View all Courses
Access for Higher Education
Certificate
Course Details
Course Code | LL_HPREP_S |
---|---|
Level | 6 |
Duration | 1 Year |
Credits | 60 |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Course Overview
The Certificate in Access for Higher Education is designed to provide participants with an alternative route into university. On successful completion of this programme, participants are eligible to apply for undergraduate programmes across ATU (quotas apply on some programmes.) This Access for Higher Education course is intended for students who wish to return to study at third level, but who need time and knowledge to get up the speed with the demands of education format.
This course is free of charge for students.
Programme Structure
Semester 1 – all compulsory modules
Learning skills & Personal Development
Application of Numbers
ICT
College Skills & Career Planning
Semester 2 – Students choose to take either the Humanities or STEM Stream, there are two compulsory and two elective modules per Stream.
**Only modules with sufficient demand from students will be offered**
Humanities Stream:
Research Fundamentals (Compulsory)
Academic Writing (Compulsory)
Business & Law (Elective)
Intro. To Design Principles (Elective)
Social Care & Education (Elective)
STEM Stream:
Maths (Compulsory)
Academic Writing (Compulsory)
Intro. to Computing (Elective)
Intro. to Engineering (Elective)
Science (Elective)
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Application of NumbersThe aims of this module are to: Reinforce application of number skills. Students who have successfully completed, ordinary level maths or foundation GCSE Mathematics should find this familiar. To enhance learners' skills on application of number processes with ICT assistance To further learners' ability to handle all of forms of number precedence operations To promote learners' competence and confidence in mathematics Learning Outcomes 1. Carry out routine computational procedures to appropriate levels of accuracy |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Learning Skills & Personal DevelopmentThe aim of this module is to prepare students with a range of academic skills in preparation for entry into third level. Students will be introduced to a range of core skills needed to progress confidently in their academic career. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise and use learning strategies best suited to their own particular learning style. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Information Communications TechnologyThis module will provide the learner with practical knowledge of computer applications that are used today in the business environment as well as providing a basic theoretical overview of the components of PC. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the basic components of a PC |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
College Skills & Career PlanningThe aims of the module is to support the students in their career journey, both academic and vocational. This is facilitated digitally and in class. Students engage with an online portal and in-class practical work allowing them to find confidence in their future career choices. Students will also be equipped with knowledge of supports within the ATU to assist them in their academic career. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the range of supports available to students in a college campus |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Academic WritingThe aims of the module are to develop students’ understanding and awareness of the importance of good academic writing skills for successful learning and for life. To equip students with the necessary skills to become more effective and confident academic communicators. To help students become more aware of themselves as academic communicators and move towards becoming more autonomous as writers. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the main purpose of a communication and relate its form to the purpose |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Maths For STEMThe aims of this module are: Reinforce mathematical knowledge and skills To enhance learners' problem-solving and interpretation skills, with ICT assistance To further learners' ability to handle abstractions and generalisations To promote learners' competence and confidence in mathematics Learning Outcomes 1. Carry out routine and advanced computational procedures to appropriate levels of accuracy |
05 | Elective |
2 |
ComputingThe aim of this module is to introduce students to the basics of computing and to equip the learner with a knowledge of the fundamentals of computer programming. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify & describe the basic components of a Computer and their relationship to each other |
10 | Elective |
2 |
ScienceThis module takes an integrative approach to the study of the natural sciences and examines the impact that the three classical sciences have on the modern world. The programme is ideally suited to those who have no formal qualification in science and to those wishing to improve or revise their knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics. This module will also afford students the opportunity to complete some science experiments to apply their theory and skills learned. Providing a firm introduction to science fundamentals, the module prepares students for further study in a wide range of science-based disciplines. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop scientific abilities and skills relevant to the study of science |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Introduction to EngineeringThis module will provide the learner with a perspective of what a career in engineering could entail. The learner will become familiarised with some of the physical principles that underpin engineering. They will also be initiated with mathematical skills that first year engineering students may be asked to draw upon. Furthermore, the learner will become acquainted with the main sectors of engineering that they may like to follow. Learners are given an introduction to high-level concepts through a mix of lectures, demonstration and guided portfolio work. Learning Outcomes 1. Appreciate how engineering and construction has a contribution to the world we live in. |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Research FundamentalsThis course is designed to introduce students to key research methods and analysis techniques. This will be achieved by providing opportunities to explore a topic of interest and thus, through seeking both reliable and relevant sources and data, will allow students to both develop essential research skills and further their knowledge as a result. Students will understand the importance of choosing high quality sources, and will be able to locate such research independently for their studies. Furthermore, they will be able to reflect on this process for future personal and professional development during class discussions. Learning Outcomes 1. Effectively plan and execute approaches to research; |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Business & LawThis module explores the relationship between law and business. Students will learn about different business environments, management and leadership skills, and the entrepreneurial and innovation process in a classroom setting. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of legal and business principles and rules. |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Introduction to Design PrinciplesThis module aims to develop the learners’ observational, analytical and recording skills, while also introducing them to the core principles of design and design technologies. Learning Outcomes 1. Observe and record visual information using a variety of media |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Social Care & EducationThe module will provide opportunities for the students to examine and explore issues and topics related to education, health, and contemporary social, political, and cultural issues. Learning Outcomes 1. Provide students the necessary knowledge and values required to work in environments where they are likely to encounter children and vulnerable persons using case studies and activities, to encourage understanding and good practice. |
10 | Elective |
2 |
Tourism & SportThis module introduces students to the core concepts in Tourism and Sport studies. Students will learn about the key components of the tourism product and the key elements of the tourism product offering in Ireland. Further, students will be introduced to the fundamental principles of training and a healthy lifestyle while appreciating the complexities of key health related issues, barriers and challenges. Learning Outcomes 1. Examine key concepts and components of the tourism and hospitality industry. |
10 | Elective |
Recommended Study Hours per week
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Over 19 years by 1st of January in the proposed academic year of entry and have successfully completed at least 5 subjects in the Irish Leaving Certificate (or an equivalent international exam). Maths and either English or Irish are required.
OR
Candidates who do not meet the above entry requirement may be admitted to the programme on the grounds of mature years (Over 23 by 1st January in the proposed year of entry.
OR
Leaving Certificate Applied/FETAC Level 5.
To facilitate direct entry onto this course LCA applicants are required to have achieved 160 credits out of 200 in their final exam.
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
This course is intended for students who have little or no formal education qualifications – for example, Junior or Leaving Certificate – who would like to ultimately continue to third level education.
Start Date
Application Closing Date
Contact Information
Brian McGonagle
Access Coordinator
E: brian.mcgonagle@atu.ie
T: +353 (0)74 918 6175
Law, Public Service & Education