Master in Oriental Counseling and Welfare

Oriental Counseling and Welfare is a master's program at Youngsan University in Haeundae-gu, South Korea, taught in English over two years. The discipline combines counseling theory and practice with traditional East Asian approaches to wellbeing, studying how psychological support, welfare services, and traditional healing perspectives can be integrated to help individuals manage stress, mental health challenges, and life transitions. Students typically examine counseling techniques, welfare program design, and the philosophical and cultural traditions of East Asia that inform holistic approaches to personal and community wellbeing. Graduates in this field often work as counselors, welfare service providers, and program coordinators in community centers, schools, healthcare settings, and social service organizations that value culturally grounded approaches to mental health and support. Others move into research roles examining the intersection of traditional practices and modern counseling methods, or into training and education roles preparing future counselors. This background can also support work in organizations serving aging populations or communities seeking counseling approaches informed by East Asian traditions. The program welcomes new students in March and September, with instruction delivered entirely in English to support an international student body. South Korea's blend of modern welfare systems with long-standing cultural traditions offers students a distinctive setting for studying how counseling and social support can draw on both contemporary and traditional frameworks. Located in Haeundae-gu near Busan, the program connects students to a community where these approaches are actively practiced and studied.