Pre-University Psychology

Certificate in Community Health Services QQI Level 5 (5M4468)  – 1 Year

This course will introduce you to psychological science and provide you with a broad understanding of the careers within the social and behavioural sciences. Over the year, you will learn how psychologists’ study, explain, and predict behaviour, and how abnormal thinking and behaving is classified and treated. Additionally, you will explore topics in social psychology, including the psychology of evil, attitudes and bias. You will learn how psychology is applied in settings such as mental health, school, and forensics. Other areas introduced include cognitive neuroscience, marketing, organisational and other community settings.

Why choose CDCFE?

The modules were specifically chosen to provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge for the first year, and potentially second year, of undergraduate studies. You will be introduced to foundational counselling skills and learn research and statistical skills which will be applied to a research project (simulating the university experience).

Our aim is to produce graduates who understand what psychology involves and are competent in basic research. This program is beneficial to people interested in careers in mental health, law and forensics, social care, business and marketing, neuroscience and more. This course will also be of interest to anyone fascinated by human behaviour who is seeking a strong foundation before studying in higher education.

You can contact Thomas Cahill (Coordinator) by emailing thomas.cahill@cdcfe.cdetb.ie for further information.

Course Content

This course leads to a Level 5 QQI award in Community Health Services (5M4468)

  • Psychology
  • Human Growth & Development
  • Criminology
  • Research & Study Skills
  • Communications Care Support
  • Statistics
  • Work Experience
  • Mathematics (optional)

Modules may vary slightly

Entry Requirements

Students are expected to have an interest in the topic, maturity and a strong academic ability which will allow them to engage meaningfully with the content. The course content may be challenging at times, so self-study and good attendance are essential to perform well.

Specific criteria includes:
– Leaving Certificate (O3 in English, O3 in Mathematics)
– Leaving Certificate Applied (upper merit profile)
– Garda Vetting (completed during the program)
– Applicants may be accepted without meeting formal entry requirements, depending on prior learning and/or experience.  Mature students are welcome to apply.

Progression

This program is a new edition to the college and, as such, does not yet offer guaranteed progression onto degree courses. As a QQI Level 5 Award you can find standard progression routes at Careers Portal. Some of our graduates have continued to study in NCI and NUIM. Mathematics is offered to learners who require an improved grade to meet the criteria of certain HEIs (interest in this module will be sought during induction).

Certification

QQI Level 5 Certificate in Community Health Services (5M4468)

Duration

1 Year

Course Charges

€50