Master of Counselling
Course details
PornÑо¿Ëù the course
The Master of Counselling is globally recognised for its focus on narrative therapy. Cultivate professional skills rooted in constructionist theories, setting you apart in the field.
The Master of Counselling (MCouns) is established as a flagship degree that has seen 92% of graduates over the past six years gain successful employment.
The degree has specifically been designed for professional counsellors or supervisors interested in leadership roles within the New Zealand counselling profession.
The programme has a key teaching focus on providing experiences in which you can further develop your professional attitudes, knowledge and competencies in the areas of counselling, group leadership, mediation and practitioner research. You'll graduate with a high level of knowledge and understanding through the narrative practice this programme is known for.
For the past 20 years, our teaching staff have been active in promoting narrative therapy, beginning with a book staff produced called Narrative Therapy in Practice. Today Waikato is considered a leader in this field with several local and international publications produced each year.
This notable reputation extends also into our thriving doctoral counselling programme.
Practical Experience
Professional papers offer students the opportunity to have supported professional experience in community and or education settings. Efforts are made to cater for and respond to the individual student’s particular background and professional education goals.
Practicum placements
In order to gain a place in the programme, students must be able to demonstrate a relationship with a community-based counselling service or school or mental health service which will give them access to an appropriate practicum placement.
Students must have a commitment to ongoing appropriate professional supervision. However, students will not establish any formal contract with an agency until they have been selected into the Counsellor Education Programme and have received all the necessary information on practicum placements.
In general, students in the first year of a full-time programme complete 200 hours in a professional counselling setting and complete 80 hours of counselling. They will engage in professional supervision*. The supervisor must be a member of a professional helping body such as NZAC, NZASW, NZPsS, or NZAP. Students must engage in a minimum of 16 supervision sessions, in each of the practicum papers. Students should note that NZAC membership now requires supervision with an experienced NZAC Member.
In the second year of the full-time programme the practicum involves 450 hours in counselling settings. Up to three placements may be arranged.
Note: Successful applicants will be completely responsible for setting up an appropriate placement to meet the requirements of the counselling practicum for the various papers.
*There may be a cost involved.
PornÑо¿Ëù the provider
The University of Waikato has two campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in New Zealand's economic heartland. Our close-knit communities help international students settle in quickly, with the support and connections needed to succeed in their studies, and beyond.
What sets the University of Waikato apart is our commitment to real-world learning. The University has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year. Strong partnerships across government, industry and community organisations provide students with wide career options and practical pathways into New Zealand's job market and beyond.
Established in 1964, we've built a reputation for research excellence and innovation. Consistently ranked among New Zealand's top universities, our international student services, peer mentoring programmes, and close-knit campus communities ensure students feel at home from day one.
Ready to turn your academic goals into career success? Your journey starts at the University of Waikato.
Top 10 reasons to study at Waikato
- International Recognition: Ranked among the top 3 universities in New Zealand and 235th globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Subject Rankings: 11 subjects ranked in the top 350 globally (QS Subject Rankings 2025); ranked in the 151–175 band globally for Business & Economics (THE Subject Rankings 2025)—the highest for any NZ university.
- Research Excellence: Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for research (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Triple Crown Accreditation: Waikato Management School is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, placing it in the top 1% of business schools globally.
- Academic Excellence: Learn fromaward-winning lecturers and researchers in a close-knit academic community known for innovative teaching and learning..
- Flexible Degree Structure: Choose from over 100 subjects to shape a qualification and 200 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, diplomas, and certificates —tailored to suit your strengths and career goals.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from over 2,000 industry placements and projects annually through strong partnerships with government, business, and community organisations. Access career and employability services to graduate job-ready.
- Student Support and Campus Life: Vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga offer modern facilities, easy access to nature, and dedicated student support—including international advisors, tutors, career services, and a buddy programme.
- Scholarships and Bursaries: A range of scholarships available to support both domestic and international students.
- Inclusive Student Community: Be part of a welcoming, diverse environment with 70+ clubs and 120+ societies covering academics, culture, sports, and more. Waikato is highly recommended by students, with excellent satisfaction ratings in the 2023 Student Barometer Survey.
Hamilton is a vibrant, student-friendly city located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Surrounded by stunning nature, students can enjoy scenic parks, hiking trails, and the famous Hobbiton movie set nearby. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, multicultural community, and welcoming vibe making it a perfect place for students to live, study and explore.
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Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, offering students a perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports and a warm, sunny climate, it’s an ideal place for students looking to explore, learn and live in a welcoming environment.
Check out a range of available on our campuses.