Intermediary Studies

The programme is a collaborative offering between UL and the Department of Justice and on successful completion of this programme graduates will be eligible to be placed on a panel from which the courts can draw intermediaries from to work within the Irish justice system.

(M) Microcreds available:

Modules listed within the Programme Content with an (M) beside them are MicroCreds and can be taken independently.

The Professional Diploma in Intermediary Studies is a postgraduate training programme which will qualify CORU-registered health and social care practitioners to work as Registered Intermediaries in the Irish Justice System. The programme includes four modules delivered across the School of Law and the School of Allied Health. The curriculum has been developed using best practice guidelines from other jurisdictions, featuring case-based inquiry methods and real-life scenarios. The programme has a practical skills-based component which ensures those who qualify have the competencies to provide intermediary interventions as part of all aspects of the legal process for both vulnerable witnesses and defendants in the context of Irish legislation.

In following the best practice blended learning approach which has been adopted internationally, the programme modules include a combination of online and face-to-face tutorials using the state-of-the-art clinical facilities located on the University of Limerick's campus. This blended approach combines educational methods that encourage self-directed learning, reflection on personal experience, critical thinking and access to online resources. Students will be presented with practice dilemmas to develop their skills in relation to professional conduct & ethical issues which may arise within their role as intermediaries. Importantly, this training will be designed and delivered in contemplation of the experience and insights of a range of key criminal justice stakeholders at both a national and international level.

Individuals who complete the programme are fully recognised by the Department of Justice as eligible to be placed on a panel from which the courts can draw from to work as a Registered Intermediary in the Republic of Ireland.

Award: Postgraduate
Faculty: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Autumn
LA4101 - Law of Evidence (Online) (M) (ECTS 6)
LA6161 - Advanced Crime and Criminal Justice (Online) (ECTS 9)

Spring
SL5042 - Role of the Intermediary: Context and Communication (Blended) (ECTS 6)

SL5052 - Role of the Intermediary: Methods and Techniques (Blended) (ECTS 9)

(M) A MicroCred is a single module within a larger further award (eg. Certificate, Diploma, Masters). By taking a micro-credential you may be eligible to apply for a credit exemption should you progress to study for a further award.

Minimum of a second class honours primary degree (2.2) (Level 8 National Qualifications Authority of Ireland).

Three full years practice experience as a CORU registered Speech and Language Therapist, Occupational Therapist or Social Worker in the Republic of Ireland.

Note: Previous legal experience and/or training is not an entry requirement.

Application Deadline: Wednesday, May 31, 2023

What to Include with your Application

Qualification transcripts and certificates

A copy of your birth certificate or passport

A completed communication skills and experience form

A curriculum vitae

A copy of Coru Certificate of Registration

If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice. If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:

English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
AND English language competency certificate

1 year part-time