About Certificate in General Studies (Foundation Certificate) *

What is the Certificate in General Studies?

Many adults who have no prior experience of higher education would like the opportunity to enjoy a third level education. Whether it is to satisfy your desire for more knowledge or to improve your employment prospects, the Certificate in General Studies has been designed with you in mind. Once completed, you will have a solid foundation from which you can pursue a range of subjects typically taught in Irish universities, Institutes of Technology and other third
level colleges.

Even if you completed the Leaving Certificate some time ago, or not at all, all you need to succeed are a passion to return to education and basic literacy skills.

We will introduce you to a number of important, relevant and different disciplines. We will also:

• increase your self-confidence in your ability to advance within third level education
• introduce you to the required methods of study, writing and research
• prepare you to communicate clearly and with confidence, orally and in writing, and to use basic word-processing and keyboard skills where appropriate.

At the same time, we will help you to make informed choices about further study in your elective areas, and encourage you to appreciate
the joy of learning.

Aims and Objectives

What will I be able to do when I graduate?

You will have the opportunity and the skills to continue your education. This programme is validated by FETAC, and is designated as one of the “Minimum Entry Requirements” in relation to admission to a range of Higher Certificate, Ordinary Degree and Honours Degree programmes, at IADT or other Higher Education Institutions.

What will I study?

Core modules include: Information Technology, Mathematics, Writing and
Study Skills, and Communications. Elective modules: Business Studies, English Literature, Psychology and Science (choose 3).

What are the Entry Requirements?

• You must be 22 years of age or over, and wish to further your education at a third level institution.
• If interested, you must apply directly to IADT.
• Applicants are selected on the basis of information provided on the application form and an interview.

What is the closing date?

Applications must be made directly to IADT by 4pm on Friday, 8th May 2009. Should places be available after that date, a second round
of applications will be accepted until Friday, 21st August 2009.

What are the fees?

Any queries relating to these, please contact our Admissions Office 01 2394621

Quote: “The programme provides a great foundation for further study and it has contributed to the students’ self-development and enhanced their confidence. Their performance is a tribute to all involved” – Michele Kehoe, External Examiner

Student Profile: Liz Murphy
After having spent 27 years working in Aer Lingus in a considered “glamorous job”, I did some research and decided that education was for me. When I was offered a redundancy package, I decided to avail of the offer and return to education. Through an ad in a local newspaper, I became aware of this programme in IADT and made my application.

I started in early September and I found the experience to be inspiring. I found my classmates to be enthusiastic and encouraging and a great sense of camaraderie developed. Our group of teachers was exceptional encouraging people, who seemed to possess endless patience. Learning to study after a lifetime away
was a daunting task but with their help, I managed to get through.

For myself, I find I am more observant, more aware of others and my surroundings and sometimes critical of people in the media. This is something I would never have envisaged myself doing, but I find my personal life more rewarding and sometimes I am capable of helping others. I feel I can encourage people to see issues in a new light.

My ambition is to move on to third level education and to end up with a degree. This Certificate has prepared and encouraged me for this journey and I am grateful to IADT for giving me this great opportunity.