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Transition to Higher Education (Certificate, L6, 20 ECTS)

  • Location: Blended

  • years: 1

  • Fees: Funded in 2026. See Fees Section below

  • Level 6

  • Course Type Flexible and Professional Learning

  • Study Mode Part Time

  • Department Flexible Learning

  • Start Date 09/09/2026

Course Overview

Always thought about going to college, but weren’t sure where to begin? At Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), we understand that taking the first step into higher education can feel like a big leap, especially if you’ve been out of education for some time or didn’t follow the traditional route.

The Certificate in Transition to Higher Education is a specially designed foundation programme that offers a supportive, flexible pathway into third-level learning. It provides an opportunity to experience college life, develop essential academic skills, and build the confidence needed to progress to a full undergraduate (degree) programme.

This award-winning programme, which was the recipient of the AONTAS STAR Award 2025 in the Third-level Access and Engagement Category, supports learners from all backgrounds, with a particular focus on mature students. Through a combination of practical learning, guidance, and access to dedicated student supports, participants are empowered to realise their potential and take meaningful steps toward their educational and career goals.

Whether you’re returning to education, exploring new opportunities, or simply ready to invest in yourself, this programme is your starting point.

This programme is supported by Community Foundation Ireland.

More Information

  • Personal Development (5 ECTS)

    This module introduces learners to the key principles of personal development planning, supporting them in building self-awareness and engaging in meaningful reflective practice.

    Computer Applications (5 ECTS)

    This module develops essential digital skills by introducing learners to everyday computer use, including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and online tools for academic success.

    Mathematics (5 ECTS)

    This module provides the learners with an overview of key principles of Mathematics including arithmetic, units and conversion, algebra, graphs, and statistics.

    Learning and Academic Skills Development (5 ECTS)

    This module introduces learners to the principles of clear, structured, academic writing skills. Students will learn how to write an academic essay and are introduced to foundational research skills. The module covers reflective writing and academic presentation skills.

  • This programme is open to anyone who is interested in entering into or returning to Higher Education.

    Upon completion of this programme, students wishing to progress to a TUS undergraduate programme of study must meet the University’s entry criteria for their programme of choice. Students should note that the Technological University welcomes mature students and will accept applications from persons aged 23 years of age on 1st January of year of entry for admission in September. Eligible students will be supported, at the end of their studies on this programme, to identify a chosen discipline and consider progression to the range of full-time undergraduate programmes at Level 6/7 and 8 within TUS. Minimum entry requirements to these full-time programmes will apply.

    ENGLISH LANGUAGE: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements.

  • The programme will run for one academic year in a blended learning format (a mixture of online and on-campus delivery) as follows;

    Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30pm – 9:30pm

    Start Date

    There will be an online welcome session for all students on 9th September 2026.

    Classes will commence on Tuesday 15th September 2026.

    Location

    Classes will take place online and at TUS Moylish Campus, Limerick.

    The proposed delivery schedule is subject to change.

  • Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assisgnments are due.

  • Assessment will include a range of continuous assessments which will include a mixture of formative and summative forms. A final exam will be included in the Maths module so that the students develop the skills to prepare for and undertake such an assessment type.

  • Certificate in Transition to Higher Education (Special Purpose Award, Level 6, 20 ECTS)

  • No Course Fee (Programme is free)

  • Applications will close 2 weeks before the listed start date or once the maximum number of applicants is reached.

    Places are allocated on a first come first served basis.

    Programmes run subject to viable numbers.

  • Derek, programme graduate and graduate of the BA (Hons) in Social Care Work- “The Transition to Higher Education course helped me to realise that college is for me and the confidence to know that I could be a successful student“, Derek, programme graduate and current student of BA (Hons) in Social Care Work.

    Nicola, programme graduate and graduate of the BEng (Hons) in Precision Engineering- “The lecturers on the course were very helpful and encouraging. I am delighted I did the course and I would recommend it to anyone thinking of getting back to studying, particularly mature students like me“. Nicola, programme graduate and current student of BEng (Hons) in Precision Engineering.