Introduction
The design of the course and the syllabus content was strongly influenced by the guidelines which were issued by the Institute of Guidance Counsellors. The course reflects these requirements and the importance of the counselling dimension of guidance counselling is accorded primacy within the course.
This is a part-time programme which is run over a period of two academic years. The programme consists of nine taught modules, a project and a school placement. The average contact time per week for each of the first three semesters will be six hours. Part of the contact is delivered through two intensive weekend group sessions, which will take place in semesters 1 and 3. During the final semester, contact time will be reduced to an average of three hours per week to take account of the demands of completing the project.
Objectives
To qualify practicing teachers as Guidance Counsellors. The qualification is recognised by the Department of Education for the purpose of appointment as Guidance Counsellor.
Programme Content
Semester 1
Counselling Theory and Practice (1), The Psychology of Human Development
Semester 2
Theory and Skills of Experiential Group Processes, Theory of Career Development and Behaviour
Summer
Research Methods and Information Technology, Theory and Practice of Psychological Assessment
YEAR 2
Semester 3
Counselling Theory and Practice (2), Educational Issues and Professional Practice in Guidance Counselling, SCHOOL PLACEMENT.
Semester 3
The Psychology of Work and Working Life, Project, INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT.
Summer
Project, Guidance in Adult and Continuing Education
Careers
Recognised by the Department of Education for the purpose of appointment as Guidance Counsellor in Second Level Schools.
Entrance Requirements
Candidates shall be required to possess either of the following:
- A degree (Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland) in Education from a concurrent undergraduate programme or
- An appropriate Bachelor's Degree and Higher Diploma in Education or
- An approved equivalent professional teaching qualification or
- Graduates (Level 8 Honours degree) with an appropriate level of experience and a particular interest in this area
- Applicants may be required to attend for interview as part of the selection process.
Garda clearance is also required for this programme.
What to Include with your Application
- Full degree transcript and certificates/awards (including English translation if applicable)
- English language qualifications (if English is not your first language)
- A copy of your birth certificate (long document)
Application Fee
An application fee will apply from January 2011 to all postgraduate programmes. Please see Frequently Asked Questions for more information on the application fee.
Tuition Fee
The University recognises that many students are experiencing serious financial constraints in the present economic climate. Accordingly the Fees Office will endeavour to accommodate, where possible, the payment of fees via an agreed instalment payment plan. For further details please contact the Fees Office at feesoffice@ul.ie. Click here for details on the fee schedule.
PDF of programme brochure
Contact
Department: Education and Professional Studies
Course director: Mr Tom Geary
Tel: 353-61-202701
Email: tom.geary@ul.ie
Web: www.ul.ie/education/
