Program Overview

Introduction to the Professional Diploma in Community Engagement

The Professional Diploma in Community Engagement is a graduate-level diploma designed for professionals working in community contexts and third-level education who wish to develop their engagement skills. This 11-month, part-time program allows students to work directly with local communities to address real-world needs through collaborative project work.

Program Overview

During this program, students will:

• Engage in community or university partnership projects that are reciprocal, beneficial, and goal-oriented
• Collaborate with community partners to address identified needs
• Work in inter-disciplinary teams on real-world challenges
• Learn through lectures, workshops, hands-on activities, and guided research
• Receive regular feedback from faculty and peers

Program Content

The program blends academic learning with practical experience, helping students build skills in engaged research design, delivery, and evaluation. Students will learn through a combination of:

• Lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities
• Reflective practice and guided research
• Regular feedback from faculty and peers

Year 1

The program is structured over one year, with modules taught during the autumn, spring, and summer semesters.

Autumn Semester

• Engaged Research Design (UP5101): Work in an inclusive inter-disciplinary team to consult with local community partners and co-design a project to address a community-identified need.

Spring Semester

• Engaged Research Design (UP5102): Work with your established project team to deliver a community-based partnership project.

Summer Semester

• Engaged Research Evaluation (UP5105): Apply disciplinary knowledge and reflective practice to assess project design and delivery.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants should:

• Hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honours (2:2)
• Have experience working in and/or with communities or third sector contexts
• Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview

Other entry considerations include the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy for those who do not meet the standard entry requirements but can demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience.

Fees

• EU students: €TBC per annum
• Non-EU students: €TBC per annum

Annual fees are billed by semester, and students may be eligible to apply for a monthly payment plan.

Graduate Profile

The Professional Diploma in Community Engagement is designed to meet the needs of community workers and professionals working in areas such as:

• Home School Community Liaisons
• Community Development Workers
• Social Enterprise managers
• Development Practitioners – locally and internationally

This program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage effectively with communities and address real-world challenges.