Diploma in General Studies
Course overview
The Diploma in General Studies provides a broad-based, liberal studies education within the humanities area. The Diploma programme provides a broad education, but is interdisciplinary in nature allowing students to choose from elective modules in the areas of Science, Engineering, Humanities and Business in accordance with their professional requirements and/or personal goals.
The Diploma may be seen as a stepping stone for students who wish to explore a number of subjects within the Humanities, Science, Engineering and Business areas at introductory level. It provides a guide for them as they make informed decisions in relation to which specialism they may pursue at diploma or degree level should they so desire.
The Diploma programme may equally be attractive for students wishing to enter/re-enter the job market as, through their engagement in programme modules, they develop key professional skills such as written and oral communication, decision making, critical thinking and technical skills, required by today’s employers.
Key facts
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for the Diploma in General Studies. Candidates who are 21 years or over on or before January 1st of year of entry may gain entry to the programme on the basis of mature years. Candidates under 21 years should meet the minimum matriculation requirements as outlined in the Frequently Asked Questions section.
Additional requirements
None
Duration:
1-2 years, part-time
Next start date: September 2013
ECTS weighting: 30
Average intake: 20
Closing date: Friday, 12th July 2013
NFQ level: 7
Course outline
The programme structure includes two core modules - Essential Life Skills covering communication skills, applied writing and presentation skills, and an Information Technology module. Students are also required to take a further four modules in an area of their choice (ie Science, Business, Engineering or Humanities). The modules as set out in each of the specialist streams are recommended for students who may wish to pursue a professional career in that specialism or for those who may wish to undertake further study at a later date. Programme modules introduce students to a particular subject area, its historical development, theoretical approaches and methodologies. They provide an opportunity to explore its particular themes and concepts from a variety of viewpoints and perspectives and guide students in how to research and analyse information in that discipline.
As the programme intends to provide a broad, liberal education, students can equally pick and choose modules from among these streams to a total of four, according to their particular interest and/or professional requirements.
Core Modules (5 ECTS)
1. Essential Life Skills for Success
2. Information Technology
Elective Modules (5 ECTS each)
Students are required to complete four modules (20 ECTS).
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Engineering (5 ECTS each) |
Business Studies (5 ECTS each) |
Humanities (5 ECTS each) |
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Maths |
Maths |
Introduction to Management |
Exploring English Literature – An Introduction |
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Chemistry |
Physics |
Enterprise Development |
Introduction to Archaeology |
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Physics |
Introduction to Electro-Mechanical Engineering |
Organisational Behaviour |
Introduction to Local History |
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Biology & Biotechnology |
Introduction to Quality Management |
Introduction to Quality Management |
Introduction to the History of Western Philosophy |
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Introduction to Environmental Science |
Applications and selections
Apply here
Maria McHugh
Adult and Continuing Education Office
NUI Galway
T: 091 492144
F: 091 525051
E: maria.mchugh@nuigalway.ie
www.nuigalway.ie/adulteducation
Requirements and assessment
Module assessment will be based on a combination of continuous assessments (mid-module), an end of module examination (up to two hours) or a final written assignment(s) or equivalent. Duration/attendance requirements vary according to the module chosen.
Students who wish to pursue the Diploma award must register for three modules each semester to accumulate 30 credits on completion of their studies. Transfer Exemptions will be allowed in the Diploma programme to a maximum of 5 ECTS for prior learning and up to 15 ECTS for graduates of the Certificate in General Studies.
Award on completion of studies: NUI Diploma in General Studies.
Find out more
Maria McHugh
Adult and Continuing Education Office
NUI Galway
T: 091 492144
F: 091 525051
E: maria.mchugh@nuigalway.ie
www.nuigalway.ie/adulteducation
Fees for this course
EU (Total): €1,940
Non-EU (Total): €2,440
A number of scholarships will be available for applicants who have become unemployed (since January 2008) and wish to update their skills and knowledge. Scholarships will constitute a 50% contribution to programme fees. A separate application process will be required.
Current students
Florence Moran
"...Having returned to education as a mature adult and trying to decide what course would best suit me, I found the diverse range of courses on offer very reassuring, and the level of support from the tutors, office personnel and support staff a great help to me. I found that the course gave me a new confidence and a desire to study further. I am glad I decided to embark on this academic journey of a lifetime and would highly recommend it to others..."