Counselling Studies - Letterkenny

Counselling skills can be very powerful. Active listening, empathy and building rapport form a core part of many helping relationships.



The Higher Diploma in Science in Counselling Studies provides students with a broad education and grounding in the theory and practical application of counselling skills. Students will gain knowledge in theoretical approaches underpinning counselling, as well as experiential skills practice.



Is this course for me?

This course is for those who wish to learn more about the practice and utility of counselling and wish to incorporate counselling knowledge and skills into their existing professional role*. These skills include;



Increased empathy



Active listening skills



Verbal and nonverbal communication



Rapport/relationship building



Goal setting



These skills can be valuable in various professions such as nursing, teaching, social care, leadership roles or youth work.



The Higher Diploma in Science, Counselling Studies is not a professional qualification and does not entitle graduates to practice as professional counsellors. This programme is not accredited by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and does not lead to registration with CORU or any statutory professional regulatory body. As such, the course does not qualify the holder to practice as a professional counsellor.



The course provides an academic knowledge of counselling skills which can enhance an existing professional skill set or support enrolment in further professional counselling qualifications.



Course Structure

The Higher Diploma in Counselling Studies is delivered on a modular basis, with graduation after successful completion of 6 modules. The course will normally take students one to two years to complete. The classroom environment is delivered via a blended learning approach combining the use of online classrooms alongside onsite seminars. Course enrolment: September or January.



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. 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.

Semester Module Details Credits Mandatory / Elective

1 Counselling Skills and Theory 10 Mandatory

1 Cognitive Behavioural Approaches: Concepts and Skills 10 Mandatory

2 Humanistic & Existential Approaches in Counselling 10 Mandatory

2 Supporting Clients through Change 10 Mandatory

3 Body Centred Counselling 10 Mandatory

3 Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Relationships 10 Mandatory

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).

Application Closing Date 14th August 2026

1.5 years part-time blended delivery.



Recommended Study Hours per week

3 hours per week per module.



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.

Start Date: September 2026.

Careers

The Higher Diploma in Science, Counselling Studies is not a professional qualification and does not entitle graduates to practice as professional counsellors. It may improve employment prospects and professional performance in the following areas:



The Voluntary Sector

Health Care settings

Social Care settings

Educational settings

Management/Leadership positions