Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in Advocacy Cert

Program Overview

This 12-week part-time online program provides a comprehensive introduction to advocacy, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to advocate effectively for themselves and others, both in personal and professional contexts. Through a holistic, interdisciplinary approach, the program covers the elements, theories, models, history, and legislative framework of advocacy in an Irish context, as well as practical advocacy skills developed through workshops and experiential learning. Successful completion of the program results in a recognized academic qualification and enhanced employment opportunities for those working or volunteering in healthcare, community settings, or those seeking personal and professional development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program provides an interdisciplinary introduction to advocacy. It aims to equip students with a holistic and people-centred understanding of advocacy, both for themselves, as part of a community, and for others. The program covers the concept of advocacy, its contexts, different perspectives, and aims. Students will learn about the elements, theories, models, history, and legislative framework of advocacy in an Irish context.

Outline:

• Duration: 12 weeks
• Teaching Mode: Part-Time
• Delivery Method: Online
• Structure: Comprises two 5-credit modules delivered over a 12-week period.
• Content:
Covers elements, theories, models, history, and legislative framework of advocacy in an Irish context.
• Module 2: Equips students with advocacy skills through lectures and two "advocacy in action" workshops.
• Course Schedule:
• Live Online Hours:
48 hours of lectures (synchronous)
• Tutorials/Guest Lectures:
9 x 1 hour (synchronous)
• Self-Directed Learning:
Daily throughout the program through readings, short videos, and discussion boards.
• Workshops: Two, one-day workshops.
• Modules:

Teaching:

• Methods: Blended learning experiences including online lectures, self-directed learning, experiential learning, guest speakers, and Canvas.
• Unique Approaches: Two "advocacy in action" workshops allow students to demonstrate their learning.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Government bodies, local charities, the HSE, workplaces (e.g., unions), and opportunities for promotion.
• Outcomes: Recognized academic qualification, enhanced communication, problem-solving, research, public speaking, and organizational skills.

Other:

• Target Audience: Individuals working or volunteering in healthcare and community settings (e.g., day services, youth clubs, mental health services), carers, parents, or anyone needing to speak up for themselves or others.
• Course Importance: Provides essential skills (e.g., self-confidence, self-awareness, problem-solving, communication, time management, boundary management) and options for personal and professional development.
• Course Benefits: Recognized academic qualification, increased employment opportunities, and work advancement.

€550