New skills for new futures: a comparative review of higher education guidance and counselling services in the European Union

The main results are presented of a study of thehigher education guidance and counselling services inthe Member-States of the European Union. The changingcontext of higher education in Europe, and itsimplications for guidance and counselling services,are discussed. The main trends in the development ofsuch services are outlined, including the results ofa task analysis covering the main guidance andcounselling roles. Implications forprofessinalisation and for training and professionaldevelopment are reviewed. It is suggested that aEuropean Master's degree could be a valuablecomplement to national training and qualificationstructures.