POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN PROGRAMME DESIGN & VALIDATION IN FURTHER EDUCATION & TRAINING
Program Overview
This postgraduate certificate equips educators and program developers in the Further Education & Training (FET) sector with the knowledge and skills to effectively design and validate new and existing programs, including traineeship and apprenticeship programs. Through a blended learning approach, participants enhance their understanding of program design principles, curriculum development, assessment, and validation, preparing them for leadership roles in program development and redesign initiatives within the FET sector.
Program Outline
The program emphasizes a practical and applied approach, focusing on the specific needs and challenges of the FET environment. This includes the design of traineeship and apprenticeship programs.
Objectives:
- Enhance participants' knowledge and understanding of program design principles and best practices in FET.
- Develop skills in curriculum development, assessment, and validation within the FET context.
- Equip participants to effectively design and validate new and existing programs, including traineeship and apprenticeship programs.
- Foster critical reflection and analysis of program design within the evolving FET landscape.
- Promote collaboration and knowledge exchange among participants from diverse FET backgrounds.
Outline:
The program is delivered part-time over two semesters, utilizing a blended learning approach.
- Module 4: Innovation and Emerging Trends in Program Design: This module examines emerging trends and innovations in program design within the dynamic FET landscape, encouraging participants to adopt a forward-thinking approach.
Day-long Workshops:
- Workshop 1: Collaborative Project Design
- Workshop 2: Curriculum Development and Assessment Strategies
- Workshop 3: Program Validation and Quality Assurance
Assessment:
The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate participants' learning and development. This includes:
- Formative assessments: Regular assignments, group discussions, and practical exercises within online modules and workshops.
- Summative assessments: Individual written assignments and a final project focusing on the design and validation of a specific program within the participants' area of expertise.
Teaching:
The program is delivered by experienced and qualified academics and practitioners within the FET sector, providing participants with access to real-world expertise and insights. The teaching approach is interactive and collaborative, fostering active participation and peer-to-peer learning.
Careers:
Completion of the program is expected to enhance participants' employability and career prospects within the FET sector.
- Leading program development and redesign initiatives within existing FET institutions.
- Consulting and freelance work related to program design and validation.
- Career advancement within roles currently held in the FET sector.
Other:
The program is designed to be highly flexible, accommodating the needs of working professionals through a blended learning approach. Participants are encouraged to connect with peers from diverse FET backgrounds, fostering a collaborative learning environment and promoting professional networking opportunities.
Maynooth University
Overview:
Maynooth University is a public research university located in Maynooth, County Kildare, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research.
Services Offered:
Maynooth University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Library:
A comprehensive library with extensive resources and study spaces.Maynooth Access Programme:
Support for students from underrepresented backgrounds.Gaeilge san Ollscoil:
Irish language services and resources.Campus Life:
A variety of student clubs, societies, and activities.International Office:
Support for international students and those wishing to study abroad.Graduate Research Academy:
Support for postgraduate research students.Research Development Office:
Support for research activities.MaynoothWorks:
A platform connecting researchers with industry partners.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at Maynooth University can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of clubs, societies, and activities, including sports, music, drama, and volunteering opportunities. The campus is located in a picturesque setting, with easy access to Dublin and other major cities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
Maynooth University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.World-Class Research:
The university is renowned for its research activities, particularly in the natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, technology, arts, and humanities.Supportive Campus Environment:
Maynooth University provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students, with a strong focus on student well-being.International Focus:
The university has a strong international presence, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.Academic Programs:
Maynooth University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Studies:
Level 8 degrees in various disciplines.Postgraduate Studies:
Taught master's, diplomas, certificates, and research programs.Certificates and Short Courses:
A variety of short courses and certificates for professional development.Entry Requirements:
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for admission to the Postgraduate Certificate in Programme Design & Validation in Further Education & Training:
Academic qualifications:
- A recognized primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
- Evidence of degree equivalence in accordance with Maynooth University's policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL).
Professional experience:
- Must be working in an education setting such as within adult, community or further education environments or a work-place setting.
English language proficiency:
- For non-EU applicants, minimum English language requirements apply. This ensures that students have the necessary language skills to fully participate in the program's academic and social aspects.
Note:
- The specific English language test and score requirements may vary depending on the applicant's nationality and educational background.
- The program is offered part-time over two semesters, delivered partly online and through day-long workshops.
- Adult education participative and dialogical methodologies are used for delivery.
- The online dimension is interactive, including student-enhancing activities such as webinars, discussion forums, and other exercises.
- Completion of the program is intended to enhance participants' employability and promotion prospects in the FET sector.
Contact Information:
- Programme Directors:
Application Process:
- Apply online through PAC (www.pac.ie) using the course PAC code MHA87.
- Upload the following documents to your online application form:
- Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed
- Two academic references (for non-Maynooth University students)
- A copy of your birth certificate or valid passport
