Real life, real people and real practice

A blog by Ciara McCormack, 4th year Social Care student

Starting out

Starting this course was a big step for me. As an adult learner, a parent, and someone working full-time, I honestly did not think it would be possible to return to education and manage everything. I also had concerns about the academic side of college due to having dyslexia. However, once I began the Social Care course, those worries quickly eased. The lecturers were very supportive, and the learning supports available made a huge difference. I felt encouraged and understood from the very beginning. I also never thought I would be capable of achieving so much over the four years, but the course really helped me believe in myself and my abilities.

The course itself

Over the four years, I found the course content very relevant and easy to relate to, especially as an adult learner with life and work experience. The learning was not just about theory, but about real life, real people, and real practice. The discussions, reflective learning, and workshops helped me connect my own experiences to the theory being taught. The flexible structure of the course also made it possible to balance work, family, and study. I was also lucky to make great friends along the way. There was a real sense of support in the class, and we shared plenty of laughs, which made the journey much more enjoyable and less overwhelming.

My favourite part

Placement was by far my favourite part of the course. It allowed me to try different areas of interest and helped me decide what area of social care I wanted to work in. More importantly, placement changed my perspective in many different ways. It helped me move from just learning theory to truly understanding the reality of practice. I became more aware of how complex people’s lives can be and learned to look at the whole person, meet them where they are at not just the issue they present with.

Transferable skills

The course has not only provided me with knowledge and skills, but it has also helped me become more professional in my area of work. I learned how to set clear boundaries, work ethically, and advocate properly for the needs of my clients. A key learning for me was being able to use research and evidence to support client’s needs and back up why certain supports are important.

Another major benefit of the course was developing my critical thinking. I now look at the bigger picture and question why things are the way they are, rather than just accepting situations at face value. This has strengthened my practice and helped me understand the wider systems and challenges that impact vulnerable people.

Don’t look back

Overall, this course has supported both my personal and professional growth in ways I did not expect. It has built my confidence, strengthened my skills, and shaped me into a more reflective, professional, and compassionate social care worker. I would highly recommend this course, especially to adult learners, as the support, placements, friendships, and practical learning truly prepare you for social care practice.

Find out more about the BA in Social Care, applications open April 2026

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Course Spotlight: Gemmology

Recent graduate Dagmara Greeley tells us about her experience studying the 2-year, part-time Diploma in Gemmology at University of Galway.

The Diploma in Gemmology is a well-organised course, very informative and is an interesting study of gemstones, their formation, classification, testing, determining whether they are real or not, using professional gemmological instruments. It is a great experience for all those passionate about gemstones, as well as jewellery collectors.

Support

The course was presented by our fantastic lecturer Dr. Alessandra Costanzo. Her devotion to every aspect of the course is amazing, she took a great care of all of her students as a group and was always available to assist individually on the course. Her support and encouragement is genuine and she made sure that all information was presented in very clear and easy to learn way, even crystallography became enjoyable after few lectures and practical.

Format

Every Wednesday, the presentation on Zoom was so well-presented with beautiful photos, information, tables, graphs, even short videos by reputable experts, which made it easy to learn and remember. Dr. Costanzo invited a lapidary, gem cutter and polisher, to our practical so each student had an opportunity to use the gem polishing machine and listen to all the interesting advice from the lapidary’s point of view. 

One of our practicals was about amber and the expert came from Gdansk, Poland with a fantastic presentation, showing us prehistoric insects in amber and different ways to determine whether they are real or man-made. Dr. Costanzo also organised a great workshop in the University lab with a diamond specialist so that everyone could have a chance to test unset and set diamonds.

Exciting trips

We were brought to London for the best diamond grading masterclass in the world, known as the Diamond Centre Gem-A. Our trip to Lisbon was a real treat, where everyone could admire the breathtaking display of Royal Gemstones. We also had an amazing experience of being able to cut and polish gemstones at Barcelona University.

Learning

The whole course lasted 2 years and was full of surprises. It had a friendly atmosphere and contained a huge amount of facts about a great variety of gemstones. Students developed skills such as being able to professionally test the stones using different gemmological instruments with confidence, which is the best reward for a gem passionate.

Final note

I would recommend the Diploma in Gemmology to anyone interested in gemstones, whether a professional or someone who has just discovered a passion for gemstones! The course provides such a huge range of topics and subjects that everyone will find something of interest.

It’s important to add that Dr. Alessandra Costanzo is certainly the best lecturer I have ever had. She has a wonderful personality and passion combined with a wide knowledge about gemmology, geology and science in general. More importantly, she is a great supporter and motivator who knows how to present all the information in a very interesting and clear way.

I have to say that I haven’t missed a single lecture or practical and was looking forward to every one of them. Thank you for everything, Dr. Alessandra Costanzo.

Dagmara & family at the Adult Learning Conferring Ceremony, November 2025

Diploma in Gemmology

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“Just Try and Apply”: How Tanya Vo’s curiosity & courage led to a STEM Award Nomination

Congratulations to University of Galway graduate of the Masters in Software Engineering & Database Technologies, Tanya Vo, who has been shortlisted for the Female STEM Graduate of the Year Award 2025. We caught up with Tanya to hear about her journey, achievements, and advice for future STEM graduates.

What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM, and what drew you to your specific field?
I recall being in grade school as a child and first learning about how Earth was just a tiny dot in the universe. This sparked my curiosity about science eventually leading me to Biology, the study of the natural world around us. And most recently, I had the opportunity to transition into software development which I view as the study of digital world that is rapidly expanding around us. To me, STEM is about exploring and understanding the world I live in.

You began your studies with a short CPD course* and went on to complete a Diploma and then a Master’s degree — how would you describe that journey?
I started out studying two CPD modules, Artificial Intelligence and Computer Architecture and Operating Systems, which helped me realize I could manage coursework as an adult learner while working. This encouraged me to continue onto the Level 8 Diploma in Software Engineering. The diploma also helped me become eligible for a technical graduate position, where I successfully applied and got my first full-time software development role. And while working full-time, I was able to continue onto the Level 9 MSc in Software Engineering and Database Technologies. So, starting out in CPD helped me achieve one of my lifelong goals of obtaining a graduate diploma in STEM. And I just wanted to give my course coordinator, Majella O’Dea, a special thanks helping navigate my courses each step of the way.

Can you share a project or achievement from your studies that you’re especially proud of?
I am very proud of my MSc thesis, since it was my first time writing a lengthy technical academic analysis. The topic of my thesis was penetration testing of automative wireless technologies which is of great personal interest to me. As a novice penetration tester, I designed and executed all the testing, found suitable devices to “hack” and performed all the analyses. It was challenging but very rewarding because of all my learnings and producing a masters level worthy thesis. I hope to publish some aspects of my thesis in the near future. Dr. Schukat, my advisor, gave me valuable guidance that helped me craft the thesis into something I am very proud of.

What do you think led to you being nominated for the STEM Female Graduate of the Year?
I believe my career change from a long career in Biotech, my commitment to learning, and supporting and mentoring those around me helped my nomination and being shortlisted. Going back to school as an Adult Learner and changing careers definitely had it challenges, but that has driven me to share my story with other women to hopefully inspire and encourage them in their own STEM journey.

How did you feel when you found out you’d been shortlisted for STEM Female Graduate of the Year?
Honestly, I was shocked! I was told having the initial nomination accepted was not easy, so getting shortlisted was very surprising and humbling. Reading about some of the previous winners’ stories and accomplishments was inspiring, so I am very grateful to be shortlisted along my fellow nominees.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in STEM, and how have you overcome them?
I have been a working as a woman in STEM for over two decades now, but I didn’t strongly think of myself as a woman in STEM until I changed careers into software development. In a STEM field that is overwhelming male dominated, being a woman can be a daunting since there are not as many similar faces in similar situations. I am currently the only female in a team of more than 10, so I had to work on not being afraid to speak up, making decisions and contributing to work. So as female, it is important to believe in yourself, have confidence and know that you are valued. I believe in promoting and ensuring everyone has a voice. With open-minded colleagues and supportive enterprises that encourage females to study and work in STEM, a woman in STEM hopefully one day will not face today’s challenges.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned on your journey so far?
One main lesson I have learned and want to share is to not self-reject. Instead, “just try and apply” for the grant, job, promotion or whatever you have your sights on. They might say “no”, but what if they say “yes”?

Where do you see your career heading in the next few years?
I see myself continuing to deepen my knowledge in cloud technologies and software development, pursuing additional professional certifications and growing my professional network and career. I was recently awarded the AWS All Builders Welcome Grant to travel to AWS’s flagship annual cloud conference re:invent in Las Vegas. The grant not only is funding my travel, but will provide awardees special mentoring, training and networking which I am looking forward to. After the conference, I hope to share the experience to encourage others to apply in future years.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in STEM?
If you are the least bit curious about the world around you and how things work biologically, technologically and/or mechanically, please consider STEM. You can do it. STEM has enabled me to publish professional journal papers, travel to Central and South America to collect biological samples, work in DNA labs across the USA, Asia and Australia, present tech talks in Ireland and UK, and I hope many more unique experiences. And speaking to the female adult learners and career changers new to STEM, please know you are not alone. I felt a little isolated initially in my career change to software development being older and a woman, but after reaching out and expanding my network, I realise there were many others like me. This is my main driver for sharing my story today, because I hope and want other women to pursue and succeed in STEM too.

*CPD courses have now been replaced by Micro-credentials. University of Galway has a wide range of micro-credentials available annually, find out more here.

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Mastering Time Management as a Part-Time Student

female student looking at computer

Returning to study part-time is an exciting step, but it can also feel overwhelming. Many adult learners worry about how they’ll keep up with course content, assignments, and exams – all while managing work, family, and social commitments. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

At University of Galway, we understand the unique challenges that come with balancing study and life. That’s why our part-time courses are designed with flexibility in mind. Delivered on a modular basis, they allow you to take in manageable amounts of learning so you can progress without becoming overloaded.

How Much Time Should You Set Aside?

  • Classroom-based courses: A good rule of thumb is to dedicate at least two hours of study at home for every hour spent in class. This may increase in the lead-up to exams.
  • Online and blended learning courses: The time commitment varies depending on your pace, but you’ll need to set aside time not only for online modules but also for completing assignments. Many blended courses also include occasional workshops or lectures during the year.

Time Management Strategies That Work

Managing your time effectively will be one of the biggest factors in your success as a part-time student. Here are some proven approaches to get you started:

  • Prioritise what matters: Focus on the tasks that will have the greatest impact on your progress.
  • Use dynamic task lists: Break assignments and readings into smaller, actionable steps and update your list regularly.
  • Schedule study blocks: Treat your study sessions like appointments, non-negotiable and built into your weekly routine.
  • Balance is key: Ensure that you allow time for work, family, and rest. A healthy balance keeps you motivated and productive.

Take the First Step

Time management is a skill you can learn and the earlier you start, the smoother your transition back into study will be. Here’s a short helpful ‘Introduction to Time Management’ lesson that will help you get started. Watch here.

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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): A Simple Guide for Adult Learners

You may have heard the term Recognition of Prior Learning, or RPL as it is also referred to, and thought I wonder what that is?  Well let’s try and tease it out a little.

So, what exactly is RPL?

In simple terms, RPL is a way to turn your existing knowledge, skills, and experience into a nationally recognised qualification—without repeating what you already know. If you’ve gained experience through work, volunteering, informal training, or life in general, RPL can help you get credit for it.

Why it matters—especially for adult learners

RPL is very relevant for adult learners who often have a wealth of experience, sometimes a decades worth, but may lack formal qualifications. RPL respects and validates that experience, offering a quicker and more affordable path to career advancement, further study, or a job change. It saves time, reduces duplication of learning, and boosts confidence.

What kind of experience counts?

Different types of prior learning can be used in the RPL process. If you completed a previous qualification or have acquired significant learning from prior experiences, there is a good chance you might be able to use that learning to open up new learning pathways. RPL can recognise a wide range of experiences. This includes paid work, unpaid work (like community volunteering), running a business, caring for a family member, or informal on-the-job training. RPL recognises that learning doesn’t only happen in classrooms. It helps adults turn real-world experience into something official and portable.

Is RPL just for certain industries?

Not at all. RPL can apply to lots of different industries and it is not restricted to any one sector. For example, if you work in healthcare, IT, manufacturing, retail or construction there is a good chance that you have accumulated significant knowledge and skills that you might be able to use to enable you to access or earn exemptions on a course of study.

Joe Sharkey, a University of Galway graduate, used the RPL process to access the Postgraduate Diploma in Construction Studies.

How does the RPL process actually work?

The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process is quite simple. First, choose a course that interests you. Next, collect evidence of your previous learning—this might include exam results, job descriptions, a detailed CV, work samples, or records of training you’ve done on the job. Then, fill out an RPL application form explaining how you want to use your prior learning— whether to gain entry, advanced entry, or exemptions from certain modules. The University of Galway offers support to guide you through each step.

The RPL process is free of charge. However, we recommend starting as early as possible. Gathering all your previous learning can take more time than expected, and many people are surprised by how much they’ve actually learned over the years. In fact, reflecting on your experience and putting it all together can be a very rewarding process.

Getting a formal qualification through RPL can make a real difference. It boosts your credibility, improves job prospects, supports promotions, and can even open doors to further study. Best of all, it rewards you for what you already know.

“In short, RPL is about recognising your journey
and turning it into opportunity.”

Want to learn more?

For advice and further guidance, please contact the RPL Officer on rpl@universityofgalway.ie or visit our website at www.universityofgalway.ie/rpl.

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Ignite Your Learning Journey in 2025

As the new year begins, reflecting on your life, career, and personal goals is natural. If learning is on your agenda, you’re not alone! January often brings a surge of interest in part-time courses, and we’re here to guide you on your educational journey.

Why Do You Want to Learn?

The first question to consider is: what’s driving your decision to pursue a course? Is it for professional growth, or are you seeking personal enrichment?

Professional Development

If career advancement, upskilling, or a complete career change is your goal, we offer flexible options to suit your needs:

  • Micro-credentials: Short, focused courses designed to help busy professionals develop specific skills.
  • Diploma & Degree Courses: Part-time courses in Arts, Business, Science, Technology, and more, perfect for a longer-term commitment.
  • Conversion Courses: Looking to pivot into a new field? These courses allow you to explore entirely new disciplines, with increasingly available part-time options.

Personal Growth

If your goal is to explore new interests, meet like-minded people, or simply learn for the joy of it, our Short Courses are ideal. Subjects include History, Philosophy, Poetry, Languages, and many more. You can choose between online courses for convenience or on-campus learning to connect with others in person.

A Rewarding Experience

One of the most inspiring aspects of our work is seeing how education transforms lives. Whether it’s achieving a career milestone or discovering a new passion, our students’ success stories are a testament to the power of lifelong learning.

Don’t just take our word for it—hear from our 2024 graduates about their journeys and achievements at last year’s Conferring Ceremony: Read testimonials here.

Start Your 2025 Learning Journey

Whatever your reason for learning, we have options to fit your lifestyle, goals, and aspirations. Explore our courses and discover how you can ignite your learning in 2025!

Visit University of Galway Adult Learning for more information.

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Lisa’s ‘life-changing’ learning journey…

Having found working with families and young people on a voluntary basis extremely rewarding, I wanted to gain a qualification and be a better-informed advocate for individuals experiencing adversity.  Already having failed one attempt at lifelong learning, it was with a generous sprinkling of fear I enrolled in the BA in Community, Youth and Family Studies.  I believe it to be one of the best decisions I have made and from the very first day, I felt heard, supported, and empowered.

Although the first year held a steep but enjoyable learning curve to a novice at academic writing, referencing, research and theory, the course itself is so cleverly designed, and delivered in such a wraparound engaging manner, participants cannot help but learn.  Knowledge seeps in as each module presents fascinating insight and discussion which creates a desire to dig deeper, engage more and delve into practice, research, and policy.  With access to a wide range of interesting reading materials and course manuals online and on campus, experienced lecturers, researchers, and professionals working in community, youth and family, the scope of learning is huge.  Additionally, support and guidance when researching and presenting a topic of one’s own choosing, ignites passion in a safe environment and builds confidence and a hunger to go further. 

Professionally, this learning journey has proven a solid foundation to gain meaningful employment within the community, youth and family sector by preparing practitioners to facilitate positive family support and inclusive community and individual growth.  Surprisingly, I had not anticipated the depth of personal growth I experienced in this learning environment.  I leave it with awareness of agency and a healthy sense of self and authenticity.  Gentle guidance to finely hone critical thinking skills and encouragement to question the status quo and become an engaged active citizen has activated a desire, the strength and drive to seek positive change in my own environment and on a broader scale.

Although four years may seem like a huge commitment to study, the course is broken down into small manageable chunks of time and the degree qualification is very achievable.  Additionally, with exit options after year one (Certificate) and two (Diploma) it really is a failsafe vehicle to lifelong learning and in my experience, life-changing!

You can find out more about the BA in Community, Youth & Family Studies here.

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“The experience has been transformative for my career”

Ewa Ziemichod, Degree in Science & Technology

I pursued a part-time Degree in Science and Technology at the University of Galway while working full-time, and the experience has been transformative for my career. The course’s flexible and well-organised structure allowed me to balance my studies with my work and family commitments seamlessly. The blended learning approach was particularly beneficial, enabling me to fit the course into my schedule and two hour distance from Galway.

The support from the coordinators was exceptional. They were not only approachable but also very supportive. Their assistance made navigating challenging situations much smoother and easier to manage. Throughout the course, the connection with teachers was relaxed and beneficial to learning. This supportive environment helped me develop my career significantly, leading to several promotions.

The option to select elective streams that aligned with my professional interests—specifically in medical device science and automation and control—made the learning experience both interesting and directly relevant to my work. The theoretical knowledge gained during the course was immediately applicable to engineering tasks at my job as a Manufacturing Engineer at a medical device company in Carrick on Shannon. This practical application built my understanding and confidence in performing my duties. The workshops and tutorials were engaging and provided hands-on experience that was invaluable.

I highly recommend this course to anyone, as it offers general scientific education and the flexibility to select modules that best suit individual needs while providing comprehensive knowledge and skills in selected disciplines. The course’s structure and support systems make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to advance their career while managing other life commitments. The university’s focus on real-world applications and industry relevance ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the current workforce.

Applications are now open for the part-time Degree in Science & Technology.

See the modular structure below:

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A Guide to Part-Time study at University of Galway

Are you considering taking a part-time course but don’t know where to start? This blog post will walk you through the various opportunities for part-time study available at the University of Galway.

If you’re contemplating studying part-time at the University of Galway in 2024, now is the ideal time to start looking and do your research. The following information will help to you narrow down your search.

First Question: Have you attended college previously?

NO: If you haven’t been to University before, and feel that you need to do a foundation course to get you started on your learning journey, you can apply for a part-time Access course. Access courses provide a supportive educational environment which prepares students academically and personally for a full-time undergraduate degree, part-time degree or diploma course at third level. Additionally, if you’re over 23 years of age, you can apply for a full-time undergraduate degree as a Mature Student.  For our part-time courses, the entry age is 21 years.

YES: If you have been to university before, it is advisable to check the NFQ Level of your last qualification. This will provide you with an understanding of your qualification and can highlight your pathway for progression. For example, if you currently have a Level 7 bachelor’s Degree, it would be best to look at Level 8 courses or higher. Once you have determined the level you wish to study at, University of Galway has a range of part-time study options to suit the flexible learner.

The image above outlines the various part-time courses currently available at University of Galway:

For international students or those preferring fully online courses, an online course listing is available. Unsure if online learning suits you? Visit our Discover Online Learning webpage for further information.

Next Steps

  1. Visit our ‘help choosing your course’ webpage to guide you in selecting the perfect course.
  2. Thoroughly review the course webpage, noting important dates, mode of study, course fees, and entry requirements.
  3. Contact the course co-ordinator/administrator of your chosen course (under the Find out more tab) on the course webpage
  4. Don’t forget that you can apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if you don’t meet the entry requirements but feel that you have adequate experience.

Remember:

“There is no such thing as a stupid question.”

Everyone’s learning journey is unique, and discussing your options can be invaluable. The experienced staff at the Centre for Adult Learning & Professional Development are ready to assist you via phone calls, video calls, or in-person meetings.

Phone: 091 494066
Email: adultlearning@universityofgalway.ie
Website: universityofgalway.ie/adult-learning

Embarking on part-time study can be an enriching experience, opening doors to new opportunities and personal growth.

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Transformative Changes: How a Springboard+ course made an ‘Impressive Impact’ on my life!

Lisa Callaghan, Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Arts Management (2022-2023)

When I came across the Springboard+ advert online in May 2022 I was out of work due to health issues with no idea how I was going to get back to “normal life”. I suddenly suffered my first episode of psychosis in the second half of 2021 and as a result, had returned home to Ireland from living and working in Italy so that my parents could take care of me while I recovered.

I scanned the course options and the Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Arts Management instantly stood out to me. Although I had very little previous knowledge of arts management, I obtained a Bachelors of Architectural Science from UCD in 2013, had experience working in media agencies, and had always had a personal interest in the arts.

After discussing it with my family I decided to apply and by mid-July I was delighted to be offered a provisional place on the course. I decided to attend the first semester in person even though remote learning was also an option to meet new people and visit Galway. I found the course content very interesting, and the projects and seminars were thought-provoking. We were given an insight into the world of the arts from different perspectives and through research and interviews learned directly from people who had years of experience in their field.

Attending the course also gave me a new sense of purpose and motivation and alongside the course, I was inspired to become involved in the arts locally in Leitrim. By getting involved with my local Printmaking Group I started to meet many other artists and discover more opportunities in the arts in Ireland and the artwork itself was very beneficial for my own mental health.

In November 2022 our Professor Patrick Lonergan invited the course participants to the AIMday Exploring Creative Innovations event at the University of Galway. As part of this one of the workshops I attended was with Helene Hugel, the CEO and founder of Helium Arts where I learned about their arts workshops with children with lifelong health conditions that are based in hospitals and in the community.

The second semester of Creative Arts Management was online which suited perfectly as it was more flexible and by that time I had also regained enough confidence to return to part-time work with the HSE as a Clerical Officer in the Children’s Disability Service. The focus of our second-semester project was mainly on developing funding and grant proposals and various aspects of planning and managing an arts event. I decided to focus my project on the arts and mental health based on my own personal experience of recovery from an illness. Later in the semester we also had a work experience element, and I was lucky to secure a placement assisting with the Bealtaine Festival in Sligo which gave me some great hands-on experience. By then I had decided that I was interested in working in the area of the arts and health in the future.

After the AIMday event, I had always kept up to date on the work of Helium Arts and one day saw a post online recruiting for a part-time position of Grants & Development Coordinator. After a competitive application and interview process, I was overjoyed to be offered the position just before my graduation. My graduation day was a brilliant celebration of how far I had come over the previous two years and how much had changed.

I’m currently completing induction training with Helium Arts and already learning so much, finding the work fascinating and the team is all lovely. I’m really grateful for the Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Arts Management and the impressive impact it has had on me personally and I’m looking forward to what the future brings. If you’re considering taking this course as a way to begin or further a career in the arts I’d really recommend it.

Springboard+ courses for 2024/25 will be announced in June 2024.

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