Certificate in Religious Studies

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The part-time Certificate in Religious Studies (CRS) equips primary teachers with the knowledge and skills to teach religious education in Catholic primary schools. The program covers various aspects of the Catholic faith, including scripture, theology, liturgy, and catechetics, and emphasizes practical application and critical thinking. Graduates are qualified to teach religious education in Catholic primary schools in Ireland and many other countries, and may also find opportunities in related fields such as catechesis and parish ministry.

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Degree Overview:

Overview:

The part-time Certificate in Religious Studies (CRS) equips primary teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach religious education in Catholic primary schools in accordance with the requirements of the Council for Catechetics of the Irish Episcopal Conference. Completion of the CRS is typically a prerequisite for employment in Catholic primary schools in Ireland. Additionally, the CRS is recognized as a qualification for teaching religious education in some Catholic elementary schools in the UK, North America, and Australia.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Enable teachers to effectively teach religious education in Catholic primary schools.
• Equip teachers with a deep understanding of the Catholic faith and its teachings.
• Develop teachers' abilities to create and deliver engaging and informative religious education lessons.
• Foster critical thinking skills in teachers about religious education and its role in society.

Description:

The CRS is a part-time program delivered over one year. The curriculum covers various aspects of the Catholic faith, including scripture, theology, liturgy, and catechetics. The program also focuses on developing teachers' pedagogical skills related to religious education.

Other:

• The program has been designed to accommodate the needs of working teachers.
• The program is delivered by experienced and knowledgeable staff who are actively involved in the development of Catholic primary school religious education.
• Many graduates have received reimbursement of fees through the DES Refund of Fees Scheme.
• Feedback from graduates has been consistently positive, with many reporting increased confidence and enthusiasm for teaching religious education.

Outline:

Structure:

The CRS is delivered over one year with a total of 15 credits. The program comprises three modules:

• Theology and Scripture (5 credits): This module explores the central beliefs and practices of the Catholic faith, drawing on scripture and theological sources.
• Liturgy and Catechetics (5 credits): This module examines the role of liturgy and catechetics in the life of the Catholic Church, providing practical guidance for teaching religious education in schools.
• Contemporary Issues in Religious Education (5 credits): This module explores the challenges and opportunities facing Catholic religious education in the contemporary world, fostering critical reflection and discussion.

Course Schedule:

The program is delivered on a part-time basis, with classes typically held one evening per week during the academic year. The specific schedule may vary from year to year and is confirmed at the start of the program.

Modules:

Theology and Scripture:

• This module explores the core doctrines of the Catholic faith, including the nature of God, the Incarnation, and the Church.
• It examines key scriptural texts and explores how they inform the understanding of Christian faith and practice.
• The module also considers the challenges and opportunities facing Catholics in the contemporary world.

Liturgy and Catechetics:

• This module explores the role of liturgy and catechetics in the life of the Catholic Church.
• It considers the various forms of Catholic worship and their significance for faith formation.
• The module also examines the principles and methods of catechetics, providing students with the skills necessary to teach religious education effectively.

Contemporary Issues in Religious Education:

• This module explores the challenges and opportunities facing Catholic religious education in the contemporary world.
• It considers issues such as secularism, multiculturalism, and the role of religion in education.
• The module also examines the use of new technologies in religious education.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The CRS is assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations. Each module includes a variety of assessment methods, such as essays, assignments, presentations, and examinations. The specific weighting of each assessment method may vary from module to module.

Assessment Criteria:

Students are assessed on their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, their critical thinking skills, and their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Assessment criteria are provided for each assignment and examination, so students are aware of the expectations.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The CRS employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles. These methods include lectures, group discussions, seminars, workshops, and individual tutorials. The program also utilizes a blended learning approach, incorporating online learning resources and activities.

Faculty:

The CRS is taught by an experienced and knowledgeable team of staff who are actively involved in the development of Catholic primary school religious education. Faculty members have expertise in various areas of theology, scripture, liturgy, catechetics, and education. They are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.

Unique Approaches:

The CRS program is characterized by several unique approaches to teaching and learning:

• Emphasis on practical application: The program emphasizes the practical application of theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
Students are given opportunities to develop their teaching skills through workshops, presentations, and lesson planning assignments.
• Use of technology: The program incorporates technology into the learning experience.
Students use online learning resources and platforms to access learning materials, submit assignments, and interact with other students and faculty.
• Student-centered learning: The program adopts a student-centered approach to learning, fostering active participation and encouraging students to take ownership of their learning.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the CRS are qualified to teach religious education in Catholic primary schools in Ireland and many other countries. They may also find opportunities in related fields such as catechesis, parish ministry, and adult religious education.

Career Opportunities:

• Teacher of Religious Education: Graduates can pursue a career as a teacher of religious education in Catholic primary schools.
This role involves teaching students about the Catholic faith, preparing them for sacraments, and fostering their spiritual development.
• Catechist: Graduates can serve as catechists in parish or other community settings, providing religious instruction to children and adults.
• Parish Ministry: Graduates can contribute to parish ministry in various capacities, such as assisting with liturgical celebrations, coordinating catechetical programs, and supporting outreach initiatives.
• Adult Religious Education: Graduates can teach religious education programs for adults, helping them deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith and engage in ongoing faith formation.

Other:

Staff expertise:

The program is delivered by experienced and knowledgeable staff who are actively involved in the development of Catholic primary school religious education.

Student satisfaction:

Feedback from graduates has been consistently positive, with many reporting increased confidence and enthusiasm for teaching religious education.

DES Refund of Fees Scheme:

Many graduates have received reimbursement of fees through the DES Refund of Fees Scheme.

International recognition:

The CRS is recognized as a qualification for teaching religious education in some Catholic elementary schools in the UK, North America, and Australia.

Part time EU Status Fee Part-time €1,250 per annum Non EU Fee Part time €2,550 per annum