Part-time academic courses guide 2012

Athlone Institute of Technology Adult and Continuing Education Part-time Academic Courses

Learn about our part-time academic programmes at our

Information Evening

25 April 2012 5.30pm to 8.30pm www.ait.ie

Entry September 2012

UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES Part-time Academic Programmes September 2012

Entry requirements for these programmes vary – please refer to the Department of Adult & Continuing Education Prospectus, for full details of courses.

Bachelor of Arts in Childcare Supervisory Management

Adult Education Prospectus also contains course content, module details, progression options etc.

(NFQ Level 7)

Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care (NFQ Level 6) This two-year part-time course provides the knowledge and skills foundation for different areas of professional social care work. Students will develop an understanding of their own behaviour and are expected to become more sensitive and successful in a work situation. On completion of this course you will be qualified to work in a variety of different Social Care environments.

This programme is recognised for the purpose of registration of Social Care Practitioners under the Health and Social Care Act 2005.

2 years: 24 weeks per year

This degree aims to educate and train students to be competent childcare managers and supervisors, responsive to the needs of an evolving childcare sector in the fluid social environment in which we live. Graduates will be equipped to manage a childcare service, as well as run their own childcare business.

The scope of the programme covers child development and protection, customer service, operations, and management of childcare facilities, creches, Montessori schools and playgroups in the context of a modern professional environment.

Participants who successfully complete years one and two will be awarded a Higher Certificate in Arts in Childcare Supervisory Management.

3 years: 24 weeks per year Tuesday 2.00pm to 10.00pm (Classes will also take place on occasional Saturdays)

Year 1 – Tuesday 2.00pm to 10.00pm Year 2 – Wednesday 2.00pm to 10.00pm

Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Psychotherapy (NFQ Level 7)

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Studies in Social Care (NFQ Level 7) If you want to become a professional Social Care Worker, this degree is the recognised entry point. This programme aims to further develop and enhance the knowledge, skills and attitudes you will have already acquired through successful completion of the Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care. When you complete this programme you are equipped to make an effective contribution in many areas of Social Care including community based work, youth work, residential care, project work and the care of people with special needs. Through obtaining the qualification you will have acquired an understanding of the wider social policy context within which social care services are provided.

Please note that that this course is currently under review, and subject to change.

It is envisaged that an Honours Degree (NFQ Level 8) in Counselling and Psychotherapy will be available for September 2012 – please contact the Department of Adult & Continuing Education for details.

This three-year Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Psychotherapy provides a comprehensive professional educational programme. It is designed to promote the development of knowledge, skills and self-awareness, not in isolation from one another but in their inter-related meanings for the whole person. There is therefore an emphasis on the integration of experience, understanding and behaviour throughout the course.

Year 1 – Thursday 2.00pm to 10.00pm Year 2 – Wednesday 2.00pm to 10.00pm

The Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Psychotherapy training involves experiential work, interacting with others in role-play and actual client work. It involves group work in which individual vulnerabilities are often revealed and worked with. Students give and receive support from others, which is essential to a safe learning environment.

Course Fee: €2350 per annum

3 years: 24 weeks per annum

18 months: 24 weeks per year

Two evenings per week 6.00pm to 10.00pm There will also be approximately 4 Saturday seminars per semester.

Course Fee: €3500 per annum

Come discuss your course options at our Information Evening on 25 April 2012 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm

www.ait.ie

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Addiction Studies (NFQ Level 7)

Higher Certificate in Business

Please note that that this course is currently under review, and subject to change.

This course contains business knowledge and skills which form the basis for a career in industry, commerce or the public service. You will gain an understanding of the functional areas of business and of the factors which influence business success.

It is envisaged that an Honours Degree (NFQ Level 8) in Applied Addiction Studies will be available for September 2012 – please contact the Department of Adult & Continuing Education for details.

The Higher Certificate in Applied Addiction Studies and BA in Applied Addiction Studies aim to: • provide students with a framework and understanding of addiction theories • develop skills and competencies so that individuals can engage and support others in all areas of addiction • develop an understanding of special needs within the area of addiction • provide an understanding of the role of social policy and context in addiction service provision • promote the values of the reflective practitioner Participants who successfully complete years one and two will be awarded a Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Addiction Studies.

3 years: 24 weeks per annum Two evenings per week 6.00pm to 10.00pm There will also be approximately 4 Saturday seminars per semester.

Course Fee: €3500 per annum

Certificate in Front Line Management (NFQ Level 6) This Certificate will appeal to those who are newly appointed to a team leadership or people management role, or those who wish to equip themselves for such roles.

On successful completion of this qualification, you will: • have improved your skills in managing other people • understand the dynamics of teams, organisational culture and change management • be better at making decisions and solving problems • have developed the confidence to plan and deliver presentations to colleagues and managers • have improved your performance by building successful relationships with your work environment.

Graduates of this programme can apply for direct entry to year two of the Higher Certificate in Business.

2 years: 24 weeks per annum Thursday 6.00pm to 10.00pm plus selected Saturdays Course Fee: €1175 per annum

(NFQ Level 6)

On graduation, you should be able to use your knowledge and skills to solve technical and human problems in a business/ commercial context. You will also learn how effective interpersonal relations at work contribute to the public image of an organisation and to its progress. Development of your communication skills also forms part of the course.

2 years; 24 weeks per annum Monday and Wednesday 6.00pm to 10.00pm Plus occasional Saturdays – approx 4 per semester Course Fee: €2350

Bachelor of Business (NFQ Level 7) This qualification builds upon the knowledge acquired and skills developed on the Higher Certificate in Business (Level 6) course. The programme aims to provide you with a deeper insight into the role and functions of a modern business enterprise and to prepare you for a variety of business-related career opportunities upon graduation.

During your preparation for this degree, you will have the opportunity to study both high-level general and specialised knowledge related to how industrial and commercial organisations function and to those factors which affect the success of an enterprise. You will also develop a critical understanding of the key elements of effective business management. An important aspect of the course will be your own personal development, in preparation for the duties and responsibilities likely to arise in future employment.

18 months – Monday and Wednesday 6.00pm to 10.00pm Plus occasional Saturdays – approx 4 per semester Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Bachelor of Business (Hons) (NFQ Level 8) The overall aim of this programme is to provide you with the opportunity to develop the analytical and high-level business skills required to deal effectively with rapid technological, organisational and environmental change in a modern business setting. You will develop a conceptual, systematic and mature approach to the identification, analysis and solution of problems in business/commercial/ service organisations. You will also acquire the knowledge and critical understanding of the interrelationships between the different functions within business management.

18 months – Monday and Wednesday 6.00pm to 10.00pm Plus occasional Saturdays – approx 4 per semester Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Come discuss your course options at our Information Evening on 25 April 2012 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm

(NFQ Level 8) This course is designed for those who are interested in Irish Law and Legal Studies and who wish to develop their general knowledge of the basic concepts of law. The programme is particularly suited for those whose work activities involve them in aspects of law such as Garda Síochána, civil servants and those who seek careers as Clerks, Solicitors or Barristers.

Exit Awards are available for those who wish to finish the programme after years two or three. Exit awards can only be issued to those that have successfully completed all relevant assessments of the relevant exit point.

4 years; 24 weeks per annum – Monday and Wednesday 6.00pm to 10.00pm Plus occasional Saturdays – approx 4 per semester Course Fee: €2500 per annum

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting (NFQ Level 8) (open to ACCA/IATI Certified Accounting Technician Graduates) This honours Bachelor degree in accounting will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the fundamental theories, concepts, principles and practices essential for a rewarding career in professional accountancy. You will acquire expertise in the areas of accountancy, finance, management, information technology and general business.

At a general level, the degree will give you the knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes necessary for a successful career in today’s challenging business environment. You will learn how commercial and industrial organisations function, the environmental factors that affect an organisation and the contribution of the accounting/finance professional to an organisation’s success.

3 years; 24 weeks per annum Tuesday and Thursday 6.00pm to 10.00pm Course Fee: €2350 per annum

The main aim of the programme is to equip a qualified veterinary nurse with additional skills essential in the management of a modern veterinary practice. It aims to enable you to use your skills as a veterinary nurse to promote community health care in the area of veterinary science. In addition, the programme aims to provide additional skills to a qualified veterinary nurse in the areas of clinical nutrition and veterinary drug development which will enable you to broaden your career opportunities.

Holders of an appropriate Bachelor of Science qualification in veterinary nursing or agriculture science, biotechnology, toxicology or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme.

Two Years – 24 weeks per annum Thursday 2.00pm to 10.00pm In addition to a number of selected Saturdays Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health & Safety Management (NFQ Level 7) This add-on degree programme combines two distinct but related disciplines that are increasingly operationally linked in the work place: health and safety, and environmental management. It is aimed at higher certificate holders who wish to obtain the necessary skills to seek employment in these areas and, perhaps more importantly, it provides an opportunity for those already employed in environmental, health and safety positions to obtain a formal and recognised qualification. Successful completion of this programme will facilitate membership of the appropriate professional body, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

Entry requirements are as follows – Higher Certificate in science, engineering, technology or an equivalent Level 6 qualification. In the case of mature applicants (23 or over), five years’ relevant work experience will be considered for equivalency. Applicants who don’t meet these criteria may be reviewed on an individual case-by-case basis. In addition to the formal entry requirements, all applicants are also required to attend an interview as part of the final selection process.

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Veterinary Science Management

Two Years – 24 weeks per annum

(NFQ Level 8)

Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Two evenings per week In addition to a number of selected Saturdays

This honours degree aims to meet the needs of veterinary practices in the current climate, equipping the graduate with additional skills in human resource management, finance, marketing and IT. It will allow a registered veterinary nurse to up-skill and attain a qualification in practice management, significantly enhancing their prospects for employment in practice.

www.ait.ie

Come discuss your course options at our Information Evening on 25 April 2012 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm

Part-time Academic Programmes September 2012

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Law

POSTGRADUATE COURSES Part-time Academic Programmes September 2012

Generally the entry requirements for these programmes are minimum Level 8 Honours Degree, but may also require specific work experience – please refer to the Department of Adult & Continuing Education Prospectus, for full details of courses.

Higher Diploma in Computing (NFQ Level 8) This Higher diploma programme provides formal education and training for graduates (in any discipline) who wish to pursue careers in areas related to computing and information technology. Holders of the qualification will normally be expected to enter employment involving business ICT, with a view to progressing to a managerial position. They will also be suitable for vacancies in the smaller organisation where a broader base of knowledge and skills is required, while a career in computer hardware/software sales is another realistic objective. The programme emphasises the importance of practical/project work across all modules.

In order to gain entry to this programmes, a Bachelor degree (Level 7) or a Bachelor degree (honours, Level 8) in any non-computing discipline is required.

2 years; 24 weeks per annum Monday and Wednesday 6.00pm to 10.00pm In addition to a number of Saturdays per semester Course Fee: €2350 per annum

Certificate in Teaching and Learning (15 ECTS at NFQ Level 9) The aim of this course is to provide participants with an opportunity to develop key areas in learning, teaching and assessment in order to be competent teachers taking cognisance of the potential and challenges of blended and distance learning.

This course is suitable for lecturers, teachers, tutors etc that wish to develop their teaching, skills and assessment methods.

10 sessions over 1 academic year Thursday 7.00pm to 10.00pm Course Fee: €850

Master of Arts in Management in Education (NFQ Level 9) The Master of Arts in Management in Education programme provides an opportunity for participants to acquire knowledge and skills in key areas of educational leadership. The programme aims to provide participants with the necessary skills for effective educational leadership and management and to increase their self-confidence and efficacy.

The Master of Arts in Management in Education is a flexible modular part-time 90-credit programme suited to practitioners in all levels of education – Primary, Post Primary, Third Level, Further and Adult Education. This course is being offered in conjunction with the School of Education, Waterford Institute of Technology.

Applicants must have the following: • A Primary Degree or equivalent • Three years Postgraduate Experience • Access to an educational organisation where management action research can be carried out

2 years; on selected Saturdays – 9.30am to 4.30pm Course Fee: €6,300 (€700 per 10 credit module) This fee is payable on a modular basis, i.e. from €700 to a maximum of €1400 per module. €700 = 10 ECTS €1400 = 20 ECTS

Master of Business Administration This Executive MBA programme is designed for middle managers, senior executives and consultants. The programme places a central emphasis on the development and consequent application of high-level conceptual skills. The curriculum is based upon a philosophy of successful management practice, underpinned by a critical understanding of relevant theoretical perspectives applied to an organisational context.

While there is a strong emphasis on academic content, much of the assessment relates to a variety of organisational contexts. Participants are required to engage with real-life problems and dilemmas faced by organisations. The strong analytical basis significantly enhances the effectiveness of the programme. Upon successful completion of the Executive MBA, graduates will have developed a reflective approach to their work experience, as well as a commitment to life-long learning.

Come discuss your course options at our Information Evening on 25 April 2012 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm

www.ait.ie

In addition, you should hold one of the following qualifications: • A recognised degree • A postgraduate diploma in management • A relevant professional qualification The taught elements are delivered over two academic years on Friday afternoons and evenings (2-9pm) and occasional Saturdays (10am-5pm). The next programme is scheduled to commence on Friday 31 August 2012.

The programme fee for the academic year 2012-2013 is €7,850. Fees are subject to an annual review.

For further details on the Executive MBA programme, please contact Course Director Jason Palframan, email jpalframan@ait.ie

Research Methods (10 Credits at NFQ Level 9) If you currently hold a Level 8 Honours Degree, and are considering starting a Masters by Research in the future, then this single module would be of benefit to you.

The aim of this module is to: • develop a systematic understanding of the role of research and of research methods; • develop specialised knowledge and skills in conducting research;

• develop a critical awareness of the role of research in progressing theory and knowledge; • prepare the student for the completion of a Masters Dissertation; • enable students to engage in further self-directed study in research methodology.

• Assist the student in the preparation of their research proposal for their preferred area of research.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to: • demonstrate the role of research in Science, Humanities, Business and Engineering and its relationship to theory development • apply fundamental ethical principles in conducting research and be able to address ethical issues in any research project • analyse quantitative and qualitative data and critique different methods of analysis • conduct a literature review including the use of primary and secondary sources, internet and empirical databases • critically evaluate literature, identify gaps in existing knowledge and develop research questions • understand the importance of planning and management of research projects

10 weeks – one evening per week, plus two Saturdays Course Fee €600 (this fee will be deducted from the cost of completing a Masters by Research if you chose to do so at Athlone Institute of Technology)

Come discuss your course choices at our Information Evening 25 April 2012 from 5.30pm to 8.30pm All enquiries to Department of Adult & Continuing Education Athlone Institute of Technology Dublin Road, Athlone, Co Westmeath T 090 6483050 E cburke@ait.ie / jking@ait.ie / jcooper@ait.ie W www.ait.ie

Part-time Academic Programmes September 2012

In order to gain entry to the Executive MBA you should normally have at least five years’ work experience, with three years in a management-related role.