Skip to main content

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

Trinity Menu Trinity Search

School of Social Work and Social Policy

You are here Courses > Undergraduate

Certificate in Contemporary Living

This Certificate is highly innovative in Irish and international terms, pioneering an exciting approach that opens up specially designed third level study opportunities for persons with intellectual disabilities. The programme is aimed at transforming possibilities open to people with intellectual disability as they make transitions towards adult life and the workforce. It is intended that the programme template being developed here in the School at the National Institute for Intellectual Disability will be fully tested and evaluated. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve a roll-out of this model of provision across other interested third level institutions in Ireland and elsewhere.

Overview of the Certificate in Contemporary Living

The Certificate in Contemporary Living is a two year, full time Trinity College Certificate programme. This Certificate is the first full time course for adults with intellectual disabilities in Ireland. It is a specially designed third level programme aimed at supporting students as they make transitions towards independence, lifelong learning and employment.

Values of the Certificate

The core values of the certificate programme are:

  • a belief in the capacity of individuals with learning difficulties to achieve their maximum potential
  • a respect for the contributions of individuals with learning difficulties
  • a belief in equality of opportunity for individuals with learning difficulties

Specific Objectives of the Certificate

  • To promote lifelong learning for individuals with learning difficulties.
  • To promote inclusion in the third level environment for individuals with learning difficulties.
  • To develop skills for participating in modern society for individuals with learning difficulties.
  • To develop social skills of individuals with learning difficulties through peer interaction.
  • To fulfill personal educational interests for individuals with learning difficulties.
  • To broaden the horizons for individuals with learning difficulties.
  • To enhance individual employability and independent living.

Delivery

As part of the Course, students on the Certificate:

  • have class contact on three days per week
  • work with fellow students from various departments within Trinity College
  • audit undergraduate lecture in their area of interest
  • complete two work placements of personal choice
  • undertake a field trip in a European country
  • work with professional in the arts

Course Structure

The Certificate Course is made up of 10 modules, eight mandatory and two elective. These subjects enable students to participate in the expressive arts, humanities and to develop transferable skills. Each module consists of lectures, tutorials as well as self-directed learning.

Mandatory Modules

  1. Written and Oral Communication
  2. Mathematics and Financial Management
  3. Information and Communication Technology
  4. Personal Effectiveness
  5. Inclusive Studies and Research
  6. Career Development
  7. Social Sciences: an International Perspective
  8. Work Placement

Elective Modules

  1. Dance and Drama
  2. Art and Design
  3. Creative Arts Appreciation and/or Performance
  4. Music Appreciation
  5. Special Topic

Admission Requirements

There are no standard educational requirements, but evidence of particular interest in education and strong motivation is essential. 
To apply for the course you will need:

  • Submit a CV with 2 passport photos
  • Complete and submit the application form
  • Attend the CCL Open day
  • Attend an Interview   

Assessment and standard setting

Assessment is undertaken through presentations (oral and poster), personal portfolios and written work for each of the ten modules studied. To fulfill the requirements for award of the Certificate in Contemporary Living each student will undertake designated assessments for final award purposes which are outlined within the Learning Objectives for each of the modules. The Module Descriptor captures what the students will actually be doing in each of the ten modules. The assessments undertaken for final award purposes is reviewed on an annual basis by a suitably qualified external examiner who has had the experience of working on similar programmes at third level. 

Contact us

For further information please contact:

Ms Sheila McGroarty, Executive Officer,
National Institute for Intellectual Disability,
School of Social Work and Social Policy
Email: niid@tcd.ie
Tel. +353-1-896 3885