Edith Cowan University

Master of Counselling

Perth, Australia Taught in English Open to international students

Why students choose this program

  • Taught in English
  • No application fee

Introduction

Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Perth, Australia, established in 1991, is a large and diverse institution with approximately 30,450 students, including around 6,000 international students. ECU emphasises industry-connected teaching, research impact and student employability across its 11 program areas, fostering a practical, career-focused learning environment. The Perth campus offers a dynamic urban setting with strong links to industry and community partners.

Programs span health, education, business, engineering, arts and sciences, with modern facilities such as simulation labs, research centres and creative studios that support experiential learning. Small class sizes, accessible staff and a focus on work-integrated learning help students gain practical skills and professional networks. Research at ECU addresses real-world challenges and integrates student involvement through projects and placements.

International students are supported with comprehensive services including orientation, academic assistance, English language programs and career counselling to ease transition and enhance success. Scholarships and financial guidance help manage study costs, while vibrant campus life and support networks promote wellbeing and intercultural engagement. For students seeking a university with strong industry ties, practical training and a welcoming multicultural community in Perth, ECU offers a compelling combination of academic quality and real-world preparation.

About the Program

ECU’s Master of Counselling equips you with the knowledge, skills and experience to work effectively as a professional counsellor across diverse settings. You’ll learn to engage clients through a person-centred approach, while exploring a range of counselling theories and techniques including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural and humanistic models. You’ll also study specialist areas such as counselling children and adolescents, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, counselling in a digital world, mental health, and trauma-informed practice. Along the way, you’ll examine the ethical and professional issues counsellors face, particularly in today’s rapidly changing and increasingly digital environment. Practical learning is at the heart of this course. You’ll complete 220 hours of professional placement in an agency setting, including supervised practice. Here you’ll plan, implement and evaluate counselling sessions, collaborate within interprofessional teams, and reflect on your own practice developing the confidence and competence you’ll need to practice as a counsellor. By graduation, you’ll be prepared to deliver flexible, ethical and culturally responsive counselling to individuals, families and communities.

English Test Requirement

IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0); Bachelor degree from a country specified on the English Proficiency Bands page; Successfully completed 0.375 EFTSL of study at postgraduate level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent); Where accepted, equivalent prior learning, including at least five years relevant professional experience; or Other tests, courses or programs defined on the English Proficiency Bands page.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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