Master of Counselling

at University of Auckland Free Consultation

QUALIFICATION

Master's Degree (Level 9, 120 or 240 points)

Duration

Full-time: Varies / Part-time: Varies

Location

City Campus, Auckland

Fees

NZD 43,674

Entry Score

IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)

Next Intake

March

Programme Overview

The Master of Counselling is a professional qualification designed for mature students transitioning from related fields like teaching, social work, or nursing. It focuses on developing advanced skills in narrative therapy, professional ethics, and practitioner research.

The programme is tailor-made for those who wish to become professional counsellors or for experienced practitioners seeking to advance their research and reflexivity capabilities. Admission is highly competitive and involves a rigorous selection process, including an interview and safety checks.

What You'll Study

The structure depends on whether you enter the 120-point or 240-point pathway.

Common Core Modules

PROFCOUN 730: Advanced Counselling Skills
PROFCOUN 732: Professional Issues in Counselling
PROFCOUN 701: Counselling Theory and Practice

Research Options

Research Portfolio (90 points): A structured portfolio of research-led inquiry.
Thesis (90 points): An in-depth independent research project on a specific counselling challenge.

Taught Options

Advanced coursework selected from subjects such as professional supervision, social justice in education, and Māori/Pacific perspectives in health.

Why Choose This Programme?

Narrative Focus: Known globally for its expertise and leadership in Narrative Therapy practices.
Professional Pathway: Designed to align with the requirements for membership in professional bodies like the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC).
Work-Integrated Learning: Combines academic theory with advanced clinical skills and reflexive practice.
Flexible Pathways: Offers both Research and Taught tracks to suit your career or academic goals.

Career Pathways

Sector	Roles
Healthcare	Professional Counsellor, Clinical Lead, Mental Health Advisor
Education	School Counsellor, Student Wellbeing Coordinator, Tertiary Advisor
Social Services	Family Therapist, Community Support Manager, Mediator
Private Practice	Specialist Narrative Therapist, Private Consultant

Entry Requirements

Academic: * 120-point: Requires a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Theory or equivalent with a GPA/GPE of 5.0.
- 240-point: Requires a relevant Bachelor’s degree (Education, Nursing, Social Work, etc.) with a GPA/GPE of 5.0.
Professional: Minimum of three years’ practical experience in a related profession (e.g., teaching, nursing, social work).
Additional: Satisfactory interview, police/safety checks, and professional references