Higher Diploma in Science in Counselling Studies

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 honours 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.