In the current economic climate you may be looking at ways to develop your knowledge and skills in new areas or top up existing qualifications to pursue a new career path.
The Open University offers a comprehensive set of higher skills workforce development courses from NFQ Level 6.
We have a dedicated team of people who can talk to you about:
Call our Dublin Office on ++353 (0) 1 678 5399
email: ireland@open.ac.uk
All Open University courses presented in Ireland have been recognised by HETAC as aligned with the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Here is a complete list of:
If you are resident in the Republic of Ireland you are not eligible for financial support from the UK Government. There is, however, a very limited fund which can be used to help, if you are already on a course, with expenses such as childcare, equipment and travel to tutorials. In a few cases, particularly if your circumstances have changed since you enrolled on a course, it may be possible to give some limited help with course fees. In all cases applications are 'means tested'.
For further information and advice please contact The Open University in Ireland by phone at +44 28 9032 3722 or by email to ireland@open.ac.uk.
Payment Methods
We can offer you fee payments by monthly instalments through an Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA). This enables you to spread the cost of your studies.
If you would like to talk to someone about our payment methods, call ++44 (0) 28 9032 3722 or email ireland@open.ac.uk.
Tax Relief
OU undergraduate degrees, together with our Professional Certificate or Diploma in Management are eligible for tax relief.
OU postgraduate course fees are also eligible for tax relief providing you have a primary degree or equivalent qualification.
For more information contact your local tax office.
Other Resources
The studentfinance.ie website provides information about several financial assistance schemes available in Ireland.
The following two courses are fully funded through the Higher Education Authority's Springboard Fund in the Republic of Ireland. For more information visit www.bluebrick.ie
My Digital Life – Certificate in Computing and Information Technology
The Open University’s innovative new programme introduces you to modern computing and information technologies. Whether you are planning a career in Computing and IT or refreshing your skills, you will find this module interesting and challenging. My Digital Life will help improve your communication, numeracy, research and presentation skills. This is an Open University NFQ Level 7 certificate worth 30 ECTs.
Discovering Mathematics – bridge the gap
Because of the Open University’s supported learning approach no entry qualifications are required to take up this popular programme which will not only restore your mathematical confidence and ability – but help you gain the key skills and applications which the country needs to regain its global competitiveness. Successful completion leads to 15 ECTs at NCF Level 7 and provides a platform for further numeracy learning.
The Open University offers support to students who require assistance technology and/or non-medical help through the Access Technology Loan Scheme (ATLS). This is available for 10 point courses upwards. For further information contact the Disability and Additional Requirements (DAR) Team ++353 (0) 1 678 5399.
Back to Education Allowance
The Department of Social and Family Affairs’ Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) provides a range of education and training options from which an unemployed person can choose, or be directed to the most appropriate education or pathway for his/her needs.
Because our part-time courses are recognised by HETAC in Ireland, two options under this programme may be of further support to OU students who are seeking or claiming Jobseekers Allowance. These are respectively:
For further information, contact the Deciding Officer at your local Social Welfare Office or go to http://www.welfare.ie/EN/Forms/Documents/bte1.pdf
Below are links to other institutions providing career information in Ireland:
www.gradireland.ie
www.careersportal.ie
www.qualifax.ie
www.volunteeringireland.ie
www.activelink.ie
