Executive Development - Advanced Business & Executive Coaching

This unique part-time, fully-accredited diploma programme is designed for experienced coaches looking to take their coaching to the next level. It focuses on the psychological dimension of coaching, developing participants ’ability to “raise coachee’s awareness of their ingrained patterns of behaviour”, the most important quality required of coaches by sponsors in large organisations.



A key feature is the focus on personal development, rooted in the firm belief that it is vital for participants to have personal experience of challenging their own ingrained patterns of behaviour as a basis for working effectively with clients. The combination of theory, practice, personal and professional development transforms participants’ ability to work more deeply and effectively with their clients. To ensure participants get the most out of the programme, you must be a practising coach, with a minimum of 2-3 clients (paying/pro bono) who you meet on a monthly basis.

Workshop Title

Module 1: The Person -Centred Approach

Module 2: Psychodynamic Approaches

Module 3: Gestalt Approaches

Module 4: Transactional Analysis

Module 5: System and Field

Module 6: Existential Approaches



Please note - 100% attendance is required at all modules. Should you miss a module due to

unexpected circumstances, there is no longer an option to take that module with another intake of the

programme – visit www.smurfitschool.ie/executivedevelopment/contactus/faqs/ for full details.

Timing: Typically 9.00am to 5.00pm on both days

Participants should have at least 5 years management experience, hold a primary degree and have completed the UCD Diploma in Business & Executive Coaching or another accredited Business Coaching programme. Consideration will also be given to applicants who do not fully meet this requirement but have substantial experience in business coaching.



A completed application form, digital photograph and copy of transcripts for all university-level degrees (if applicable and excluding those taken at UCD) will be required. A telephone interview with the Programme Director may form part of the application process. The interview helps determine whether the programme is the most appropriate educational solution for the applicant.

To apply for this programme, please contact Annabelle Phelan, who would be delighted to discuss the application procedure with you further.



annabelle.phelan@ucd.ie

+353 87 098 5117

10 months.

Delivery: 2 Days x 6 Workshops.

Next intake 25th March 2026

This diploma forms part of the MSc in Business and Executive Coaching Pathway.



As Ireland’s premier provider of executive development open programmes, we can help you master the right skills for the most complex global business challenges with our unique and flexible MSc pathway.



If you’re an experienced professional who wants to continue in your chosen career while undertaking part-time study, then this flexible MSc pathway option will offer you the very best learning experience and a world-class qualification.