University Access Programme – National Certificate in General Studies 

Aim of the Course:

This course provides a foundation for those wishing to study at Third level. It gives students the opportunity to build the knowledge, skill and competences required for participation in Higher Education. This includes acquiring a broad range of knowledge for various academic disciplines, and key skills for academic research and enquiry.

Certification:

QQI (fetac) Level 5 General Studies 5M3114

Entry Requirements:

Applicants must possess the Leaving Certificate Established/Leaving Certificate Applied or equivalent. If you are over twenty-one, you can apply to enrol as a mature student on the basis of your age and experience. The learner must be Garda Vetted to avail of college facilities.

Sample Course Content:

Research and Study Skills

Accounting, Manual & Computerised

Work Experience

Communications

Word processing

Safety and Health

Applied Economics

Mathematics

Information and Administration

Note: Modules offered may be subject to change due to resource demands or requirements under the new Common Awards System.

Work Experience:

Students go on various work placements for two weeks to gain experience and to establish contact with prospective employers.

Duration:

One year full-time course from September to May. Classes are timetabled Monday to Friday 9.00 am to end of school day.

Progression/Further Education:

Graduates who achieve the required standard may progress to further studies in IoT’s/Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme. A limited number of places are reserved on a competitive basis on Ordinary Degree (Level 7) and Honours Degree (Level 8) programmes in third level colleges for students who successfully complete a QQI (fetac) Level 5 Course. Please refer to the current Guide to the Higher Education Links Scheme on www.fetac.ie and www.cao.ie

Course Fees:

Please see fees section.

Grants and Social Welfare:

Enquiries regarding maintenance grants: Please check the Student Universal Support System at www.susi.ie and www.studentfinance.ie Social Welfare or the Back to Education Scheme, contact the Department of Family and Social Affairs, Ennis, Co. Clare.

It is imperative that recipients of Social Welfare payments contact the offices of the Department of Family and Social Affairs before commencing this course.

* All programmes are offered subject to sanction by DES and LCETB and minimum enrollment numbers.

About This Course