Course Duration

1 year, full-time

Course Overview

This programme leads to a qualification in Community and Health Services/Community Care. It is designed to provide learners with an introduction to the area of Health/Social Care, enabling them to acquire the practical and academic skills necessary for further study or immediate employment.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must have passed the Leaving Certificate or LCA.

• Holders of a FETAC Level 4 award are also eligible to apply.

• Mature learners (over 23) may be exempt from the above academic requirements.

Some knowledge of Special Needs would be desirable.

Places are limited and will be allocated on the basis of a personal interview.

Typical Modules

• Human Growth and Development

• Introduction to Nursing

• Communications

• Social Studies

• Word Processing

• Safety and Health at Work

• Understanding Special Needs

• Care, Provision & Practice

• Occupational First Aid

• Work Experience*

^*Work Experience is an integral part of the course. Learners gain experience in different caring environments - Social Care settings, Day Care/Community Centres, Nursing Homes, long-stay hospitals etc. one day per week.

Award

FETAC Level 5 - Community and Health Services [DCHSX]

Progression/Employment Opportunities

• Award holders are qualified to work as Professional Carers in social, health and community care environments.

• Institutes of Technology and other Colleges around the country may be offering opportunities for further studies. Please check with the individual Admissions Offices of any institution you are interested in attending or access:

http://fetac.ie/fetac/learners/hels/hels.htm 

Fees

As an NDP-funded programme, there are no tuition fees. Learners, however, are liable for registration and examination fees. Additionally, learners are expected to supply prescribed class and study materials.

Means-tested maintenance grants are available.