The Master of Counselling from UNE develops skills in professional counselling, research, and supervision.
Title: Master of Counselling
Provider: University of New England (UNE)
Campus locations: Online and intensive schools in Armidale, NSW
About
The 12-unit course produces highly qualified counsellors. Students learn through theoretical foundations in humanistic and existential philosophies, combined with practical training.
The program includes specialisations in general counselling, mental health practice, or placement-based training. You'll explore topics like group counselling, loss and grief, and trauma-focused approaches.
Some units require attendance at intensive schools in Armidale, including The Skilled Counsellor, Group Work: Theory and Process, Working Systemically in Therapy, and Case Conceptualisation.
Provider
The University of New England is based in Armidale, NSW, and is known for combining online study with practical training. UNE has strong expertise in supporting adult learners through flexible course delivery and specialised programs like the Master of Counselling.
Key Takeaways
- Offers three pathways: generalist counselling, mental health practice, or counselling placement.
- Practical components include 200 hours of field placement and intensive schools in Armidale.
- Accredited by the Australian Counselling Association, allowing professional registration.
- Flexible part-time study, up to six years, with three trimesters annually.
- Entry requires a bachelor’s degree or relevant professional experience.
Course Structure
The course consists of 12 units (72 credit points) and a capstone research project. Core units include foundations in research, applied counselling theories, and supervision techniques.
Students choose one of three pathways. The generalist pathway covers specialised topics like child and adolescent counselling, counselling for grief and loss, and trauma therapy. The counselling placement pathway includes 150 hours of agency-based activities and 40 hours of face-to-face counselling.
In the mental health practice pathway, students explore advanced mental health care through foundational skills, mental health strategies, and promotion techniques. The capstone project allows students to research an area of professional interest.
Refer to the course page for further details.
Why This Degree Is Worthwhile
The Master of Counselling at UNE combines theoretical depth with practical skills. It prepares students for roles in mental health, grief counselling, and trauma-focused work.
Practical requirements include a minimum of 200 hours in field placement and attendance at four intensive schools in Armidale. Benefit from hands-on learning and supervision.
Graduates are eligible for accreditation with the Australian Counselling Association, meeting professional standards and expanding career options in health and human services.
How Online Study Works
The course blends online learning with required in-person intensive schools. Students access lectures, assignments, and support through UNE’s online platform.
Four units require attendance at Armidale for intensive schools, which include workshops and practical skills development. These sessions build confidence in applying counselling theories to real-world scenarios.
Online support is available 24/7 for academic queries, essay feedback, and study resources. UNE’s approach allows students to balance study with other commitments while maintaining practical engagement.