Problem Gambling Addiction
The aim of the programme is to provide the foundational understanding of the lived experience of gambling addiction in contemporary Ireland.
| Award Name | Special Purpose Certificate (Level 8 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Special Purpose |
| Awarding Body | Munster Technological University |
| NFQ Level | Level 8 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Purpose Certificate (Level 8 NFQ) | Special Purpose | Munster Technological University | Level 8 NFQ |
Duration
1 semester, part-time, blended. The course commences in January and there are three onsite Saturdays (24/1/26, 28/2/26 and 18/4/26).
In addition, there are eight Wednesday evening online lectures: 7.00 - 8.30 pm (28/1/26, 4/2/26, 11/2/26, 25/2/26, 4/3/26, 11/3/26, 25/3/26 and 15/4/26).
Course Delivery
The programme is delivered using a blended learning approach to facilitate interested counsellors, and health and social care professionals living nationally to engage in this unique and specialist programme. The programme is structured in a manner that will allow practitioners to engage in continued professional development at their own pace that is flexible around their work schedule. The programme involves a combination of directed study material, including recorded lectures and webinars facilitated by national and international experts in the area of problem gambling, along with live online and on campus workshops.
Location(s): Galilee House of Studies, Kildare, Online.
Entry Requirements
Registered counsellor, health or social care professional (documentary evidence of professional registration required).
OR
Educational qualification at NFQ Level 7.
What is RPL?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is when formal recognition is given for what you already know prior to starting on a programme or module. With recognition of prior learning the focus is on learning and not on experience as such. You can apply for RPL in any MTU accredited programme or module. Programmes which are accredited by professional bodies or any external awarding bodies may have their own procedures for RPL which you should refer to. Go to https://www.mtu.ie/admissions/undergraduate/recognition-of-prior-learning/
Careers / Further progression
Progression
On successful completion of the programme, graduates will have gained 10 credits at NFQ level 8 that can contribute to the achievement of other academic awards. Students may seek exemptions from other relevant major awards in the area of addiction.
Further information
Start Date: January 2027.
Fees for the programme will be €700. The programme is supported by the Gambling Awareness Trust and 70% of fees will be reimbursed on successful completion of the programme. Course fees may be subject to an annual increase.
Application Deadline: 20th November 2026.
To apply online, go to "Application Weblink" above.
Overview
This certificate is a 10 credit, level 8 special purpose award involving a single module (Recognising and Responding to Problem Gambling: Contemporary Approaches) delivered over three months (see more details under the section 'Duration' below) using a blended learning approach (online and face-to-face). The programme is a collaborative development between Munster Technological University and Cuan Mhuire/Galilee House of Studies.
The aim of the programme is to provide the foundational understanding of the lived experience of gambling addiction in contemporary Ireland. It provides participants with the foundational knowledge necessary to develop a therapeutic understanding of gambling addiction, including both theoretical insights and clinical perspectives. The programme is designed to be inclusive of diverse healthcare professionals involved in the provision of care and treatment of individuals with problem gambling addiction, either directly or indirectly.
Module
Recognising and Responding to Problem Gambling: Contemporary Approaches
Ms. Marguerita O’Neill
Department of Nursing and Health Care Sciences
Tel: 353 (0)66 7191694
Email: marguerita.oneill@mtu.ie