Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 079913F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 qualification falls under the field of Counselling (090513) and is designed to prepare graduates for professional practice in counselling roles. The course includes a work-integrated learning component of 17 weeks (204 hours), providing practical industry experience. With an indicative tuition fee of A$59,000 and no non-tuition fees, it represents a comprehensive investment in your career. The University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS 01595D) is a government-funded public university offering this program at its Sunshine Coast campus in Sippy Downs, Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it can enrol international students under the Student visa (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify current details directly with the university.
The Master of Counselling (CRICOS 079913F) is a postgraduate course at AQF Level 9 offered by the University of the Sunshine Coast. The program is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks) in English, with no dual qualification or foundation study components. It includes a mandatory work component of 17 weeks at 12 hours per week (approximately 204 total hours), providing real-world counselling experience. The indicative tuition fee is A$59,000, with A$0 non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$59,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. The course is delivered at the UniSC Sunshine Coast campus in Sippy Downs, QLD. All Australian institutions listed by HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act. International students should verify their eligibility for the Student visa (Subclass 500) with the Department of Home Affairs.
This course focuses on the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, specifically Counselling (090513). At the master's level, students typically develop advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in counselling frameworks, therapeutic communication, ethical practice, and client assessment. Graduates learn to work with diverse populations, apply evidence-based interventions, and reflect on their professional practice. The curriculum often covers areas such as grief and loss, trauma-informed care, family systems, and cross-cultural counselling. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with the provider, the program aims to produce competent counsellors ready for roles in community health, private practice, schools, and non-profit organisations. This CRICOS-registered course meets Australian quality standards under the ESOS Act.
The Master of Counselling is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree), and it does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Sippy Downs campus and participate in the work component. The university may offer flexible study options; contact UniSC for current details. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and this course is among the 26,433 courses available to international students from 1,556 providers (as at April 2026).
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Counselling is A$59,000, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$59,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the University of the Sunshine Coast. They are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for Student visa holders, as well as living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport) and the visa application charge. For the most current fees, visit the University of the Sunshine Coast's website at www.usc.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; this is a free resource to help you compare courses.
Entry to the Master of Counselling typically requires completion of a recognised bachelor’s degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent, often in a related field such as psychology, social work, or human services. English language proficiency is essential—an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent) is generally expected. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a selection interview. For a complete list of entry requirements and pathway options (if applicable), refer directly to the University of the Sunshine Coast. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend contacting the provider or consulting a registered migration agent for visa-related advice. All CRICOS-registered courses meet Australia's ESOS Act protections.
This course includes a mandatory work component consisting of 17 weeks of placement at 12 hours per week, totalling approximately 204 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) may take the form of industry placements, internships, or clinical placements in counselling settings. It provides students with supervised practical experience, helping them apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Placements are arranged by the university and may be in community agencies, health services, or educational institutions. The work component is an integral part of the CRICOS-registered program and contributes to graduate employability. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must ensure their work hours comply with visa conditions—48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks.
The Master of Counselling is delivered at the UniSC Sunshine Coast campus, located in Sippy Downs, Queensland (QLD). This is a suburban area approximately 10 kilometres from the Sunshine Coast city centre. The Sunshine Coast region is home to a growing student population, with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all levels. Living costs in the area are generally lower than in Brisbane or Sydney—indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from A$350 to A$450, groceries around A$80–120, and public transport costs approximately A$30–50. The campus is accessible by bus from surrounding suburbs. The Sunshine Coast offers a relaxed lifestyle with beaches, national parks, and a mild climate. International students should consider these factors when choosing a study destination. All data is from the official CRICOS register.
To study this course in Australia, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (this course is), meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is crucial to comply with visa conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including tuition fee refunds and course change provisions. For more details, see our Student visa guide.
The Sunshine Coast offers a unique study experience with a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including the University of the Sunshine Coast, the region supports a diverse student community. Living costs are moderate: estimated total monthly expenses for a single person (excluding tuition) are around A$1,500–2,000. Public transport connects campuses to major centres, and the area has a strong sense of community. However, compared to Sydney or Melbourne, public transport frequency may be lower, and internship opportunities might be fewer in specialised fields. If you value a quieter, outdoor-focused lifestyle, the Sunshine Coast could be ideal. For more location insights, see our Queensland study guide. Remember to verify CRICOS registration of all providers on the official register.
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register (or HeadStart Academy's directory) to confirm that the Master of Counselling (079913F) at University of the Sunshine Coast meets your needs. Check course level, field, and location. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the University of the Sunshine Coast's website (www.usc.edu.au) to access the application portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and any supporting materials. Note application deadlines and any prerequisite courses. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements. For visa guidance, consult a MARA agent. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and this course is covered by the ESOS Act.
Ready to take the next step? Visit University of the Sunshine Coast's official website to confirm entry requirements and apply for the Master of Counselling.
Master of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.