Course Summary
This programme aims to provide those working in the areas of nursing, health and social care with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively deal with drugs and alcohol issues.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements are a Level 8 Honours degree in a relevant discipline such as Health and Social Care, Nursing, Social Work, Youth Work, Psychology, Medicine etc. Applicants may be required to undertake an interview. Applicants who do not hold the above entry requirements may be considered using the ATU RPL process.
Application Details
Flexible learning courses are popular, and they fill on a first come, first served basis. There are two major intake periods throughout the academic year, September and January.
For January start courses, applications typically open in October, and for September start courses, applications typically open in February. Closing dates for applications are listed on the individual course webpage.
Start Date: September 2025.
Fees
Total Fees: €6300
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Many of our Masters programmes are structured in a way that includes recognised entry and exit awards. This means that you can apply for part of Masters first and learn at your own pace or if you are unable to complete the full programme, you can still gain a recognised qualification. Our entry and exit awards typically include Postgraduate Certificate award and a Postgraduate Diploma award.
Duration
Study Hours
Part-time: 3 lecture days per module. 13 hours self directed learning weekly. Full-time: 4 lecture hours per module weekly. 13 hours self directed learning weekly.
On-Campus Attendance
Each academic year requires attendance for 6 Fridays per semester. Students are also required to complete additional blended learning activities via the Virtual Learning Environment.