Master of Applied Social Science (Counselling)

ACAP's Master of Applied Social Science program responds to industry demands for well-rounded graduates who can work effectively with people, who can understand and apply practical and theoretical social science, and who can think critically and analytically.

Graduates will be highly regarded for their ability to integrate theory into their practice and for their ethics and professionalism.

The following information relates to the Master of Applied Social Science(Counselling), additional information is available for the generic Master of Applied Social Science and Master of Applied Social Science (Management)

Course Outline | Entry Criteria | How to Apply

Course Outline

Graduates of the Master of Applied Social Science (Counselling) program will be reflective practitioners suited for employment in a range of private and public sector industries. They will understand the social and environmental contexts of the people with whom they work and the organisations they work within.

During the program, all students complete the following four core modules regardless of their stream of study:

• Theories of Contemporary Society
• Research Practices and Methodologies
• The Contextualised Self
• Independent Project

Core modules in the Counselling stream include:

• Counselling Skills
• Advanced Counselling Applications
• Approaches to Therapy 1
• Approaches to Therapy 2
• Development Throughout the Lifespan
• Advanced Clinical Supervision

Students in this stream then progress to complete two Counselling Specialisation Electives, chosen from the list below:

• Existential/Humanistic Therapy
• Family/Systemic Therapy
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
• Cognitive/Behavioural Therapy

Entry Criteria

All applicants are expected to participate in an initial interview focusing on their past and current work experience and professional training. They will be expected to present a brief written statement indicating their reasons for applying. Applicants present references regarding their suitability for enrolment in the course. These matters will be included in an assessment of whether to offer admission to the applicant.

To be accepted into this stream of the program applicants must hold one of the following:

• Relevant Undergraduate degree (credit average or above)
• Relevant Undergraduate degree (pass average) plus ACAP Bridging Course (more information on Bridging Program below)
• Unrelated undergraduate degree (credit or above) plus 3 years relevant work experience and ACAP Bridging Course.

ACAP Bridging Course (Counselling stream only)

The Bridging Course is a requirement of the Counselling stream only when a student does not have adequate prior knowledge of the counselling industry to study at Masters level. The course helps to ensure that the student has a good understanding of counselling theory and practice. Bridging Course subjects are charged at $1395 per module for Australian citizens and permanent residents and $1675 per module for international students.

The course consists of the following four modules:

• Counselling Skills 1
• Conflict Management
• Mental Health Issues
• Counselling in Loss

Advanced Standing for Graduate Diploma of Counselling graduates

Students who have been awarded ACAP's Graduate Diploma of Counselling will be required to complete the following modules

Master of Applied Social Science (Counselling)

• 5 core modules + 2 specialisation electives

How to Apply

It is strongly recommended that you apply well in advance of the term in which you plan to commence studying. Enrolment must be completed two weeks prior to the start of each term. Late applications are only accepted if places are available.

3 steps to enrol:

• Choose your course
  ACAP provides information and individual support to help you determine the best program of study to meet your professional goals and personal needs.
  
  For you to make a more informed decision:
  • you are welcome to Attend one of our Information Evenings, or,
  • have a chat to a Course Advisor, simply ring 1800 061 199 to book a telephone or face-to-face appointment.
• Complete and send your application form
  Apply Online or download and print (PDF).
• Confirmation of your enrolment
  Upon acceptance, you will receive a letter of offer within two weeks. International students applying to study in Australia will also receive an 'Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment' or 'Letter of Offer for PVA'.

For assistance or information on the enrolment process contact the Course Information Centre on 1800 061 199 or info@acap.edu.au.