Why choose this course?

This course is suitable for both mature students and school leavers, who would like to work in community health and social care. Completing this course provides you with the opportunity to pursue a fulfilling and rewarding career providing care and support to vulnerable people in the community. You will acquire knowledge of health and social care theories and best practice.

As part of this course, you will complete 4 weeks work experience in a range of caring situations, such as working with people with learning difficulties; people who experience mental health issues, people with a physical disability or working with disadvantaged youth.

This qualification will give you an opportunity to gain employment in the sector or progress to further or higher education.

What will you study?

• Psychology (5N0754)
• Word Processing (5N1358)
• Communications (5N0690)
• Human Growth and Development (5N1279)
• Work Experience (5N1356)
• Care Provision and Practice (5N2705)
• Equality and Disability (5N1273)
• Social Studies (5N1370)
• Intercultural Studies (5N0765)

Course Features

• First Aid training and Certification
• Patient and Manual Handling Training course with certificate upon completion

What do you need to apply?

• Five O6/H7 in Leaving Certificate/LCVP or a Merit in Leaving Certificate Applied, or a relevant QQI Level 4 Certificate.
• The academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants (21+).

Progression Opportunities

• Graduates with a Merit profile may apply for entry to the Social Care Studies Level 6, (SVC) in BCFE.
• Graduates of this course may also apply through the CAO and/or the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to higher and advanced certificate and degree programmes at national Institutes of Technology, Technological Universities and Universities (applicants should confirm linked awards and eligibility requirements with the relevant Higher Education Institution).

Career opportunities

While many graduates from this course progress onto further education, some progress immediately into employment in a variety of care and community settings.