Counselling Studies

Higher Diploma in Science

Course Details

Course Code	LY_VCOUN_G
Level	8
Duration	1.5 years
Credits	60
Method of Delivery	Blended
Campus Locations	Donegal – Letterkenny
Mode of Delivery	Part Time

Apply Now How to Apply

Apply Now How to Apply

Course Overview

There are many teachers, particularly career guidance counsellors, HSE staff and allied healthcare staff who, as part of their job, require counselling skills. This course provides a pathway for such professionals who would like to pursue counselling as a secondary career choice.

The course has been developed as a Level 8 programme with a minimum entry qualification of an Honours degree or equivalent as many of the potential applicants would hold an honour’s degree. Also many of those interested in undertaking this programme of study would already be in employment which would or could have a counselling component thus it is envisaged this counselling qualification would support them in their current roles. Others will undoubtedly seek this qualification as a means to pursuing a full qualification as a Counsellor thus the link to the Ulster University programme in Counselling.

The programme would be suitable for those who are seeking to make a career change but have some experience (voluntary or otherwise) in a helping capacity e.g. in human resources, law, social services, nursing or education. For those who are not seeking a career change then the course will enhance their current professional practice by providing them with an insight into the theory and practice of counselling as well as the management of high intensity distress.

Recommended Study Hours per week

3 hours per week per module.

Examination and Assessment

100% continuous assessment.

On-Campus Attendance Requirement

This programme is mostly delivered online on weekdays. However, each module may have a Saturday on campus workshop at the Letterkenny Campus.
Note: Check programme Examination and Assessment requirements, as they may involve examinations to be taken on campus.

Download a prospectus

Postgraduate Prospectus Online, Flexible & Professional Development Prospectus

Entry Requirements

Standard applicants will present a qualification recognised by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent. Applicants must also be currently employed in a counselling role or have recent experience (within last five years) of employment either professionally or voluntarily in a role involving the use of counselling skills. Consideration will also be given to candidates who present with other suitable qualifications and experience in line with the colleges RPL procedures. Level 8, or an equivalent qualification, from any discipline, with work experience (professionally or voluntarily).

Fees

Total Fees EU: €3300

Further information on fees

Careers

Graduate careers typically include roles in crisis centers, health and social care services, schools and universities, as social care workers, and within youth and community organizations.

Further Information

Who Should Apply?

This programme is suitable for teachers, particularly career guidance counsellors, HSE staff and allied healthcare staff who, as part of their job, require counselling skills. This course provides a pathway for such professionals who would like to pursue counselling as a secondary career choice. Many of those interested in undertaking this programme would already be in employment which would or could have a counselling component thus it is envisaged this counselling qualification would support them in their current roles.