Course Aim
If you’re like most first-year college students, you may be unsure of your future plans and what you want to study. The College Access Programme accommodates students who want to explore a variety of career fields in one year to identify the best degree/ career path to pursue. The programme provides a selection of studies in social, childcare, healthcare, animal care and computer-related subjects which is beneficial for school leavers, adult learners, working students, and career changers who want to progress to further studies.
Learners will complete a combination of the following:
- Research and Study Skills
- Social Studies
- Animal Grooming
- Care Support
- Child Development and Play
- Understanding Special Needs
- Communications
- Work Experience
- Word Processing
Qualification Obtained
QQI Level 5 Major Award (5M3114) in General Studies
Entry Requirements
All our Level 5 PLC courses are open to school leavers (Leaving Cert/ Leaving Cert Applied Students/A Levels/GCSE or equivalent), QQI Level 4 graduates and mature applicants. A QQI Level 5 award is a prerequisite to access a Level 6 programme
This flexible course will provide learners with the opportunity to develop essential skills, knowledge and competencies suitable for progression to a work environment and/or as a pathway to further studies.
Progression To Degree
DCU | Social Sciences and Cultural Innovation | Level 8
WIT | Applied Healthcare | Level 7
DKIT/AIT | Social Care |Level 8
DCU | Arts & Humanities | Level 8
AIT | Veterinary Nursing | Level 7
DKIT | Digital Humanities | Level 8
DKIT/AIT | Early Years Care & Education | Level 7
Career Prospects
Following the successful completion of the College Access Programme, you may progress to a degree which can lead to a career in:
Social Work | Veterinary Nurse | Health Care Associate | Childcare Practitioner | Personal Assistant | Special Needs Assistant
Student Services Costs: €200
Government Levy (PPC): €200
The following categories of participant are exempt from paying the Government Levy (PPC):
- Full medical Card holders in their own right and their dependent children
- Those who are eligible under the student grant scheme
- Those in receipt of the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA)
QQI Certification Charge:
- QQI Level 5 €50
- QQI Level 6 €80
Fees charged by professional bodies - These will be outlined under Additional fees for applicable courses.
Additional costs which may include: Books, uniforms, equipment and trips.