Counselling
Discipline
Deakin's Master of Counselling will give you the tools to make a difference in people's lives. Whether you want to launch a career in counselling or develop existing skills in a related field like teaching or social work, you'll graduate ready to confidently put your knowledge into practice.
Start your career in counselling
Provide effective support to people experiencing mental health and developmental issues. Our Master of Counselling is shaped by current workforce needs, equipping you with the skills to address relationship, social, educational and other life challenges with your clients.
Choose a degree that will get you work ready
If you have a high degree of empathy and well-developed communication skills, a career in counselling could be the area for you. The Master of Counselling can equip you with the skills to provide tailored support to your clients based on individual circumstances.
Gain industry experience
Valuable placement opportunities are embedded within our masters programs. You’ll gain supervised experience supporting real clients from diverse backgrounds and ages, while collaborating with experienced mental health professionals.
Develop a broad skillset
In addition to working with clients face-to-face, you'll learn how to provide support via telehealth services and online communication tools, which are becoming increasingly important in modern counselling practice.
Study online at the #1 Victorian uni for student support
Deakin's Master of Counselling gives you the flexibility to study on your terms, with the backing of a support network that helps you succeed. Join more than 78,000 online students who have already graduated with Deakin's dedicated support and flexible learning options.
Our students have the opportunity to apply skills in real-world settings through supervised practicum placements. Graduates are prepared to hit the ground running in counselling roles, with the confidence and skills needed to make a real difference in the lives of their clients.
Course directors, Master of Counselling
Professional recognition
While accreditation isn’t required to work as a counsellor in Australia, professional recognition can expand your employment options and provide valuable access to professional development and networking opportunities.
The Master of Counselling is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
Top career opportunities in counselling
Healthcare and social assistance is Australia’s largest and fastest-growing employment sector, offering a wide range of career options in counselling. There are 4,500 new jobs projected to be created for counsellors and 28,300 for social and welfare professionals by May 2028.* Be prepared for roles in:
- youth work and school counselling
- mental health support
- trauma and grief counselling
- relationship and family counselling
- sex and sexuality support services
- career coaching and professional guidance.
Graduate with an employment advantage
Study with us to gain an advanced understanding of cutting-edge therapies and developments in the field. Graduate with the skills and experience to make a difference with a degree from Victoria’s #1 university for course satisfaction.
World-class teaching experiences
With an emphasis on teaching excellence, practical training and innovative course design, you'll gain the skills to provide high-quality counselling support.
Learn from experts
Our experienced academics bring clinical expertise to the classroom, allowing them to share real case studies with you. This practical focus ensures you receive hands-on training grounded in practice.
Support diverse clients
Our programs place an emphasis on diversity and cultural safety. This means you'll be well equipped to provide culturally responsive counselling services to clients from all backgrounds.
Study flexibly online
When you study Deakin's Master of Counselling, you will enhance your skills with a mix of online and on-campus learning at our Melbourne Burwood Campus.
Want to explore more?
What's the difference between psychology and counselling?
Do you have a passion for mental health? Find out the differences between studying psychology and counselling and the rewarding career pathways that await.
10 reasons to choose Deakin's Master of Counselling
If you’re looking for a qualification that builds strong professional identity, real clinical confidence and skills grounded in the realities of counselling practice in Australia today, Deakin’s Master of Counselling offers a distinct advantage.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
*Jobs and Skills Australia, Employment Projections May 2023–May 2028
Contact us
Got a question about studying counselling at Deakin? Our expert advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
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