
Programme Overview
An Cosán is working in partnership with IT Carlow to deliver a blended online Certificate in Leadership and Social Enterprise (NFQ Level 6).
This interdisciplinary 1 year blended online certificate programme aims to develop knowledge, skills and competencies in the theory and practice of applied addiction studies and community development. The purpose of the programme is to build the capacity of community drugs workers and those working and volunteering in the wider community within an addiction context.
Format and Modules at a Glance
The first Induction day will introduce students to the course content, the technology, as well as one another. Each Module begins with a six-hour face-to-face Saturday Workshop 10.00 – 16.00 followed by 6 weekly online live sessions every Tuesday 6-8.30pm. We also offer tutorial sessions in the virtual classroom to help learners with their study skills and assignments. The following modules are included:
| Module | Title | Date |
| Module 1 | Introduction to Social Enterprise Development | TBC |
| Module 2 | Introduction to Community Development | TBC |
| Midterm Break TBC | ||
| Module 3 | Social Analysis | TBC |
| Christmas Break | TBC | |
| Module 4 | Leadership & Organisational Development | TBC |
| Module 5 | Introduction to Community Leadership | TBC |
| Module 6 | Management Development | TBC |
*All 6 programmes above are included in the Certificate but the order in which they run may vary. Participants can take modules at their own pace over 1 to 2 years.
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Students will acquire in-depth knowledge and develop research and problem-solving skills through work and enquiry-based learning, more formally structured tuition, and self-directed learning. They will develop competencies in the following transferable skills: written and oral communication, critical thinking, digital literacy, group collaboration, problem solving, planning & time management. A variety of assessment methods such as reflective journals, presentations, research projects, portfolios and assignments are used on the programme.
Learner Supports
At An Cosán, we support our learners fully so that they can achieve their full potential.
Time commitment
For accredited programmes, you need to be available for two full day workshops (2 x 6-hour face-to-face workshops) and 8 online sessions (2 hours per week). It is recommended that participants allocate a minimum of 3 hours per week for self-directed study to cover suggested readings and videos.
* Format may be modified if part of a tailored or Certificate Programme.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be 18 years+. Applicants should have completed the Leaving Certificate or a QQI (FETAC) Major Award at Level 5 preferably in the area of leadership, community development studies or a related area. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Institute of Technology Carlow policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL). Applicants may be required to attend for an interview.
Admissions
Closing date for applications is 3 weeks before start date of programme.
Fees
All 10-week accredited programmes are €300 per participant. The course fee includes a non-refundable deposit of €50 payable to secure a place. Please note that 50% of the fees must be paid upfront with the balance to be paid before the course finishes. Bursaries and phased payment options available for individual learners.
Find out more:
| Course Location | Tallaght, Dublin |
| Location Postcode | Dublin 24 |
| Course Category | Community Development, Humanities & Social Sciences |
| Course Type | Blended Learning - Mix of Classroom & Online |
| Course Qualification | Award / Certificate |
| Awarding Body | Institute of Technology Carlow |
| Awarding Body Details | Certificate |
| Course Duration | 1 Year |
| Course Time | Delivered based on demand - contact the office to express your interest |
| Course Fee | €1800 / €300 per module |
| Entry Requirements | Applicants must be 18 years+. Applicants should have completed the Leaving Certificate or a QQI (FETAC) Major Award at Level 5 preferably in the area of leadership, community development studies or a related area. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Institute of Technology Carlow policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL). Applicants may be required to attend for an interview. |



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