Overview
The Master of Counselling (Clinical Mental Health) programme at Sunway University is designed to cultivate highly knowledgeable and skilled counselling professionals ready to address mental health issues within the community. Graduates will be prepared to pursue professional certification as registered counsellors with the Board of Counsellors (Malaysia) – Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia. By completing the required supervised practice hours and meeting the Board's requirements, they will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective counselling.
As the first private institution in Southeast Asia to offer this programme, Sunway University provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of behavioural assessment and intervention techniques. The programme includes core areas such as developmental psychology, counselling theories, multicultural competence, career development, and group counselling. It emphasizes the application of scientific, statistical, and digital methods while upholding a strong focus on ethical practices. Additionally, students can choose from electives like marital and family counselling, tele-mental health, and counselling entrepreneurship, which further enrich their learning experience.
Upon graduation, students will possess key attributes to excel in the counselling profession. They will have a deep understanding of fundamental counselling principles and the ability to apply critical and creative thinking to solve mental health issues using scientific approaches. Graduates will adeptly manage mental health challenges with advanced research methods and practical counselling skills, demonstrating effective community interaction and support. They will excel in clear communication with both experts and laypersons and will be proficient in leveraging digital tools in their practice. Furthermore, they will possess strong numeracy skills for data interpretation, show leadership in addressing community mental health needs, and commit to lifelong learning and professional development. Our graduates will also bring entrepreneurial skills to advance the field of counselling and adhere to the highest ethical standards in their professional conduct.
The Master of Counselling (Clinical Mental Health) programme at Sunway University stands out due to its unique association with the Sunway Group and its strong linkage to Sunway Medical Centre. As part of the prestigious Sunway Group, which is renowned for its excellence in education, healthcare, and integrated facilities, our programme benefits from an extensive network and a commitment to holistic, high-quality education. The partnership with Sunway Medical Centre provides students with valuable opportunities for internships, practical training, and collaborative research projects, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for real-world challenges in the mental health field.
Apply now to be part of a programme that blends academic excellence with practical, industry-leading resources.
Approved and adhering to the standard of the Board of Counsellors, Malaysia (Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia)
What are the Differences between Internship and Practicum?
| Aspect | Internship | Practicum |
| Purpose | Provides substantial, real-world exposure to the field; integrates students into the professional environment. | Focuses on applying academic learning in a controlled environment; emphasises skill development. |
| Duration | Typically lasts several months, with full-time or part-time hours. | Generally shorter in duration, integrated into a specific course or academic term. |
| Structure | Comprehensive experience with a range of tasks and responsibilities. | Structured schedule with a focus on the direct application of counselling skills. |
| Responsibilities | Broader scope, including case management, client interaction, and administrative tasks. | Specific tasks related to developing and refining counselling skills. |
| Supervision | Regular supervision with opportunities for independent work; overall performance evaluation. | Intensive supervision with detailed feedback on skill application and adherence to ethics. |
| Scope | Involves a range of responsibilities and integration into the professional setting. | Emphasises specific skill development and practical application within a guided framework. |
How should I prepare for the Board of Counsellors (Malaysia) – Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia?
Upon completing the internship and practicum, you may apply for your registered and practising licensure with the Board while waiting for the official graduation scroll (subject to LKM’s processes and approval). Refer to the infographic here for more information.
- Clinical Mental Health Counsellor
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- School Counsellor
- University Counsellor
- Substance Abuse and Addiction Counsellor
- Juvenile Counsellor
- Forensic Counsellor
- Career Counsellor
- Community Health Counsellor
- Geriatric Counsellor
- Clinical Supervisor
- Rehabilitation Counsellor
- Researcher in Counselling
- Sports and Athletic Counsellor
- Entrepreneur
- Educator
- RM62,480
for Malaysian students
- USD14,505
for international students
Programme Structure
Core Subjects
Electives
Pick 1 elective
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
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:
- Provide a personal statement (500 words) of why they would like to join this programme
- Pass an interview
Application Procedure
Kindly email the following documents to [email protected] for an eligibility check:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree transcript (if applicable)
- Completion certificates
- Mental health declaration form and
- A 2500-word Personal Statement – Why do you want to join the programme?
Once you have completed and passed the above, an interview will be held between you and two panel members. This assessment aims to evaluate the applicant's preparedness for counsellor training, including their understanding of and expectations regarding the counselling field. It also aims to gauge their psychological readiness for the profession's demands. Additionally, the assessment allows applicants to familiarize themselves with the program’s expectations and requirements.
After passing the eligibility check, the school administrator will brief the student further regarding the application process. Incomplete documents will not be processed.
For further information about the programme, contact
- Assoc Professor Ooi Pei Boon (Programme Leader): @email
- Ms Michelle Tan May Yi (Programme Coordinator): @email
- General line: [email protected]
Scholarships and Financial Aid
For more information about the scholarships and financial aid, please visit the SEG Scholarships website.
Ask a question
If you’d like to know more about studying at Sunway University, we’d love to hear from you.
