Masters of Counselling (Clinical Mental Health)

The Master of Counselling (Clinical Mental Health) at Sunway University is designed to develop skilled professionals equipped to address mental health issues within the community. Graduates will meet the requirements for certification as registered counsellors with the Board of Counsellors (Malaysia) by completing the necessary supervised practice hours. As the first private institution in Southeast Asia to offer this programme, Sunway University provides a comprehensive curriculum covering counselling theories, developmental psychology, multicultural competence, and practical intervention techniques. Students can also specialise through electives such as marital and family counselling, tele-mental health, and counselling entrepreneurship, ensuring a well-rounded education that integrates scientific, ethical, and digital approaches.

A key highlight of the programme is its strong affiliation with the Sunway Group and Sunway Medical Centre, providing students with valuable internships, practical training, and research opportunities. Graduates will be adept at critical thinking, scientific problem-solving, and effective communication, equipped with digital proficiency and entrepreneurial skills to advance the field. The programme also emphasises leadership, ethical practice, and lifelong learning, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the evolving mental health landscape. With a balance of theoretical knowledge and real-world experience, students gain the expertise needed to excel in counselling and community mental health support.

Entry Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in the field or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 or equivalent as accepted by the HEP Senate
• Candidates without a qualification in the field/related fields/relevant working experience must undergo appropriate prerequisite courses determined by the HEP and meet the minimum CGPA

English Language Requirements

• IELTS 6.0
• TOEFL 550 (paper-based), 200 (computer-based), 75 (internet-based)
• PTE Academic 50 overall
• MUET Band 4
• Cambridge English: First/CEFR 170 (Grade B)/B2
• Cambridge English: Advanced/CEFR 170 (Grade B)/B2

Note: Candidates who have completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in English would have met the language requirement.

Specific Requirements

Candidates who fulfil the previous requirements must also:

1. Provide a personal statement (500 words) of why they would like to join this programme
2. Pass an interview

Core Subjects

• Development across Lifespan
• Theories and Process of Counselling
• Foundation of Counselling Skills
• Theories of Career Development
• Career Counselling in Practice
• Theories and Techniques of Group Counselling
• Multicultural Counselling
• Counselling Research Design & Statistics
• Psychological Testing
• Assessment in Counselling
• Legal and Ethics in Counselling
• Research Project

Electives -- Pick 1 elective

• Marital and Family Counselling
• Tele-Mental Health Counselling
• Entrepreneurship in Counselling

Practicum (In House)

The practicum is crucial in providing students with hands-on experience in real-world counselling settings. Typically, it involves 252 hours, including 96 client contact hours of on-site supervised practice. During this period, students conduct counselling sessions with clients while receiving guidance and feedback from experienced supervisors. This practical experience helps them develop and refine essential counselling skills, including assessment, intervention, and case management.

By Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia’s requirements, students must complete 252 supervised practice hours to qualify for certification as registered counsellors. The practicum supports the development of practical skills and ensures adherence to ethical standards and professional conduct. Through reflective practice and detailed case documentation, students gain valuable insights and competence, preparing them for successful careers in the counselling profession.
 

Internship (External Placement)

An internship is a key component that offers students hands-on experience in real-world counselling environments. Typically spanning several months, the internship involves completing a specified number of supervised practice hours in settings such as mental health clinics, schools, and community centers. This structured experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, conduct counselling sessions, and engage in client assessments while adhering to ethical standards. 

Under the guidance of licensed professionals, students receive regular supervision and feedback to refine their skills and address challenges. The internship is designed to meet Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia’s requirements of 504 hours for practical experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for certification as registered counsellors. The 504 hours will cover individual and group counselling sessions, case management, psychoeducational programs, and intervention initiatives. This practical exposure enhances students’ counselling abilities and supports their professional development and readiness for their future careers. While the University will assist in making internship placement arrangements, students could also find placement opportunities within Malaysia. 
 

Core: Specialisation Subjects

• Crisis Intervention in Counselling
• Children & Adolescent Mental Health
• Clinical Mental Health Counselling
• Psychopathology in Counselling