Graduates of this course can apply to continue onto the second and third trimester to the Major Award of Higher Diploma in Pscyhotherapy studies. Graduates of the Higher Diploma can make an informed decision on a modality of psychotherapy in which to train and may be interested in applying for one of the four clinical training MSc programmes offered by UCD Psychotherapy.
This course is available through the following application route(s)
This one trimester programme provides an introduction to the major modalities of psychotherapy, to psychoanalysis and to psychiatric/mental health practice.
Programme Outcomes
- Demonstrate understanding of the fundamental principles of the major modalities of psychotherapy
- Demonstrate knowledge of the differences between the different forms of psychotherapy practice
- Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant pioneers of different practice of psychotherapy
- Demonstrate appreciation of the requirement in the major forms of psychotherapy for the practitioner to undergo the form of work
- Demonstrate understanding of the application of psychotherapy practice
- Critically assess published clinical material as presented on the programme
- Critically assess the application of appropriate research methodologies to the field of psychotherapy
- Develop skills for working with fellow-students in groups for assessment exercises on psychotherapy topics
With the Irish State in the process of State Registration, there is growing recognition of the value of psychotherapy as a clinical intervention which invites a person to work on the questions that unsettle, depress or mentally disturb them. Academic qualification at postgraduate level is becoming an integral part of a professional career pathin psychotherapy and a knowledge of the different modalities of psychotherapy is strongly recommended. This course is taught by very experienced practitioner- teachers and:
-Provides a solid introduction to different modalities in psychotherapy
Provides an academic foundation in the theoretical and clinical literature in the field
- Provides a pathway on to the Major Award of Higher Diploma in Psychotherapy Studies
Programme location
All teaching takes place in the School of Psychotherapy within the Department of Psychiatry,
Psychotherapy and Mental Health Research, St Camillus Ward, Lower Ground Floor,
St Vincent’s University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4.
Programme Structure
The course takes place on Tuesday afternoons from 4.00-8.00pm over the academic year, beginning in early September and concluding in December. There is a one week mid term break in this trimester.
About This Course
Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.
Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.
| Trimester | Credits | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Stage 1 Core Modules |
MDCS30010 | Theoretical Overview of the Psychotherapies | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
MDCS30020 | The Therapeutic Relationship in Psychotherapy | Autumn | 5 |
Stage 1 Core Modules |
PSCO30020 | Research & Clinical Applications 1 | Autumn | 10 |
For more information on course fees please visit the Fees & Grants Office website: https://www.ucd.ie/students/fees/
Part Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants: No
Graduates with Level 8 (NFQ) BA or BSc, or equivalent Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), are eligible to apply for the Level 8 Certificate.
The Certificate can provide a very important knowledge of psychotherapy practices for anyone with a role in social care, teaching or health services. This course will also be of great interest to those with a curiosity about the field of psychotherapy.
This course has also been recommended for psychiatrists and other medical practitioners involved in leadership of Multi-Disciplinary Teams; and for managers in the health and social care services.
No previous study of psychotherapy or cognate fields such as health social care or psychology is required.
How to Apply
General application route(s) for Irish/UK/EU applicants* for International (non-EU) applicants* to Psychotherapy Studies:
| ROWCLASS | Apply to |
|---|---|
| showAudience-audienceEU showAudience-audienceInt | XA23 Psychotherapy Studies University Certificate Full-Time Commencing September 2025 Undergraduate Cert and Diploma Not available to International applicantsApply |
* you can change options at the top of the page