Mindfulness Based Practice - PG Cert

Course Fact File

• Code: PCMBP
• Duration: Seven Months
• Teaching Mode: Part-Time
• Qualifications: PG Cert
• NFQ Level: Level 9
• NFQ Award Title: Minor
• Fees: €1,700
• Closing Date: 22 August 2025
• Next Intake: November 2025
• Venue: Delivered Fully Online - Thursday evenings and occasional Friday and Saturdays.
• Start Date: November 2025

Course Outline

This Post Graduate Certificate in Mindfulness Based Practice is run over seven months, fully online. The programme supports the student to develop a committed mindfulness practice in their own lives. This practice enables the student to manage stress more effectively, improve interpersonal skills and enhance self-awareness. The programme includes an eight-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course which incorporates elements of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. For those who have already completed an 8-week mindfulness programme, it serves as an excellent follow-up programme. This PG Cert examines both the eastern philosophy and the western psychology of mindfulness and supports the student by enhancing their reflective skills through practice and enquiry. The programme explores the use of mindfulness in settings such as healthcare, education, social care, the workplace, family, and relationships.

This PG Cert acts as an ideal preparation for those who wish to progress to the MSC in Mindfulness Based Wellbeing and become a mindfulness teacher.

Course Practicalities

The Post Graduate Certificate in Mindfulness Based Practice is run fully online and so can be completed from home. The programme requires a committed personal practice of formal and informal mindfulness outside of lecture times.

Modules

• AP6807: Mindfulness and Reflective Practice (5 credits)
• AP6808: Enquiry into Mindfulness Practice (15 credits)
• AP6817: Mindfulness Practice (10 credits)

Why Choose This Course

There are many programmes throughout the country that offer an eight-week course in mindfulness; however, this is the first programme of its kind in Ireland that offers the student a sustained support in learning and embedding their mindfulness practice into daily life. Through the programme, the student learns how mindfulness can be brought into healthcare, education, social care, the workplace, family, and relationships. Research in these settings demonstrates that training in mindfulness can lead to a significant reduction of stress levels, an increase in levels of emotional intelligence, increased levels of interpersonal effectiveness, lower rates of health-related absenteeism, increased self-awareness, better communication skills, increased concentration and attention span, a greater capacity to hold information, lower levels of psychological distress and anxiety along with higher levels of well-being, resilience, and overall life and work satisfaction.

This programme critically examines the empirical research undertaken in these areas and evaluates the implications of this for contemporary society. It provides the student the opportunity to establish a committed mindfulness practice and to deepen their understanding of Mindfulness Based Interventions.

Requirements

• Applicants should hold a level eight honours degree or an equivalent qualification or professional qualification within a relevant field such as healthcare, education, social care, family care, or workplace development.
• Or have at least five years of relevant experience within the workplace, healthcare, social care, family care, or education, for those who have a degree outside of these areas.
• An interview forms an important element in assessing a candidate's suitability for the programme; final decision on the inclusion of a candidate onto the programme will be determined by this process.

Fees and Costs

€1,700

For further information on fees and financial supports, please refer to the relevant section.

How To Apply

IT Student Checklist

• You will need access to a laptop or desktop computer running a modern supported operating system with all software updates.
• Some of UCC’s services (e.g., the Canvas Virtual Learning Environment) link to an external site and also have mobile apps for iOS and Android Devices that you may wish to use as part of your studies. However, we recommend using your desktop web browser for submission of assessments.
• You should always use the most current version of your preferred browser. In general, we recommend the Chrome Web browser (Important Note: Internet Explorer will not work with Canvas).
• We recommend a reliable broadband connection with at least 2Mbps or more.
• You will require an Office suite of software (Microsoft Office or equivalent) and a PDF reader. You should always use the latest version of this software. All UCC students will have access to Office 365 which includes software such as Word/Excel/Powerpoint etc. once registered.

Application Process

• When you log into the Application Portal:
  • Click Apply Online
  • Select Start a new Adult & Continuing Education Application
  • On the 2nd tab Academic Level
    • Select the following options:
      • Academic Level: Adult Continuing Education (ACE at UCC)
      • Course Type: ACE Part-time Courses
      • Academic Programme: The course title you are applying for.
• During your online application, you will be required to upload the following documents:
  • Application Statement
  • Birth Cert or Passport
  • Passport Photograph
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • English Language Test Report [if applicable]
  • Transcripts [if applicable]
  • 50% of the fees are required to complete your application.

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Degree Overview:

This Postgraduate Certificate in Mindfulness Based Practice and Research is a seven-month, fully online program designed to help students develop a committed mindfulness practice in their own lives. The program aims to equip students with the skills to manage stress more effectively, improve interpersonal skills, and enhance self-awareness. It includes an eight-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course incorporating elements of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. The program is suitable for those who have already completed an eight-week mindfulness program and serves as an excellent follow-up. It examines both the eastern philosophy and the western psychology of mindfulness, supporting students by enhancing their reflective skills through practice and inquiry. The program explores the use of mindfulness in various settings, including healthcare, education, social care, the workplace, family, and relationships. This PG Cert acts as an ideal preparation for those who wish to progress to the MSc in Mindfulness Based Wellbeing and become a mindfulness teacher.

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Outline:

The program is delivered fully online and requires a committed personal practice of formal and informal mindfulness outside of lecture times. It consists of three modules:

• AP6808: Enquiry into Mindfulness Practice (15 credits): This module delves deeper into the practice of mindfulness, encouraging students to engage in self-reflection and inquiry.
• AP6817: Mindfulness Practice (10 credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to further develop their mindfulness practice and explore its application in various contexts.
The program is delivered on Thursday evenings with occasional Friday and Saturday sessions.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a combination of academic and reflective assignments, allowing students to engage with both research and personal practice. Students are encouraged to draw on research to inform their practice. The assessment also includes an online presentation where students present their learning from the program.

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Teaching:

The program is taught by staff from ACE and the School of Psychology at UCC. The program is delivered fully online, allowing students to learn at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes.

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Careers:

The program provides students with the skills and knowledge to apply mindfulness in various settings, including healthcare, education, social care, the workplace, family, and relationships. It also prepares students for further study in mindfulness-based interventions, such as the MSc in Mindfulness Based Wellbeing, which can lead to a career as a mindfulness teacher.

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Other:

The program is the first of its kind in Ireland to offer sustained support in learning and embedding mindfulness practice into daily life. Research in various settings demonstrates that training in mindfulness can lead to significant benefits, including:

• Reduced stress levels
• Increased emotional intelligence
• Enhanced interpersonal effectiveness
• Lower rates of health-related absenteeism
• Increased self-awareness
• Improved communication skills
• Increased concentration and attention span
• Lower levels of psychological distress and anxiety
• Higher levels of well-being, resilience, and overall life and work satisfaction.
The program critically examines the empirical research undertaken in these areas and evaluates its implications for contemporary society. It provides students with the opportunity to establish a committed mindfulness practice and deepen their understanding of Mindfulness Based Interventions.

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€1,600

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.