| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-03-01 | - |
Program Overview
This part-time, two-year postgraduate program enhances counseling and therapy skills for practicing social workers. It explores contemporary counseling frameworks, advanced counseling skills, and complex practice issues. Graduates can pursue specialized counseling positions, clinical supervision, private practice, or doctoral research, advancing their careers in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- The program is designed for practicing social workers to enhance their counseling and therapy knowledge and skills.
- Students will engage in interactive intensives and seminars focusing on practice skills, theory, and analysis of ideas in their social work practice.
- Core facets of the therapeutic relationship are studied using systemic and relational counseling approaches in various practice contexts.
- Contemporary counseling frameworks are explored, such as family therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness, and trauma-based approaches.
- Students will also develop advanced counseling skills, examine complex practice issues like therapeutic impasse, grief, loss, trauma, and violence, and enhance their social work research knowledge.
- This postgraduate degree serves as a pathway to a Professional Doctorate or PhD.
Careers:
- Potential career paths include specialized counseling positions in health, mental health, and community services.
- Graduates may pursue roles in clinical supervision, private counseling practice, training, and management positions.
- The program is a gateway to doctoral research, providing opportunities for career advancement and specialization in the field.
University of New South Wales, Sydney
Overview:
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney is a leading public research university located in Sydney, Australia. It is renowned for its academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia and globally.
Services Offered:
UNSW Sydney offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Study Options:
Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, short courses, online programs, professional development opportunities, and Higher Degree Research.Campus Experience:
A vibrant campus environment with various facilities, including accommodation, student support services, and a comprehensive library.Support Services:
Academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and mental health resources.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance, cultural orientation, and English language programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNSW Sydney provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience for its students. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of clubs and societies, and numerous social and cultural events throughout the year. Students can enjoy a vibrant campus life with opportunities to connect with peers, explore their interests, and develop their skills.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
UNSW Sydney is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and world-class research.Global Reputation:
The university consistently ranks among the top universities in Australia and internationally.Research Opportunities:
Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work alongside leading researchers.Career Development:
UNSW Sydney provides strong career support services and connections with industry partners.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement.Academic Programs:
UNSW Sydney offers a wide range of academic programs across its eight faculties:
- Arts, Design & Architecture
- Business School
- Engineering
- Law & Justice
- Medicine & Health
- Science
- UNSW Canberra
The university is particularly known for its strengths in engineering, business, medicine, and science.
Entry Requirements:
The admission requirements for the new Master of Counselling Social Work are as follows:
- A UNSW Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) degree or equivalent qualification
- Eligibility for membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), meeting professional association requirements including professional development and supervision
- Two years of specialised counselling practice experience ensuring that students in the program are already skilled clinicians
- Current employment in an organisational context where prospective students are able to provide counselling, case management or other direct practice interventions with clients. This is in contrast to social workers who may have worked primarily in administrative or management roles. Admission is subject to quota. Applications must include a brief curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of at least two professional referees. Eligibility of the AASW ensures that students are professional social workers, are committed to the values and ethics of the profession and have had prior education in social work practice methods including counselling. The AASW also expects social workers to have participated in professional development activities (of up to 50 hours per year) and to have received professional supervision.
