Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy

Postgraduate | 2026

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Mode
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
2 year(s) full-time
Program code
Program code
MACOP
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Study as
Full-time
Fees
2026 indicative annual fees
2026 indicative annual fees
Published fees are for international students starting in 2026 and include the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). Fees are based on the total number of units studied in this program on a full-time annual basis. Adelaide University also accepts applications for programs commencing after the advertised year. Tuition fees for these later years are likely to be higher.
$46,700
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 7.0 IELTS Reading 7.0 IELTS Listening 7.0 IELTS Speaking 7.0 IELTS Writing 7.0 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS Code icon
CRICOS code
115903E
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

  • A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; AND
  • Undertake the Casper Situational Judgement Test (CSJT); AND
  • Attend an interview, if invited.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 7.0
  • IELTS Reading 7.0
  • IELTS Listening 7.0
  • IELTS Speaking 7.0
  • IELTS Writing 7.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy?

Support clients through emotional, mental and relational difficulties.

Counselling is a rewarding career choice for anyone who wants to pursue personal growth and collaboratively transform the lives of others. This is a career that requires empathy, patience and exceptional interpersonal skills. If you possess these qualities and are motivated to support others, our Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy is for you.  

Help people navigate mental health challenges like anxiety, trauma or depression. Gain competence in trauma recovery, empowering survivors of abuse and interpersonal violence. Develop the skills to not only listen, but bring about transformation in line with client goals.

program overview

Overview

This degree supports you to become a clinically proficient counsellor with a strong foundation in ethical and evidence based clinical competencies. You’ll explore contemporary theories and therapeutic approaches, learning to take a holistic approach to emotional, mental and relational challenges. You’ll build practical skills through hands-on experiential learning, including simulated scenarios with actors representing clients.   

Develop cultural sensitivity to work safely and effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. Strengthen your interpersonal and active listening skills, learning to build empathy and establish trust. Find out how to guide conversations and facilitate self-exploration. Across the degree, you’ll also gain unique insights into your own life and a deep understanding of your own personal growth. 

What you'll learn

Adelaide University’s Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy will shape you into an ethically aware, research-informed and clinically effective counsellor.  

Learn from academics with extensive professional counselling experience and tailor your studies to your career aspirations with the choice of three specialisations – Clinical Practice, Clinical Trauma Practice or Research.  

In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation with core courses in areas such as: 

  • Attachment processes in the therapeutic relationship 
  • Counselling skills 1 & 2 
  • Counselling and psychotherapy theories 
  • Mindfulness-based counselling applications 
  • Nature of grief 
  • Cognitive behaviour therapy 
  • Ethics in the workplace. 

In second year, your courses and electives will be aligned to your chosen specialisation. For those who focus on Clinical Practice or Clinical Trauma Practice, hands-on counselling placements will provide you with invaluable, supervised experience. If you choose the Research specialisation, you’ll complete a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. 

This degree is only offered in a face-to-face study mode, with on-campus attendance required to ensure you receive the full benefit of face-to-face learning and interactions.  

If you choose to undertake either of the clinical practice specialisations, you’ll spend up to two days each week in counselling placements. These will immerse you in real-world counselling environments and enable you to counsel real clients under supervision. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

  • 42 units for all Core courses, and
  • 36 to 42 units for Discipline courses, and
  • 12 to 18 units for Electives

Complete 42 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Counselling Skills 1
Course code
PUBH5000
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Ethics in the Counselling Workplace
Course code
PUBH5001
Units
6
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Course name
Attachment Processes in the Therapeutic Relationship
Course code
PUBH5002
Units
6
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Course name
Counselling and Psychotherapy Theories
Course code
PUBH5003
Units
6
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Course name
Counselling Skills 2
Course code
PUBH5004
Units
6
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Course name
Nature of Grief
Course code
PUBH5006
Units
6
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Course name
Mindfulness-based Counselling Applications
Course code
PUBH5008
Units
6

Complete 36 to 42 units for either of the following:

  • 42 units for all Research, or
  • 36 units for all Clinical practice

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Overview of Mental Health
Course code
PUBH5005
Units
6
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Course name
Qualitative Research Methods In Health
Course code
PUBH5013
Units
6
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Course name
Research Design and Development
Course code
HLTH6002
Units
6
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Course name
Dissertation Part 1
Course code
PUBH6018
Units
0
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Course name
Dissertation Part 2
Course code
PUBH6019
Units
24

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Trauma Informed Practice
Course code
SOWK4003
Units
6
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Course name
Overview of Mental Health
Course code
PUBH5005
Units
6
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Course name
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Course code
PUBH6001
Units
6
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Course name
Narrative Approaches to Counselling
Course code
PUBH6002
Units
6
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Course name
Counselling Placement IA
Course code
PUBH6901
Units
0
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Course name
Counselling Placement IB
Course code
PUBH6902
Units
12

Complete 12 to 18 units comprising:

  • 12 to 18 units from Program electives

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Public Health Evaluation and Economics
Course code
PUBH5015
Units
6
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Course name
Emotion Focused Therapy
Course code
PUBH6000
Units
6
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Course name
Expressive Therapies: Creative Arts in Counselling
Course code
PUBH6004
Units
6
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Course name
Counselling of Children and Adolescents
Course code
PUBH6005
Units
6
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Course name
Trauma-informed counselling for CALD and Indigenous populations
Course code
PUBH6006
Units
6

How to apply

Entry into this degree is competitive, with a specific application process and requirements. This process differs for Australian and international applicants, so please make sure you are viewing the correct information. 

australia

You are considered an Australian applicant if you are:

  • an Australian citizen,
  • an Australian Permanent Resident (visa status),
  • a New Zealand citizen, or
  • an Australian Permanent Humanitarian Visa holder.
Checklist

You are considered an international applicant if you are:

  • an Australian Temporary Resident (visa status),
  • a New Zealand Permanent Resident (visa status), or
  • a Resident/Citizen of any other country.

 

Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy admission guide for international applicants

Before applying for the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy please review the application process outlined below. Failure to follow this advice will not be grounds for special consideration. 


To be eligible for a place this degree, you must meet all admission criteria, including successfully completing the prerequisites and meeting the minimum entry requirements: 

  • A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

If your Bachelor degree or equivalent is not completed, the academic record must show that you are in your final semester of a Bachelor level degree or equivalent. Final grades and proof of completion will be required before program commencement.

Additional Entry Requirements:
  • Undertake a Casper Situational Judgement Test with the results provided two weeks before the application closing date.
  • Attend an interview if invited.

In addition, you need to be aware of the Inherent Requirements before submitting your application. These competencies and inherent requirements are outlined by the professional accrediting bodies: Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

Students who undertake clinical placements or research projects involving children or people who are ill, elderly, or vulnerable are required to demonstrate clearance by producing a criminal history check, obtained through the Department for Communities and Social Inclusion (DSCI). You will learn more about these requirements during orientation. Please do not submit these checks as part of your admissions documentation.

International students who speak English as an additional language must meet the minimum English language entry requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.  

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic Test is the preferred English language proficiency qualification, but the University may accept other evidence of proficiency in English in individual cases. All submitted test results must be from the one sitting.  

Note: International students who successfully complete an Australian Year 12 qualification with a passing grade (or above) in a recognised English as a Second Language or English language subject will automatically meet the English language entry requirements.   

View entry requirements for more information. 

There are two application rounds for the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy each year, in September and November.

Due to visa processing times, international applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for the September round. Interviews for the September round are conducted in September, and interviews for the November round are conducted in December.

The Casper is an online, open-response test administered by Acuity Insights that takes 65-85 minutes to complete. It presents real-world scenarios and asks how you would respond – and why. It assesses not just your academic ability but also the personal and professional qualities essential for success in people-centred professions. All applicants must register and take the Casper test as part of the application process. 

Test dates are available each month and can be viewed on the Acuity Insights dates and times page. For the September round, you may take the test in the available test dates from April – August. For the November round, you may select any test date available.

It will normally take two weeks after each test date for the results to be finalised by Acuity Insights. This will ensure Acuity Insights has time to process and supply your results to Adelaide University before application close. Your results will be provided directly to Adelaide University.

Register for your test at least three days before your preferred test date to allow time to perform a system requirements check and take the sample test in your account. Last-minute bookings are not recommended. See key dates

All international applicants to the Adelaide University Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy program – including those already studying in Australia – must apply via the International Application System. If you are applying through an Education Agent, they will apply on your behalf. 

Applications must be submitted before the International Application System closes. Please refer to the key dates for details. 

If you are applying through an Education Agent, they are responsible for ensuring your application is complete and all required documents are submitted on time. Missing preferences or incorrect documentation will not be grounds for appeal. 

Invitations to attend an interview will be extended based on your performance on the Casper. 

In September or November (depending on which round you apply for) you will receive an email from Adelaide University. This email will be sent to the email address provided in the International Application System. See key dates for more information.   

 If you are not invited for an interview, your application to the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy will not progress and you are encouraged to action your back-up plans. 

If you are eligible for an interview, you will be prompted to choose an interview timeslot from the booking calendar. Timeslots will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Please ensure you enter correct details (including your name, date of birth, etc.) when booking your interview.  

All interviews are conducted via Zoom. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are available during the nominated times, as interviews will not be conducted outside the scheduled dates. 

You can cancel and reschedule your interview in the booking calendar while the booking system is open. Requests for interviews outside of available options will not be accommodated. Once the booking system is closed, any requests to be reschedule will not be considered.

If you experience any issues with accessing the booking system, please contact uoaapplications@adelaide.edu.au straight away, while the booking system is still open. Ensure you include all relevant information, including your full name, summary of the issue, and relevant screenshots and/or supporting documentation. 

You should receive a booking confirmation and Zoom link within 24 hours of booking. If you have not received the booking confirmation or your Zoom link, please check your spam folder before contacting the above email. We will not be able to provide this information during the interview period.  

All interview timeslots will be scheduled in Adelaide time. It is important that you are aware of any time differences from your location to the time zone shown in the booking confirmation. Arriving late due to a time zone miscalculation or other reasons is not grounds for rescheduling or appeal. If you arrive late for your interview, your application will not progress further.  

Requests to reschedule due to medical or compassionate circumstances can be made to uoaapplications@adelaide.edu.au for consideration within 24 hours of the original interview. Supporting documentation is required. Requests on behalf of an applicant will not be considered. 

If a request to reschedule is approved, applicants will be rescheduled into any available timeslot within the scheduled interview period only. Once an interview has been rescheduled, no further rescheduling will be approved.  

Only those who are invited to book and subsequently attend their interview will remain in consideration for an offer into the degree. 

Please note: All notification emails are sent to the email address listed on your application. Adelaide University cannot be held responsible if your email provider filters the University’s emails into spam, junk or other folders. Check your email settings to ensure you will receive University emails. If you unsubscribe from University emails, or your email address is invalid, Adelaide University cannot be held responsible. Appeals for late bookings due to email notification issues will not be considered. 

Please allow up to one hour to complete the process which includes registration and an optional exit survey.

The interview duration is around 15 minutes.

Applicants will be interviewed by at least two interviewers who hold qualifications in the relevant area of counselling and/or psychotherapeutic practice.

Preparing for the interview  

When you book your interview, you will receive information about the interview process, including your obligations. These include ensuring that you are in a private location, not communicating in any way with another person during the interview and not taking or accessing any form of notes (physical or electronic) during the interview.  Additionally, you will not be permitted to use generative Artificial Intelligence tools for any aspect of the interview process.

If you breach any of the interview conditions, your interview may be cancelled, and you will be ineligible for an offer into the degree.  

You are encouraged to prepare for the interview but are discouraged from reciting rehearsed responses. ‘Rehearsed’ replies, rather than ‘natural’ responses, can diminish your overall performance.  

The interviews are reviewed after each cycle and the content and conduct of interviews may change from one year to the next. Adelaide University does not endorse any commercially available interview preparation courses.  

Ranking for offers is based on a combination of scores from these two components:

  • Interview performance 
  • Casper Situational Judgement Test (CSJT). 

Offers to successful applicants will be made via our International Application System.

If you applied through an agent, your offer will be forwarded to the agent’s email address submitted in your application. 

To accept your offer, you must return the required acceptance payment and documents before the acceptance closing dates specified in your offer letter.

Adelaide University reserves the right to make offers outside of the advertised offer rounds, and to conduct additional interview rounds if required. Offers will continue to be released until all places are filled, which may extend until week four of the first semester. Feedback on your performance and overall ranking will not be released by the University. Information regarding applicants and their applications is confidential and will not be released to an advocate of the applicant, whether family or friends. Appeals on behalf of an applicant will not be considered.  

To secure your place in the Adelaide Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy program, you must enrol in all first-year courses by the deadline stated in your offer letter. Information regarding enrolment will be provided once offers are made. 


Inherent requirements are the fundamental aspects of a degree that must be met by all students. They are the abilities, knowledge and skills you will need to complete the degree. Students with a disability or chronic health condition may have adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. 

The requirements, competencies and inherent requirements are outlined by the professional accrediting bodies: Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), and Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

 

Key dates for international applicants

ActivityRound 1 (September)Round 2 (November)
Sit the Casper Situational Judgment TestAny available test date from April - AugustAny available test date
International applications close15 August 202520 October 2025
Interview eligibility outcome sent via email September onwards November onwards

Offers will be issued from September 2025 and continue until January 2026.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. 

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more. 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
Graduates

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Accommodation options

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Life in Adelaide

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Scholarships

Our scholarships can provide the helping hand you need to transition into university life.

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