306361 v.2 Master of Human Services Counselling

Introduction

This course is an advanced practice-oriented and experimental professional course intended for people who wish to enhance or commence a counselling practice in their present or future employment. It aims to give students an appreciation of diverse, contemporary approaches to counselling by exposing them to a range of theories and practices. Specialised knowledge in working with individuals, couples, families, groups and communities is offered. Personal awareness and supervision contribute to a criticallyreflective practice. Students will be required to attend two weekend workshops to explore individual beliefs and attitudes that may contribute to, or take away from. effective practice. Accountability practices, quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods, and theorising as evaluation will be addressed. Two counselling placements are a feature of the course, providing students with the opportunity to specialise in specific practice settings. An option unit is offered allowing students to concentrate on a particular area of interest.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

A four-year Bachelor's degree or honours in a related discipline, and a minimum of twelve months documented relevant work experience, OR a three-year Bachelor's degree as well as a Graduate Diploma in a related area with a course weighted average of at least 70 per cent and a minimum of twelve months documented relevant work experience, OR a three-year Bachelor's degree in behavioural or social sciences or equivalent with a course weighted average of at least 70 per cent and a minimum of two years documented relevant work experience. All applicants will need to do - Complete Curtin Application for Admission and Enrolment Form. Provide Curriculum Vitae including relevant work experience. Ask two referees to complete the School's Referee's Report form. Provide a certified copy of previous tertiary, or other relevant, qualifications (if applicable). Write a statement regarding why you wish to enrol in the course (not more than 500 words). Attend an interview.

Specific Requirements

None.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis. Not more than two units in total will be exempted and no exemptions will be allowed for work experience alone.

Duration and Availability

This fee paying course is eighteen months full-time or equivalent part-time study. Some optional units may be available externally.

Intermediate Awards

In exceptional circumstances a student who has successfully completed al the requirements of the Graduate Certificate in Counselling (Human Services) may apply for graduation in that award subject to approval by the Head of Department. If a student does not complete the Master of Human Services Counselling and has attained all requirements of the Graduate Diploma in Counselling (Human Services), they may apply to graduate with that award. For further definition refer to the Statement and Awards section under the General Information section in the Curtin Courses Handbook.

Course Organisation

This course consists of ten units and two field placements. Delivery of the units includes late afternoon and early evening on-campus lectures, weekend workshops and optional week intensives. The Department endeavours to alternate times of on-campus lectures for the convenience of students. Videos, discussions, lectures, practical exercises, role-plays and client stories contribute to a varied and engaging learning atmosphere.

Career Opportunities

Graduates may find employment within government and non-government agencies specialising in counselling services. Some may commence a private counselling practice.

Additional Course Expenses

A full list of fees is available upon request or at enrolment. In addition, students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials and may, if required, also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables (which varies depending on area of study). For a full list of explanation of consumable fees please refer to the Fees, Expenses and Allowances heading under the General Information section in the Curtin Courses Handbook at http://www.curtin.edu.au/curtin/handbook.

Availability

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

*The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.