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NFQ Level:  6
Credits: 20
Award Type: Special Purpose Award
Application: Apply Now
Closing Date: Applications are now closed for 2022
Modules: View Modules

Course Description

Irish Sign Language (ISL) is the language used by the majority of deaf people in Ireland and is recognised as Ireland’s third official language since the passing of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017. The Certificate in Irish Sign Language will give students access to practical ISL skills and insight into the world of the Irish deaf community.

Professionals that would benefit from this course include:

  • Therapists;
  • Occupational therapists;
  • SNAS, SENOS;
  • Community care/social workers;
  • Audiologists;
  • Paramedics;
  • Doctors, nurses;
  • Parents of deaf children;
  • General customer service workers.

Modules

  • Irish Sign Language Practical Skills
  • Perspectives on Deaf Culture and History

Testimonials

Michael Carroll, Irish Sign Language, Level 6 (2020-2021)

Having recently completed the Level 6 Irish Sign Language course I would highly recommend it. My experience of learning was very positive in spite of my own anxieties about my ability the lecturer was excellent at creating a seemingly informal space conducive to being able to learn without fear of failure.

The experience and knowledge gained during the course is invaluable and informs my work as a healthcare professional. The combination of theory and practice is balanced nicely and maintained my interest and enthusiasm throughout. The level of encouragement and personal one to one tutorship offered is the reason I was able to enjoy the challenge of undertaking the course material as the teaching method skilfully incorporated a lot of fun which, I was to learn, is characteristic of the deaf community in general. Since completing the course I have been able to communicate via Irish Sign Language with a referral from the deaf community and undertake an initial consultation around the client needs which he would otherwise be unable to undertake independently without an interpreter being arranged. It felt good to be able to offer this man from the deaf community equal rights to access our counselling service. I also received much praise from my superiors as our service is moving toward adherence to the Irish Sign Language Act. The benefits I have received both personally and professionally undertaking this course have been extremely rewarding and I would highly recommend it for anyone wishing to improve their knowledge and ability of ISL either for personal reasons or to bring the professional service they offer into adherence with the Irish Sign Language Act 2017.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must hold a FET/QQI award at NFQ Level 5 in Irish Sign Language or equivalent. The University’s policy in relation to recognition of prior learning (RPL) also applies however and applicants may also be required to attend for interview.

Duration

This programme will be delivered online part-time on Monday evenings from 7pm to 10pm from January 2023 to December 2023.

Cost

€1,050

Progression Opportunities

On successful completion of the programme students will have gained 20 credits at NFQ level 6 which may contribute to the achievement of other academic awards.

Lifelong Learning Department

Email: email
Phone: 066 7191701