The Master of Counselling at the University of Waikato is a postgraduate Masters Degree designed for experienced professionals who wish to advance their expertise in narrative therapy and social constructionist theory. This programme addresses the evolving needs of the mental health and education sectors, providing you with the advanced knowledge required for leadership roles within the New Zealand counselling profession. By focusing on narrative practices, you will explore how to facilitate meaningful change in diverse community, education, and health settings. This qualification is ideal if you are a dedicated practitioner seeking to deepen your professional ethics and clinical competencies.
Studied full-time on campus over two years, the course structure integrates intensive professional papers with practical application. You will engage in group leadership, mediation, and practitioner research, while completing essential practicum placements in real-world mental health or community environments. Your learning culminates in a directed study, dissertation, or masters thesis, allowing you to contribute original insights to the field. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for diverse career pathways in private practice, youth services, hospice care, or corrections, with the academic foundation necessary to pursue further doctoral study in the counselling discipline.