National Tour Guiding

Certificate

Course Details

Course Code	LL_RNTGU_S
Level	6
Duration	18 weeks
Credits	30
Method of Delivery	On-campus
Campus Locations	Donegal – Killybegs
Mode of Delivery	Part Time

How to Apply

How to Apply

Course Overview

Are you interested in working in the tourism activity sector providing a range of professional guiding services for visitors? Would you like to deliver and manage a comprehensive tour management and guiding service for tourists visiting and travelling in Ireland, then the Certificate in National Tour Guiding programme is designed for you.

Successful participants will be eligible to register on the National Database of Tour Guides and they will also be eligible to apply for a Regional Guide Badge and a National Guide Badge issued by Fáilte Ireland.

On successful completion of this programme graduates will have the ability to:
• Understand the role of a tour manager.
• Manage and conduct tours on behalf of a tour operator/provider or as a self-employed guide.
• Plan national itineraries and commentaries.
• Operate as a professional regional and national tour guide.
• Understand the tourism activity sector at regional, national and international level;
• Be aware of changing market profiles nationally and internationally.
• Guide a range of special interest groups.
• Conduct safe tours in compliance with health and safety legislation.
• Utilise digital media to enhance the tour experience.
• Critically appraise effective solutions to operational problems.
• Operate with due consideration of the sustainable agenda.

Course Details

Year 1

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Irish History, Culture & Heritage The aim of this module is to enable the learner to have a broad understanding of the history, culture and heritage of Ireland. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the scope and importance of the Irish heritage product to Irish tourism. 2. Explain the natural formation processes and influences on the Irish landscape. 3. Discuss the elements of Irish culture and how it has evolved over time. 4. Define the development of Ireland from pre-Christian to modern times. 5. Illustrate awareness of selected cultural and natural heritage assets. 6. Identify major Irish historical, cultural and heritage events, festivals, and tourist attractions.	10	Mandatory
2	Guiding Learners will be introduced to the blend of knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective regional tourist guide. Students will develop their local area knowledge and stories and communicate these via various means. Learners will actively participate in various practical regional guided experiences implementing their learning on interpretation, group management and health and safety. This module promotes a sustainable ethos and the national code of practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the role and responsibilities of the guide 2. Develop local and regional tour itineraries. 3. Organise and deliver local and regional tours. 4. Display effective communication skills and interpretive ability. 5. Present regional/local heritage, culture and historical product knowledge via a variety of methods. 6. Assess risk and display safety compliance and environmental awareness in guiding.	10	Mandatory
2	Tour Management in Ireland This module will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enable them become effective tour managers in Ireland. Learning Outcomes 1. Define the role and responsibilities of the tour manager. 2. Discuss the context of the Irish tourism sector. 3. Illustrate awareness of national attractions, key geographic features and destinations. 4. Describe appropriate introductory commentary on national routes. 5. Demonstrate an awareness of appropriate operational and administrative procedures at every stage ofthe extended tour in a range of circumstances. 6. Establish and use selected social media platforms to enhance professional profile and practice.	10	Mandatory

Recommended Study Hours per week

It is recommended that students should try to allow for 10-12 hours study per week per 10-credit module.

Examination and Assessment

Coursework and final exam.

On-Campus Attendance Requirement

Killybegs Campus.

Download a prospectus

Undergraduate Prospectus Online, Flexible & Professional Development Prospectus

Entry Requirements

Minimum Points Score 160 Minimum Five O6/H7 English or Irish O6/H7.

Have obtained a full QQI FET Level 5 award in any discipline.

Candidates who do not meet the above entry requirements may be admitted to the programme on the grounds of mature years (23 years old on or before 1 January in the proposed year of entry) if they are deemed to have attained appropriate education and experience.

Fees

Total Fees EU: €1200

Further information on fees

Careers

Graduate careers typically include, Events Coordinator, Sales & Marketing Executive, Tour Guide, and Travel Advisor.

Further Information

Who Should Apply?

This programme is suitable for anyone interested in working in the tourism activity sector providing a range of professional guiding services for visitors. It is also suitable for anyone interested in delivering and managing a comprehensive tour management and guiding service for tourists visiting and travelling in Ireland.