Course Summary
Course Category: PLC (Further Education - FET) - Apply directly to College
This is a one-year course designed to meet the needs of students wishing to prepare for third level. It introduces students to methods of study and IT skills, in addition to writing and research skills that are required for successful participation in third level education. This programme was designed to give learners the foundation skills to excel in a college course of their choice. It may be appealing to those who are unsure of what they wish to study or those who wish to gain extra skills before they start their college course. It also suits learners who wish to defer their college place for a year and acquire excellent IT and research skills, and is also suitable for mature learners.
The course enables students to develop both academically and personally, improving critical thinking and analytical skills in project based learning, with practical skills workshops developing their individual, interpersonal, teamworking and problem solving skills.
Course Details
This course prepares you for working in the following Career Sectors:
What will you study?
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Research and Study Skills 5N3113
Spreadsheet Methods 5N1977
Database Methods 5N0783
Communications 5N0690
The Internet 5N1611
Information and Communication Systems 5N1952
Word Processing 5N1358
Work Experience or 5N1356
Personal and Professional Development 5N2985
Important
- Colleges may add/remove modules to keep the course updated and to meet demands.
- Almost all PLC courses have a Work Experience module, which requires students to find their own placement in an area directly related to their course.
Progression to CAO Courses
Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS)
This course results in a QQI Major Award, and provides progression opportunities to a number of Higher Education courses, including those in the CAO.
To view CAO courses to which this award provides a direct progression route, click below:
QQI Code
To calculate Points based on your QQI award results, use the PLC Points Calculator.
The Student - Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Further Research
National Statistics for this Award (All Ireland)
The following data provides general information about this Award from colleges across Ireland.
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