Foundation Certificate for Mature Learners

Objectives & Subjects on Offer

The programme aims to:

• Equip students with the necessary skills to participate in, and benefit from, a third level course
• Provide students with an opportunity to experience the satisfaction that can be gained from learning
• Build up confidence in a supportive learning environment
• Provide a direct access route to the MIC BA in Liberal Arts for those who attain a merit
• Provide an alternative to the Leaving Certificate as a route to third level for mature students

The 80 hour programme is designed to offer participants a sample of the subjects that are available on a degree programme, while equipping students with a set of transferable skills, which will enable them to succeed at third level. The programme features a range of six core subjects chosen from the BA degree in MIC including History, Heritage Studies, German Studies, Philosophy, English Language & Literature and Geography. In addition, two core skills programmes are also offered: Academic Writing and Information Technology.

What do I get Afterwards?

Students achieving a merit on the Foundation Certificate will be offered a place on the Bachelor of Arts (MI002) degree programme in MIC, subsequent to completion of a CAO form and supplementary form before 1 February. 

In addition, MIC Foundation Students who obtain a merit (average of a B3) have direct entry to the following MIC and  UL programmes (subject to certain criteria in some instances, please see notes below). All interested applicants must apply via the CAO system:

• Bachelor of Arts (MI002)
• BA in Education, Business Studies & Accounting (MI009) at MIC Thurles*
• BA in Education, Business Studies & Religious Studies (MI010) at MIC Thurles*
• Bachelor of Arts (LM002)
• Journalism & New Media (LM039)
• European Studies (LM040)
• Business Studies (LM050)

Note: Students progressing to language options within these programmes must already have Leaving Certificate level language, except where beginners' level languages are offered by the programme.

*Please note applicants may be required to attend for interview.