Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 118888H) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Edith Cowan University over 2 years. This program is designed for students who want to develop advanced skills in counselling and psychotherapy. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00279B), Edith Cowan University is authorised to enrol international students. This page provides detailed information about the course, including fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, and student visa considerations. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that uses official CRICOS data as at April 2026 to help you compare courses and plan your study in Australia. Always verify current fees and entry requirements with the institution. The Australian Government's ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student.
Master of Counselling (CRICOS course code 118888H) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Edith Cowan University over 2 years (104 weeks). The course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Counselling (090513). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies option. The language of instruction is English. This program is designed for graduates who wish to become professional counsellors, working in settings such as community health, private practice, schools, or organisations. The course includes a mandatory work component of 15 weeks (225 hours), providing practical industry experience. Edith Cowan University is a government-funded public university based in Western Australia, with its main campus in Joondalup. All CRICOS-registered providers must meet the ESOS Act requirements, ensuring quality education and student support.
The Master of Counselling focuses on advanced theoretical and practical skills in counselling. Students typically study core areas such as counselling theories, therapeutic techniques, ethics, and professional practice. Graduates develop competencies in client assessment, intervention planning, and reflective practice. The curriculum integrates evidence-based approaches to address diverse client needs. While specific units vary, the course aims to produce competent professionals who can work effectively across a range of counselling contexts. As this is a masters level course (AQF Level 9), students are expected to engage in independent research, critical analysis, and applied learning. The work-integrated learning component allows students to apply theory in real-world settings under supervision. Prospective students should review the full curriculum on the provider's website to ensure alignment with their career goals.
The Master of Counselling is a 2-year program, specified as 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. This duration reflects the standard full-time study load for a masters degree coursework program. The course is delivered in English, the official language of instruction. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies option linked to this CRICOS course. Students are expected to attend classes at the Joondalup campus. The course structure may include a mix of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and supervised clinical placements. Part-time study options may be available for domestic students, but international students must generally maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions. Always confirm the exact delivery mode and timetable with Edith Cowan University.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Counselling is A$78,000 for the full program. There are no mandatory non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register (A$0). Therefore, the estimated total course fee is A$78,000. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students in Australia typically need A$21,041 per year for living costs (as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines) plus OSHC at approximately A$500–A$600 per year. Indicative weekly rent in Perth is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$50–$70. These are estimates only. Fees are set by the provider and may change; always check the Edith Cowan University website for current fees. HeadStart Academy provides indicative fees from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Entry requirements for the Master of Counselling typically include an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent English test). Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., psychology, social work, or human services). Some programs may require relevant work experience or a portfolio. It is essential to review the specific entry requirements on the Edith Cowan University website or contact their admissions office. If you do not meet the English language requirement, many providers offer foundation or pathway programs. However, no foundation studies are linked to this particular CRICOS course. Always verify the exact criteria, as they can change. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; consult the provider or a registered migration agent for advice.
The Master of Counselling includes a mandatory work component of 15 weeks, with 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 225 hours. This work-integrated learning is typically a clinical placement or internship in a counselling setting. Students gain supervised practical experience, working with clients under the guidance of qualified professionals. This component is designed to bridge theory and practice, preparing graduates for professional roles. Placement arrangements are coordinated by the university, but students may need to meet certain prerequisites (e.g., clearances or health checks). The work component is a required part of the course and cannot be waived. International students should ensure their student visa allows for placement hours; the 48-hour per fortnight work limit during term generally does not apply to mandatory placements that are part of the course. However, confirm with the provider.
The Master of Counselling is delivered at Edith Cowan University's Joondalup Campus in Joondalup, Western Australia. Joondalup is a northern suburb of Perth, approximately 30 km from the Perth CBD. The campus is accessible via public transport, including the Joondalup railway line and bus services. Perth has a large international student community, with over 80 CRICOS-registered providers in the city. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, but still require careful budgeting. The Joondalup area offers a range of accommodation, shopping, and recreational options. Students should consider factors such as climate, lifestyle, and proximity to placement sites when choosing where to live. For more information on studying in Western Australia, see our dedicated state guide.
International students enrolled in the Master of Counselling must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. To apply, you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, showing you intend to stay temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. You must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed information. Remember that student visas are processed by the Australian Government; HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Western Australia offers a unique environment for studying counselling. Perth, the state capital, has a growing demand for mental health professionals. The region's multicultural population provides diverse clinical experiences. The Joondalup campus is well-connected, and the university has strong industry links. Living costs are moderate compared to eastern capitals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious students. Additionally, Western Australia has a range of CRICOS-registered providers offering counselling courses at various levels. Studying in WA allows you to enjoy a high quality of life, with sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. However, consider that the state's distance from other parts of Australia may affect travel costs and opportunities for networking. Overall, WA is a solid choice for counselling studies.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Counselling at Edith Cowan University. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to compare counselling courses across different institutions. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (Edith Cowan University is 00279B). Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Check entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications, documents) and application deadlines. Submit your application through the provider's online portal. You may need to provide transcripts, a personal statement, and references. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via ImmiAccount. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview. HeadStart Academy is here to guide you through the research phase, but we do not process applications.
Ready to start your counselling career? Research providers using HeadStart Academy, then apply directly to Edith Cowan University.
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Master of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan University. 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.