Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 112781A) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course is designed for international students seeking advanced training in counselling, equipping graduates with skills for professional practice in diverse settings. Deakin University, a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00113B), is located in Victoria, Australia, with the course delivered at its Melbourne Burwood Campus in Burwood, VIC. The course falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services, focusing on Counselling (090513). As an AQF Level 9 qualification, it provides a pathway to professional roles in counselling, mental health support, and community services. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have reliable, up-to-date information to make informed decisions about your study in Australia.
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The Master of Counselling (112781A) at Deakin University is a 2-year (104-week) full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. The course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks at 10 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours), providing practical experience through industry placements, internships, or clinical placements. This work-integrated learning is a key feature that prepares graduates for real-world counselling roles. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures compliance with Australian Government standards, and international students are protected under the ESOS Act. Deakin University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering quality education across diverse fields.
In the Master of Counselling, students engage with advanced theories, research methods, and practical skills relevant to counselling practice. The curriculum typically covers areas such as therapeutic communication, ethical frameworks, mental health assessment, and intervention strategies. Graduates are prepared to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups in a variety of settings including community agencies, private practice, and health services. The course emphasises evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and self-reflection, aligning with professional standards in the counselling field. As a Masters Degree (Coursework), it builds on prior undergraduate study and may require a background in psychology, social work, or a related discipline. Deakin University's program is designed to meet the growing demand for qualified counsellors in Australia and internationally.
The Master of Counselling is offered full-time over 2 years (104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — it is not a dual degree or combined with foundation studies. The course does not have a VET national code as it is a higher education program. Students should anticipate a significant time commitment, including lectures, tutorials, self-study, and the work-integrated learning component. Deakin University may offer part-time options for international students under specific visa conditions, but the standard duration assumes full-time enrolment. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500).
Tuition fees for the Master of Counselling are indicative at A$88,952 for the entire program, as per the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but students should budget for additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne vary: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–A$500, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. Always confirm current fees directly with Deakin University at their official website as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
English language proficiency is a key requirement, with an indicative IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall. Applicants typically need a recognised undergraduate degree in a related field (e.g., psychology, social work, nursing) with a minimum grade point average. Some students may need to complete pathway programs or prerequisite subjects. Deakin University may also consider relevant work experience on a case-by-case basis. It is essential to check the exact entry requirements on the Deakin University website. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity for the Student visa application. Always consult a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, requiring approximately 10 hours per week (totalling 200 hours). The work-integrated learning may involve industry placements, internships, or clinical placements in counselling settings. This practical experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision, develop professional networks, and enhance employability. The work component is integrated into the curriculum and may be scheduled across different semesters. International students must comply with visa work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The placement must be directly related to the course and approved by the institution.
The Master of Counselling is delivered at Deakin University's Melbourne Burwood Campus, located in Burwood, Victoria. Burwood is a suburb of Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population. Melbourne is home to over 40 CRICOS-registered providers and offers excellent public transport access via bus and tram services to the campus. Living in Melbourne provides international students with a multicultural environment, diverse cultural attractions, and a strong job market for part-time work. The city’s cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300. For more details on studying in Victoria, explore our state guide.
International students studying the Master of Counselling will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study, work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including access to refunds and complaint processes. For detailed visa guidance, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Counselling at Deakin University: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered providers and filter by course level, field, and city. Verify Deakin University's CRICOS registration (00113B) and confirm your eligibility. 2. Apply: Submit your application directly to Deakin University, including academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and any required documents. Note application deadlines and entry requirements. 3. Enrol: Upon acceptance, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa support, consult a registered migration agent.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong economy, diverse culture, and excellent educational infrastructure. The city hosts over 100,000 international students from across the globe, supported by a wide range of services. For counselling students, Melbourne offers numerous opportunities for internships and networking through its extensive healthcare and community services sectors. Public transport is reliable, with trams, trains, and buses connecting suburbs to the city centre. Consider factors like climate (temperate with cool winters), cost of living, and lifestyle preferences. While Melbourne is expensive relative to other Australian cities, it provides a rich student experience. Explore more about studying in Victoria.
Ready to start your journey? Check the latest fees and entry requirements on Deakin University's website, or explore more counselling courses on HeadStart Academy.
Master of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at Deakin University (Deakin). 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.