Certificate Leadership and Community Development (NFQ Level 6)

Programme Overview 

An Cosán in partnership with IT Carlow has developed a blended online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Leadership and Community Development (NFQ Level 7).  Learners who complete Stage 1 at Level 6 of the NFQ (60 credits) are eligible to exit the programme with a “Certificate in Leadership and Community Development” (Minor Award Level 6) or to progress to Higher Certificate (NFQ Level 6) and BA Degree (NFQ Level 7) awards. 
 

Aim of Programme 

The aim of this interdisciplinary 1 year blended online certificate programme is to develop student’s comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the theory, concepts and structures associated with leadership and community development so that they can research, identify, implement, practice and evaluate appropriate interventions for change and advance their own communities. 

Format and Modules at a Glance 

The first Induction day will introduce students to the course content, the technology, as well as one another. Each Module begins with a six-hour face-to-face Saturday Workshop 10.00 – 16.00 followed by 6 weekly online live sessions once a week (day and time will be determined by demand).  We also offer tutorial sessions in the virtual classroom to help learners with their study skills and assignments.  The following modules are included: 

Modules at a Glance:
Stage 1 / 60 ECTS 

*All 6 programmes above are included in the Certificate but the order in which they run may vary. Participants can take modules at their own pace over 1 to 2 years.   

Teaching, Learning and Assessment 

Students will acquire in-depth knowledge and develop research and problem-solving skills through work and enquiry-based learning, more formally structured tuition, and self-directed learning.  They will develop competencies in the following transferable skills: written and oral communication, critical thinking, digital literacy, group collaboration, problem solving, planning & time management.  A variety of assessment methods such as reflective journals, presentations, research projects, portfolios and assignments are used on the programme. 

Learner Supports  

At An Cosán, we support our learners fully so that they can achieve their full potential.  

• Technology moderators provide technical support and encouragement to learners in advance of and during online sessions. 
• Qualified tutors with in-depth classroom experience and subject matter expertise are readily available to discuss programme content. 
• One-to-one online mentors are available throughout the programme. 
• Learners are actively encouraged to support one another and build collaborative learning communities.   

Time commitment 

For accredited programmes, you need to be available for two full day workshops (2 x 6-hour face-to-face workshops) and 8 online sessions (2 hours per week). It is recommended that participants allocate a minimum of 3 hours per week for self-directed study to cover suggested readings and videos. 
* Format may be modified if part of a tailored or Certificate Programme. 

Entry Requirements 

Applicants must be 18 years+.  Applicants should have completed the Leaving Certificate or a QQI (FETAC) Major Award at Level 5 preferably in the area of leadership, community development studies or a related area. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Institute of Technology Carlow policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL). Applicants may be required to attend for an interview.  

Admissions 

We are currently receiving applications for programmes commencing in 2021.  Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come basis.  Closing date for applications is 3 weeks before start date of programme. 

Fees 

All accredited programmes are €300 per module.  The course fee includes a non-refundable deposit of €50 payable to secure a place. Please note that 50% of the fees must be paid upfront with the balance to be paid before the course finishes.  Bursaries and phased payment options available for individual learners.  

Find out more:

• Visit our website
  To access more information on all An Cosán Programmes and to find out about the application process for the Academic Calendar 2021/2022, visit our website: www.ancosan.ie/adult-education/
   
• Join our weekly Open Day / Information Sessions
  If you are considering going back to education this year we invite you to join one of An Cosán’s weekly online Open Day / Information Sessions every Friday at 11am.
  Register to attend on this link: http://bit.ly/AnCosanOpenDays

• Click here to download a copy of An Cosan’s Brochure
• Click here to subscribe to our bi-monthly EZine: Pathways
• Contact a member of our team:
  To register and receive further information on any of our Programmes, please contact our team on:Tel: 01 – 462 8488 | Email: info@ancosan.ie | Visit our website: www.ancosan.ie Address: Kiltalown Village Centre, Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 R3PN