View all Courses
Community Development Practice
Certificate
Course Details
Course Code | LY_SCDYD_N06 |
---|---|
Level | 6 |
Duration | 15 weeks |
Credits | 10 |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Part Time |

Course Overview
The Certificate in Community Development Practice is recognised by AIEB (All Ireland Endorsement Body for Community Work Education and Training).
The Certificate in Community Development Practice provides an introductory education for both emerging and existing community development practitioners. The programme equips learners with a strong understanding of the values and principles of community development as a distinct professional approach while exploring the role and function of community development workers in supporting marginalised communities.
It also focuses on developing practical skills in group work, facilitation, and ethical practice within community settings. Through a combination of theoretical and applied learning, participants will gain the knowledge and competencies necessary to engage effectively in community work for inclusion, empowerment, and social change.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
2 |
Introduction to Community DevelopmentThis module seeks to introduce the learner to the principles and theories of community development. The module will attempt to provide the learner with an initial understanding of the philosophy and principles of community development. It will explore the historical development of community development in Ireland and how the process of community development has been and continues to be a powerful driver of social change in Ireland. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a knowledge of the philosophy of community development and how it relates to sustainability and youth work. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Group Dynamics and DevelopmentThe aim of the module is to work with learners to gain theoretical knowledge, competencies and practical skills pertaining to group work in community and youth work settings. This will include the concepts of working ethically with different groups, service participants, community members, colleagues and within multi-disciplinary teams. The module explores group formation, group boundaries, group agreements, group dimensions and task and process. Groups and teams will be defined and the importance of boundaries, ethics, roles including leadership, communication skills, verbal, non-verbal, active listening and conflict resolution skills will be examined. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of why people join groups |
05 | Mandatory |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements are those stated by the university in its Access, Transfer and Progression Policy at any given time.
Leaving Certificate- Grade O6/H7 or better in five Leaving Certificate subjects. Leaving Certificate must include English or Irish and Mathematics. Maths at F2 is acceptable to meet the minimum Maths entry requirement. Irish at F2 is acceptable to meet the minimum language requirements.
OR
A Full level 5/6 QQI award
OR
Mature applicants – (aged 23 on or before 1st January of the course commencement year). These applicants do not have to meet the minimum entry requirements listed here and are considered on an individual basis (previous education, work experience, and demonstration of competence to undertake the programme)
OR
Access programme (LCA students can gain access to this programme following completion of an access programme)
OR
An applicant who is a minimum of 17 years of age with at least 2 years post Junior Certificate relevant experience. All applicants must demonstrate that they would qualify for the special rate of maintenance grant under the Student Grant Scheme (SUSI) and/or are in receipt of a Department of Social Protection (DSP) long-term means-tested social welfare payment and/or be from one or more of the priority groups or from any priority group identified as part of the next National Access Plan (2022-2028).
Applicants must demonstrate competence to undertake the programme.
Selection is based on:
• Work and/or life experience
• Extracurricular involvement relevant to community work
• Motivation and interest in community development
• Prior learning in formal or informal settings
Careers
Graduates of this programme can progress into roles such as:
Community Development Worker/Community Worker
Youth Worker
Advocacy Worker
Peer Support Worker
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
Open to individuals with relevant professional or voluntary experience in community, social care, education, or advocacy work. Designed for those looking to enhance their skills or transition into community development roles.
Application Closing Date
Start Date
Contact Information
Department of Early Education and Social Studies
E: Nigel.McKelvey@atu.ie
T: 0749186309
Early Education & Social Studies