ADA launches new Master of Counselling
The new online program will make high-quality, flexible training more accessible nationwide.
Published on the 01 July 2026
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The Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture (ADA) at UNSW Sydney has expanded its postgraduate offerings with the introduction of a new Master of Counselling, designed to help meet the rising demand for skilled counselling and mental health professionals.
Developed by Dr Jane Mowll from ADA’s School of Social Sciences in partnership with UNSW Online, the new program forms part of a comprehensive counselling suite that also includes a Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma in Counselling.
“Together, these programs aim to equip graduates with the knowledge, practical skills and professional capability to respond to the complex mental health and wellbeing challenges facing individuals and communities today,” says Program Director Dr Mowll.
Australians seeking help for mental health, trauma, loss, and relationship challenges face barriers to accessing support, including stigma, affordability and limited availability of services. The new Master of Counselling has been designed to help address this gap by preparing graduates for meaningful, client-centred practice in a rapidly evolving sector.
Dr Mowll says the degree emphasises both professional development and personal growth.
“At UNSW, we believe that transformative counselling work begins with your own growth. Our program empowers students to develop the depth of knowledge and capability needed to make a meaningful difference,” she said.
A key feature of the program is its strong focus on real-world experience. Students enrolled in the Master of Counselling will complete 200 hours of professional placement, while Graduate Diploma students will undertake 100 hours. These placements provide valuable opportunities to apply therapeutic frameworks in practice, build confidence in client-facing environments and develop the competencies required for Australian Counselling Association (ACA) accreditation.
As part of the program, students will also attend a four-day intensive workshop held on UNSW Sydney’s Kensington campus. Guided by experienced practitioners, the workshop offers an immersive, hands-on learning environment where students collaborate with peers to strengthen their applied counselling skills and prepare for professional placements.
“The counselling programs deliver contemporary, evidence-informed approaches to practice, and foster self-awareness and the ability to build a genuine therapeutic presence. Students are taught by leading academics and practitioners, ensuring their learning is grounded in both current research and professional expertise,” says Dr Mowll.
Applications are now open for the first intake, with courses commencing on 19 October 2026.