Looking for a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy in Melbourne? This CRICOS-registered course (code 092969C) at The Cairnmillar Institute offers a 2-year path to becoming a qualified counsellor. As a Masters Degree (Coursework) under the Society and Culture field, this program combines advanced theory with supervised practice. The Cairnmillar Institute (CRICOS 03530E) is a private provider dedicated to training mental health professionals. In this page, we break down the course structure, fees, entry requirements, work component, and student visa essentials — all sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Whether you're planning your study pathway or comparing options, HeadStart Academy provides trusted, free resources to help you navigate Australia's international education system.
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Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy (CRICOS course code 092969C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The Cairnmillar Institute over 2 years. The Cairnmillar Institute (CRICOS 03530E) is a private provider based in Melbourne, Victoria. This course falls under the field of Counselling (090513) within Human Welfare Studies and Services. It prepares students for professional practice in counselling and psychotherapy, integrating evidence-based approaches with ethical frameworks. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian quality standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register, ensuring accuracy and trust.
At the Masters level, counselling programs typically cover advanced therapeutic models, assessment techniques, ethical practice, and research methods. Students develop skills in client-centered care, group facilitation, and cultural competence. While specific subjects are determined by the provider, the curriculum includes supervised clinical placements to build real-world competence. Field of Education 090513 (Counselling) is part of broader human welfare studies, focusing on supporting individuals through personal and social challenges. Graduates emerge with the knowledge to work in diverse settings such as community health, private practice, or educational institutions.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or combined degree. Students are expected to study full-time at the Hawthorn East campus. The program includes both coursework and the compulsory work component, ensuring a balanced learning experience.
Tuition is A$60,984 for the entire course. There are no listed non-tuition fees, making the estimated total A$60,984. Important: This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by The Cairnmillar Institute. Always confirm current fees on their official website (cairnmillar.edu.au). Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$1,500–A$2,500 per month for rent, food, and transport.
Applicants typically need a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., psychology, social work, or counselling). English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may require relevant work experience, a personal statement, or an interview. For specific entry criteria, contact The Cairnmillar Institute. If you do not meet direct entry, pathway options (such as a graduate certificate) may be available — check with the provider.
Yes, this course includes a work-integrated learning component: 40 weeks, 7.5 hours per week, totaling approximately 300 hours. This typically involves a supervised clinical placement or internship where students apply counselling techniques under professional guidance. Such placements are essential for developing practical skills and meeting accreditation requirements. The provider arranges placements in relevant settings, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in real-world environments.
The course is delivered at The Cairnmillar Institute in Hawthorn East, Victoria. Hawthorn East is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km from the city centre. It is well-served by public transport, including tram routes along Burwood Road and Riversdale Road, and nearby train stations (e.g., Camberwell and Glenferrie). Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living in Melbourne offers a diverse cultural scene, reliable public transport, and access to healthcare. Typical weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hawthorn East ranges from A$350–A$550, with groceries and transport adding about A$200–A$300 per week.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks; compulsory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC); satisfactory progress; and demonstration of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. You must also provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights as a student. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Cairnmillar Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters), field (Counselling), and city (Melbourne). Compare providers and courses using official CRICOS data. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Ensure you meet entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts, etc.). Check application deadlines on The Cairnmillar Institute website and submit your application through their portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for the student visa online. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare financial documents.
Start your journey to study counselling in Melbourne today. Explore more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and apply directly to The Cairnmillar Institute.
Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Cairnmillar Institute. 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.