This programme is mainly taught in Norwegian.

Counselling

The purpose of the study is to provide students with the skills necessary to help persons develop some insight into their own situation and how it can be improved. The study involves two main perspectives: one perspective with an individual focus which emphasizes the relationship between counsellor and client, and one perspective with a group focus where the emphasis is on counselling directed toward groups, teams, families and organizations.

A particular emphasis will be placed on the broad function and applicability of counselling, and will qualify students for counsellor and advisor jobs within the educational system as well as within other arenas.

Student environment

The academic student environment at the Department of Education and Lifelong Learning is characterized by active students. The master's programme in Counselling has several compulsory elements (including practical-methodical communication training with video-based counselling interviews, group process course and external practice) which create a close relationship between the students. 

Career opportunities

This degree also qualifies for counselling and advisory work in the private and public sectors. In the public sector, it provides an excellent foundation for work in the educational psychological counselling service and other counselling and advisory services for instance in the local government, health sector and social sector, depending on the candidate's former education. In combination with teacher education qualifications, the Master's degree provides highly profound qualifications for school counselling. The degree is also relevant for work within the areas special pedagogics and school management, but also in general within human resources management. Within project management there is for instance particular need for counselling for interdisciplinary teams. Within health, safety and environment, the need for counselling and advice is substantial. Advisory skills are important for management tasks such as appraisal interviews, dispute resolution, system thinking, innovation, cooperation training, etc. which are relevant for the public and private sectors. In the consultancy industry, the need for counselling and advisory qualifications is major.

Why Counselling?

This study is suited for students who would like to work with counselling and advisory tasks in schools, other public institutions and the private sector. Within business, there is an increasing need for counselling and advisory qualifications. Understanding communication patterns, being able to arrange efficient work environments and good work practice, developing cooperative teams and staff resources are sought-after qualifications. This programme also provides opportunities to apply for admission for a PhD degree in Education. NTNU is the only university in Norway offering a Master's degree in Counselling.

Programme structure

Master of Science in Councelling consists of compulsory and elective courses, and a master's thesis (30 ECTS). For further information about the courses, please consult the course descriptions. Please note that the language of instruction is mostly Norwegian and that you have to meet the Norwegian language requirements in order to attend the programme.