Maria lectures on WIT's Social Care programmes, both full and part-time (ACCS), in addition to modules on the Early Childhood Studies, Criminal Justice, Arts, Psychology and Social Science degree courses and as a placement lecturer, has supported Social Care students undertaking their practice placements. Maria's dual role with lecturing is that of Long Arm Placement Supervisor; this involves providing regular professional supervision to social care students on placement as well as support to their practice supervisors.
Maria is undertaking postgraduate research in WIT; her principal research area is historic abuse in Ireland's State and religious institutions.
Maria gained a wealth of administrative and organisational experience during her years working firstly in the Irish Civil Service in Dublin and later in large multinational companies in London and Australia. When returning to education as a mature student, Maria opted for WIT's Social Care programme as this complemented her roles in voluntary and community organisations. As a qualified social care worker, she worked in day and residential services for adults with intellectual disabilities and autism. She also has practice experience supporting marginalised and disadvantaged children and young adults, women experiencing domestic abuse, people in the criminal justice system, asylum seekers, the Traveller community, those affected by substance misuse, and parents with children in foster care.