
The Certificate in Applied Skills Development is a one-year Level 6, 10 Credit, part-time on campus course. This programme aims to offer Adults with Intellectual Disability an opportunity to experience University life and the student experience at higher education, in the same way their siblings and typical adult peers do. This programme is designed specifically within the subject areas and pitched at the pace of learning to enable the student to build a skillset that will equip them to live an enhanced life through experiencing learning in a variety of exciting and interesting modules.
Unique Features
Assessment of the Applied Skills Development award is 100% continuous assessment. This assessment style has been adopted as it better meets the learning needs of the adult learners of this course.
Certificate in Applied Skills Development Invitation Poster
Certificate in Applied Skills Development Carlow Campus Presentation Download
Delivery
This is a part-time campus-based programme. This course will be delivered on-site on SETU Carlow campus and the proposed award will be delivered in flexible mode consisting of two four-hour morning slots. This flexible mode of delivery offers opportunities for adult learners to study these modules in a way that best suits their needs.

Applied Skills Development Year 1 – 10 Credits each module is 5 Credits
All modules are largely beneficial for personal growth and development. They propose to build the requisite life skills required for individuals with an intellectual disability to live a good life.
Semester 1: Communication Skills
- Personal and Professional Development: Focuses on building self-awareness, confidence, and essential workplace skills.
- Foundations of Academic Skills: Covers time management, study techniques, and digital literacy to support academic success.
- Inclusive Communication: Develop effective interpersonal communication skills, including the use of assistive technologies.
Semester 2: Physical Health and Wellbeing
- Physical Health and Wellbeing: Students have opportunities to engage in physical fitness activities. It emphasises mental health strategies and resilience techniques.
- Placement Preparation: Prepares students for internships, work placements, and long-term career planning through practical and experiential learning.
Students must be over 18 years.
Students must be able to attend SETU Carlow Campus independent of the college.
Students must have a mild to moderate intellectual Disability.
While this is a standalone, special purpose award, the applicability of learning for the student enhances possibilities for employment and increased health and lifestyle outcomes as a result of undertaking study on this programme.
Course Leader

Ms Niamh Spratt-O’Shea
Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning -
Email: niamh.spratt@setu.ie
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