and cross-cultural counselling. Students also develop research skills and critical analysis relevant to human welfare studies. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific syllabi, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate competence in applying evidence-based counselling models, conducting client assessments, and formulating treatment plans. The program emphasises experiential learning through role-plays, case studies, and the mandatory industry placement. This combination of theory and practice ensures graduates are job-ready and eligible for professional registration with counselling bodies in Australia. The field of Human Welfare Studies and Services is broad, but this course specialises in counselling, addressing mental health and wellbeing across diverse populations. International students benefit from Australia's multicultural environment, gaining skills to work with clients from various backgrounds.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Counselling has a duration of 2 years, or 104 weeks. The course is delivered in English, the primary language of instruction at Murdoch University. This is a single qualification, meaning it does not lead to a dual degree or combined award. There is no foundation studies component; students are expected to meet the entry requirements directly. The study mode is typically full-time on-campus at the Murdoch campus in Western Australia. While some components may involve online learning or flexible delivery, the core structure is face-to-face to facilitate practical skills development. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The 104-week duration aligns with the typical length of AQF Level 9 programs in Australia. Students should plan for 2 academic years of study, which may include term breaks and holiday periods. Murdoch University's academic calendar generally includes two main semesters and optional summer terms.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Counselling is A$74,160 for the full 2-year program, as recorded on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) amount to A$730. The estimated total cost is A$74,890. Please note that these fees are indicative only and set by Murdoch University (Murdoch). They are subject to change, so always confirm current fees on the university's official website. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For example, OSHC for a single student for 2 years typically costs between A$1,000 and A$2,000. Living costs in Perth, Western Australia, are around A$400–500 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. The student visa (Subclass 500) application fee is A$710 (as of 2024, subject to change). Budget planning should account for these extras. Murdoch University's fees page can be accessed at www.murdoch.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the official CRICOS register to help you compare costs across providers.
Entry requirements for the Master of Counselling are set by Murdoch University. As a general guide, for AQF Level 9 programs, applicants typically need a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent, often in a related field such as psychology, social work, or human services. Some universities may require relevant work experience. English language proficiency is essential; the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band less than 6.5 or 7.0, depending on the component. Other tests like TOEFL or PTE Academic are also accepted. Applicants should check Murdoch University's specific prerequisites, as some courses may have additional criteria such as a personal statement, interview, or referee reports. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry; consult the provider for details. Always verify entry requirements with the institution, as they can change. HeadStart Academy does not offer migration advice; for visa eligibility, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. Meeting the academic and English requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 36 weeks of industry placement at 14.2 hours per week, totalling approximately 510 hours. This work-integrated learning is a structured part of the program, providing supervised practical experience in counselling settings. Students may be placed in community health centres, hospitals, schools, or private practices, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge under professional guidance. The placement is designed to develop competencies in client assessment, intervention, and ethical practice. It also helps students build professional networks and gain references for future employment. International students should note that this placement counts towards the course hours and is considered part of their study load. During the placement, student work rights under the Student visa (Subclass 500) allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, but placement hours typically count as study rather than work for visa purposes. Always check with the provider and Department of Home Affairs for specific conditions. This real-world experience is invaluable for meeting professional registration requirements after graduation.
The Master of Counselling is delivered at Murdoch University (Murdoch) campus located in Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth is home to over 2 million people and has a vibrant student population from around the world. The Murdoch campus is well-connected by public transport, with bus routes and the Murdoch train station nearby. Perth offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–500, groceries A$80–120, and public transport costs A$50–70. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in Perth, offering thousands of courses across all study levels. The city's pleasant climate and outdoor lifestyle make it a popular study destination. Students at Murdoch University benefit from modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. The campus is located approximately 15 km south of Perth's central business district, accessible by train and bus. If you are considering studying in Western Australia, this course offers a high-quality education in a supportive environment.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, with unlimited work during scheduled holidays. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Murdoch University. You also need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and health cover, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The current visa application charge is A$710 (subject to change). Living costs for a single student are estimated at A$21,041 per year (2024 figures). You must also meet health and character requirements. The ESOS Act protects your rights, ensuring quality education and consumer protections. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for specific visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. Always apply for your visa well in advance and keep your CoE and OSHC valid throughout your studies.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Counselling at Murdoch University: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare Australian universities and courses. Filter by study level (Masters Degree), field (Counselling), and location (Western Australia). Confirm that Murdoch University (CRICOS 00125J) is registered to deliver this course (CRICOS 056251G). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Murdoch University's website at www.murdoch.edu.au. Check the specific entry requirements, including English language test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall) and prior qualifications. Submit your application online with required documents (transcripts, references, etc.). Pay attention to application deadlines – typically semester-based. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, Murdoch University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include your CoE, OSHC confirmation, proof of funds, and GTE statement. Await a decision before travelling to Australia.
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Master of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.