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Legal, Social and Ethical Implications of AI (Certificate, L9, 5 ECTS)

  • Status: Apply Now

  • Location: Athlone

  • weeks: 12

  • Fees: This programme is part-funded by the Micro-Credentials Learner Fee Subsidy for the academic year 2026/2027.

  • Level 9

  • Course Type Postgraduate

  • Study Mode Part Time

  • Department Department of Accounting and Business Computing

  • Start Date 02/11/2026

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Course Overview

Navigate the challenges of AI in a rapidly changing world

Artificial Intelligence is transforming how organisations operate, make decisions and interact with society. Alongside the opportunities created by AI come significant questions around regulation, privacy, bias, fairness, accountability, employment and the responsible use of technology.

The Legal, Social and Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence micro-credential is a Level 9 programme designed for professionals and graduates who want to develop a deeper understanding of these challenges. The programme examines AI from three interconnected perspectives — legal, ethical and societal — and encourages learners to critically evaluate both current issues and the future implications of AI.

 

Designed for professionals

Delivered over 12 weeks with just one hour of scheduled teaching per week, this Level 9 micro-credential provides a flexible opportunity to develop specialist knowledge in an area that is becoming increasingly relevant across business, technology, public services and professional practice.

Through lectures, case studies, relevant articles and discussion, participants will have the opportunity to examine contemporary AI challenges and consider their implications for their own professional environments. The module’s teaching strategy specifically incorporates case studies, academic material and discussion to encourage critical engagement with the subject.

Understand the rules. Question the implications. Prepare for the future of AI.

12 weeks | 1 hour per week | NFQ Level 9

More Information

  • What will you explore?

    Over the 12-week programme, learners will examine key areas including:

    • AI regulation in the European Union
    • Data privacy and protection
    • Legal considerations including contracts and torts
    • AI governance and accountability
    • Bias and discrimination in AI systems
    • Privacy and surveillance
    • Algorithmic transparency and fairness
    • The potential impact of AI on employment and society
    • AI and the inequality of wealth and the social divide
    • Unintended consequences of AI adoption
    • The future implications of AI for law, ethics and society

    Develop the skills to critically evaluate AI

    This is not a technical or programming-focused course. Instead, learners will develop the ability to critically analyse the wider implications of AI, evaluate key ethical challenges, assess the evolving European regulatory environment and consider how organisations and society can respond responsibly to increasingly powerful AI technologies. Learners will also develop their ability to engage critically with academic research relating to AI ethics, regulation and societal impact.

  • Minimum Entry Requirements

    Level 8 Qualification

    or

    Applicants may also be considered based on relevant professional experience and prior learning in accordance with TUS Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policies.

     

     

     

  • The programme is delivered fully online, providing flexible access for learners balancing study with professional and personal commitments. The course combines research-informed learning, practical case studies, and applied policy development activities focused on ethical AI implementation.

    Lectures will take place Tuesday 8pm to 9pm

  • Each 5-credit module normally equates to approximately 100 total learning hours. Total learning hours include the time spent in class, such as lectures, tutorials, and practical elements, as well as time spent working independently outside of college.

    The balance between these varies by discipline and level of study, and learners should be aware that workload will increase at particular times, especially when assignments are due.

  • Assessment is designed to support critical thinking, applied learning, and practical engagement with ethical AI challenges. Learners will engage with case studies, policy evaluation activities, and applied assessments focused on the legal, social, and ethical implications of AI within organisational contexts.

  • The full course fee is €710per learner. Eligible learners may qualify for funding support of 80% via the Micro-Credentials Learner Funding Subsidy, subject to eligibility criteria. The 20% direct fee is €142. For full details see www.springboardcourses.ie

     

  • This course is open for applications on www.springboardcourses.ie
    Places are allocated on a first come first served basis, prioritising Unemployed and Returner applicants (see www.springboardcourses.ie for full details of applicant types).  Applications will be closed once the maximum number of applicants has been reached.

  • Certificate in the Legal, Social and Ethical Implications of AI
    (Level 9 Micro-Credential, 5 ECTS Credits)

  • For further information on the programme please contact:

    Barry O’Loughlin
    TUS Athlone Campus
    Email: Barry.OLoughlin@tus.ie
    Phone: 090 647 1854