Doctor of Counselling (CRICOS course code 074299G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Notre Dame Australia over 3 years. This program is designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in counselling theory, research, and practice. As a Level 10 qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), it prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia, clinical supervision, and specialised counselling settings. The University of Notre Dame Australia is a CRICOS-registered private provider (CRICOS 01032F) offering this course at its Broome and Fremantle campuses in Western Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available to international students, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate this landscape by providing official CRICOS data sourced directly from the register (April 2026). All tuition and fee information is indicative and subject to change; always verify with the institution.
This Doctoral Degree falls under the field of Society and Culture (broad field 09) and Human Welfare Studies and Services (narrow field 0905), specifically Counselling (detailed field 090513). While specific syllabi vary by institution, doctoral-level counselling programs typically emphasise advanced research methodologies, therapeutic frameworks, ethics, and supervision. Graduates develop skills to design and implement original research, critically evaluate counselling interventions, and contribute to policy and professional standards. The program is suited for counsellors, psychologists, and social workers aiming for academic or high-level clinical roles.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Counselling has a duration of 3 years (156 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. As a doctoral program, it typically requires a significant research component, though this course lists no mandatory work component. Students are expected to devote full-time effort to their studies.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$146,190, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$146,190. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by The University of Notre Dame Australia. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees and any applicable scholarships, visit the provider's website. Always confirm with the institution before applying. OSHC is compulsory for student visa holders; see our OSHC guide for more.
International students typically need an overall IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) and a prior qualification at master's or honours level in a related field. Some providers require relevant professional experience or a research proposal. Foundation or pathway options may be available; check with The University of Notre Dame Australia for specific requirements. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Doctor of Counselling is delivered at two campuses of The University of Notre Dame Australia: Broome (in Broome, WA) and Fremantle (in Fremantle, WA). Broome is a regional centre in northern Western Australia with a small but growing student population. Fremantle, part of the Perth metropolitan area, offers a vibrant student lifestyle with easy public transport access to the city. Both locations provide a unique study environment combining indigenous culture and coastal living.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and showing financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student), and dependents. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Counselling), and location (WA). Compare programs and ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to The University of Notre Dame Australia: Check application deadlines, submit your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0), and any additional documents such as a research proposal or interview. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university issues a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Submit a visa application online, paying the application fee and providing the CoE, OSHC evidence, English scores, and financial documents.
A Doctoral Degree in Counselling is a significant commitment. Consider your career goals: Are you aiming for academia, clinical leadership, or private practice? The field of counselling in Australia is growing, with increasing demand for qualified professionals in mental health. Western Australia offers diverse practice settings, from remote indigenous communities (like Broome) to urban centres (Perth). Research potential supervisors and their research areas. Also factor in relocation costs and living expenses. Broome and Fremantle have different living costs: Broome’s weekly rent may be higher due to remote location, while Fremantle offers more student housing options. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality standards.
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Doctor of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Notre Dame Australia. 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.