Transition to Higher Education (Certificate, L6, 20 ECTS)

Program Overview

Course Overview

Always wanted to go to college… but didn’t know where to start … Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has developed a Foundation Level programme (called the Certificate in Transition to Higher Education) aimed at those who wish to experience Third Level Education and develop their skills and knowledge prior to starting a full Degree programme. This is a Foundation preparation course providing a pathway for students to gain experience of Third Level Education and potentially progress to entry onto TUS certificate/degree programmes.

The aims of the programme are:

• To raise awareness of the supports offered to mature students at third level.
• To enable under represented-groups within the community to maximise their potential and make a successful transition to higher education.
• To build on prior learning and increase the student’s self-confidence and abilities on their path to third level education.
• To provide students with the knowledge and skills required for third level education.

Entry Requirements

This programme is open to anyone who is interested in entering into or returning to Higher Education.

Upon completion of this programme, students wishing to progress to a TUS undergraduate programme of study must meet the University’s entry criteria for their programme of choice. Students should note that the Technological University welcomes mature students and will accept applications from persons aged 23 years of age on 1st January of year of entry for admission in September. Eligible students will be supported, at the end of their studies on this programme, to identify a chosen discipline and consider progression to the range of full-time undergraduate programmes at Level 6/7 and 8 within TUS. Minimum entry requirements to these full-time programmes will apply.

English Language

Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements.

Course Content

Modules

Four modules in total will be completed over the academic year, two per semester as follows;

• Semester 1
  • Learning and Academic Skills Development
  • Computer Applications
• Semester 2
  • Personal Development
  • Mathematics

Delivery

The programme will be delivered in a blended format i.e. combination of 6 weeks on Moylish campus and 6 weeks online classes per semester.

Four modules in total will be completed over the academic year, two per semester as follows;

• Semester 1 – Commencing Tuesday 16th September 2025
  • Learning and Academic Skills Development Tuesdays from 6.30pm-9.30pm
  • Computer Applications on Thursdays from 6.30pm-9.30pm
• Semester 2 – January 2026 (start date tbc)
  • Personal Development on Tuesdays from 6.30pm-9.30pm
  • Mathematics on Thursdays from 6:30pm to 9:30pm

Time Commitment

Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

Assessment

The programme will be delivered through blended methods (a mixture of online and on-campus delivery) and will include a range of lectures, tutorials, projects, and assignments. This structure is based on providing students with the relevant study skills, IT skills, and educational guidance needed to pursue a third-level programme of study. Students can avail of support and mentoring through the TUS Access Service.

Qualification

Certificate in Transition to Higher Education (Level 6, Special Purpose Award, 20 Credits).

Fees

€500

Applicants in receipt of a means-tested social welfare payment can apply for a reduced fee of €100.

Application Deadline

Wednesday 3rd September 2025. Places are allocated on a first come first served basis. Course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached. Courses run subject to viable numbers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Certificate in Transition to Higher Education is a foundation-level program designed for individuals who wish to experience third-level education and develop their skills and knowledge before embarking on a full degree program. It serves as a preparatory course, providing a pathway for students to gain experience in higher education and potentially progress to entry onto TUS certificate/degree programs.

Objectives:

• To raise awareness of the supports offered to mature students at third level.
• To enable under-represented groups within the community to maximize their potential and make a successful transition to higher education.
• To build on prior learning and increase the student's self-confidence and abilities on their path to third-level education.
• To provide students with the knowledge and skills required for third-level education.

Outline:

Semester 1:

• Computer Applications: This module runs in Semester 1 (September – December).
• Personal Development: This module runs in Semester 1 (September – December).

Semester 2:

• Learning and Academic Skills Development: This module runs in Semester 2 (January – May).
• Mathematics: This module runs in Semester 2 (January – May).

Course Schedule:

Assessment:

• The program is delivered through blended methods (a mixture of online and on-campus delivery) and includes a range of lectures, tutorials, projects, and assignments.
• Students can avail of support and mentoring through the TUS Access Service.

Teaching:

• The program is delivered through a combination of online and on-campus methods.
• The teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, projects, and assignments.

Other:

• The program is a Level 6 Special Purpose Award with 20 credits.
• The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a third-level program of study.
• Students who successfully complete the program are eligible to apply for full-time undergraduate programs at Level 6/7 and 8 within TUS.
• The program is open to anyone who is interested in entering into or returning to Higher Education.
• The program is subject to change.
• The program is offered on a first come first served basis.
• The program is closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached.
• The program runs subject to viable numbers.
• The program is designed to help students realize that college is for them and build their confidence in their ability to be successful students.
• The program is recommended for anyone thinking of getting back to studying, particularly mature students.

€500 Applicants in receipt of a means-tested social welfare payment can apply for a reduced fee of €100