Education - Adult & Further Education

Programme Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Adult and Further Education commences in September of each year and is available (1) on a full-time basis over two semesters or (2) part-time over three semesters. The programme is recognised by the Teaching Council as a professional teaching qualification for the Further Education sector. It includes modules on the theory and practice of education and lifelong learning (psychological, philosophical, historical and sociological perspectives), teaching, learning, curriculum planning, assessment and a substantial teaching placement.



Key Features

The Graduate Diploma in Adult and Further Education programme is designed to enable students to develop their professional values, knowledge and action in the following ways:

• Enable students, independently and with others, to critically engage with the theory and practice of adult/further education.



• Develop students’ knowledge and skills in curriculum planning, teaching and assessment in accordance with given programme and learner needs.



• Promote a capacity for and a commitment to reflective practice among students, enquiry and research in their teaching taking account of the interdependence of student learning and teacher learning.



• Empowers students to create and sustain learning relationships with learners, taking account of the diverse and holistic needs of the adult learner.



• Foster a commitment to the values which underpin the professionalism in teaching, including professional care and service to others, responsiveness to change, commitment to their own development as lifelong and collegial learners.



Schedule & Placement

The programme is available (1) on a full-time basis over two semesters or (2) part-time over three semesters and commences in September of each year. The programme is taught using a blend of learning situations (onsite, online and teaching placement). The online component comprises synchronous meetings of about two hours in duration during week evenings, allowing students time to conduct their placement during the day time. The rest of the online work will be asynchronous which may completed over a number of days. Students will also work together synchronously at other times. A small number of meetings onsite in the Limerick campus is also planned on Friday evening and/or Saturday. Students undertake their own independent study and preparation in addition to this class contact time. A variety of assessment modes are used including course work, presentations, a portfolio and an action research project.



In line with Teaching Council requirements, the programme comprises a 100-hour teaching component teaching QQI-accredited programmes or equivalent. The placement takes places over two practice modules AN 5781 and AN 5772, which aim to improve the quality of students’ teaching, and promote good practice and to affirm and acknowledge good practice where it occurs. Applicants are expected to provide details of their intended placement at the time of application. This may involve onsite or online teaching or some combination of both in at least two settings. The placement also involves a 30-hour observation component which may be arranged at a later stage.

Graduate Diploma in Autism Studies (GDAS):

This module is designed to build on the existing Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies programme.



Applicants are required to have a Bachelor’s Degree at Level 8 in any discipline AND a post-graduate qualification in Autism Studies (or a relevant post graduate qualification) with a minimum of 30 ECTs and a minimum award which aligns to a 2.2.



Graduates of the GCAS programme must earn a minimum 2.2 award to be eligible for entry to the GDAS programme.



In cases where the applicant has not completed the GCAS programme but can demonstrate comparable expertise and training, the applicant can be assessed on prior learning in line with University policy and procedures on the Recognition of Prior Learning. The admission procedures will include the submission of a portfolio and an interview, wherein the prior learning and experience of applicants will be assessed. This is carried out on a case to case basis.



MA in Autism Studies (MAAS):

This programme is designed to build on both the existing GCAS and GDAS programmes.



Applicants will be considered for direct entry into the MA in Autism Studies programme on the basis of completion of the GCAS and GDAS programmes. Graduates of the GDAS programme must earn a minimum 2.1 award to be eligible for entry to the MA in Autism Studies.



In cases where the applicant does not meet normal entry requirements, the applicant can be assessed on prior learning in line with University policy and procedures on the Recognition of Prior Learning. The admission procedures will include the submission of a portfolio and an interview, wherein the prior learning and experience of applicants will be assessed. This is carried out on a case to case basis.



Note: To see the English language requirements for all of the above qualifications, go to: https://www.mic.ul.ie/international/study-in-ireland/essential-information/english-language-requirements for further information.

How to Apply

Please see "Application Weblink" above.



Graduate Diploma in Adult & Further Education. Closing date for applications is 4pm, 29 May 2026.



MEd in Adult & Further Education. Closing date for applications is 4pm, Friday 24 July 2026.

1 year full-time, 1.5 years part-time. Delivery Mode: Blended.

Career Opportunities

The Graduate Diploma in Adult and Further Education is intended for graduates planning to teach in the adult and further education (FE) sector and for teachers already working in this area who wish to further develop their professional practice. It is recognised by the Teaching Council as a professional teaching qualification for the Further Education sector. This programme is also suitable for individuals interested in pursuing a career in adult education, lifelong learning, or community work. This programme offers a progression option to a Master’s degree in Year 2, subject to certain achievement criteria.