Guidance Counselling & Lifespan Development

Key programme benefits to future students

This programme is approved by the Department of Education for the purpose of appointment as a Guidance Counsellor in post-primary, further and adult education



The MA provides a professional qualification in guidance counselling. It provides training in the required knowledge, skills and competencies in the areas of personal, social, educational and career guidance across the lifespan.



The programme also provides opportunities for personal development and facilitates a reflective approach to practice. The emphasis on personal development stems from the idea that connecting to one’s own career story and understanding one’s own history, values and beliefs; we become better positioned to support others in their career journeys.



Key Fact: The focus of the MA is to qualify practicing teachers and other professionals to become qualified guidance counsellors.

Year 1

Autumn Modules

• Counselling Theory and Practice 1

• Professional Practice in Guidance Counselling (Blended)



Spring Modules

• Contemporary Perspectives on Vocational Development and Progression across the Lifespan (Blended)

• Theory and Skills of Experiential Group Learning



Summer Modules

• Theory and Practice of Psychological Assessment



Year 2

Autumn Modules

• Counselling Theory and Practice 2

• Advanced Research Methods in Guidance Counselling (Blended)

• Practicum 1: Practice Placement



Spring Modules

• Practicum 2: Practice Placement

• Dissertation 1



Summer Modules

• Dissertation 2

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in Education or a discipline such as psychology, social and community work, human resources and health sciences, or a Higher Diploma/Professional Masters in Education, or an equivalent teaching qualification.



The university will shortlist applicants and invite those shortlisted to an interview. Offers will be made following a successful interview.



Garda clearance is required

Other Entry Considerations:



We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet the standard entry requirements, as long as you can show that you have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for the programme.



At UL, we value all kinds of learning and support different ways to qualify through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

2 years part time, blended.

Graduate careers

Students come from a diverse range of backgrounds and go on to work in many different sectors, such as second level schools, adult guidance, youth and community work, third level career services, employment services, industry and private practice.