Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This program combines theoretical foundations, clinical practice and research methods to prepare students for systemic work across settings. Core areas typically covered include:

• Systems theory and models of family therapy — contemporary systemic frameworks, structural, strategic, narrative and post‑modern approaches, and how to integrate models for diverse presentations.
• Assessment and formulation — systemic assessment methods, genograms, circular questioning, risk assessment and culturally sensitive formulation of relational problems.
• Therapeutic skills and interventions — couple therapy, family therapy, work with children and adolescents, brief systemic interventions and working with complex presentations (trauma, severe mental illness, substance use).
• Group work and community systems — group therapy processes, working with broader systems such as schools, child protection and health services, and systemic consultation.
• Clinical practice and supervised placements — structured practicum components providing direct client contact under clinical supervision, development of professional competencies and reflective practice.
• Ethics, professional issues and cultural competence — ethical practice, confidentiality, professional boundaries and working respectfully with culturally and linguistically diverse families and First Nations peoples.
• Research methods and evidence base — qualitative and quantitative methods relevant to family and systemic research, critical appraisal of evidence and a minor research project or practice‑based thesis depending on the program pathway.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually required to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as psychology, social work, counselling, nursing or another health‑related field. Relevant professional experience in clinical, community or allied health settings is highly regarded and may be required for selection.

Other typical requirements include demonstrated English language proficiency and a suitability assessment which can include referees, a personal statement and an interview. Some applicants may be required to hold registration or membership of a relevant professional body depending on their prior training and the clinical placement requirements. Meeting the program’s academic and professional prerequisites is necessary to undertake supervised clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates develop competencies to work as family and systemic practitioners in a range of settings. Common career destinations include:

• Family and relationship services and specialist couples and family therapy practices.
• Mental health services in community health, hospital outpatient clinics and private practice.
• Child protection, child and adolescent mental health services, and school counselling programs.
• Community and non‑government organisations providing family support, domestic violence services and rehabilitation programs.
• Consultancy roles providing systemic consultation to organisations, teams and multidisciplinary health services.

Graduates may also pursue further research or academic roles if they complete a research component and meet higher degree by research entry standards.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers a clinically oriented Master of Family and Systemic Therapy that emphasises applied skills, reflective practice and ethical, culturally informed care. The program is delivered by experienced clinicians and academic staff who combine teaching with active practice in family therapy and related services.

Students benefit from structured, supervised placement opportunities and small cohort teaching that supports skill development and professional networking. ACU’s focus on community engagement and holistic care provides pathways into a broad range of health, education and social service settings.

The university also provides student support services, professional development workshops and connections with clinical supervisors and placement partners to help graduates transition into professional practice.