Course information

C08 - DIPLOMA IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL STUDIES

Provider: University of Limerick / HSE Addiction Services

Address: University of Limerick

Web: https://www.ul.ie/gps/drug-alcohol-studies-diploma-online

Contact: Dr Rachel Lenihan

Title: Course Director/Limerick Co-ordinator

Email: Rachel.lenihan@ul.ie

Telephone: n.a.

Contact: Esther Wolfe

Title: Dublin Co-ordinator

Email: esther.wolfe@hse.ie

Telephone: (087) 9092730

Contact: Aoibhinn King

Title: Dublin Co-ordinator

Email: aoibhinn.king@hse.ie

Telephone: (087) 9074515

Category C : Courses leading to a professional or academic qualification (NFQ level 7 and higher)
Format

In-person and online

Objectives

This one-year, part-time programme is offered predominantly online this year in an effort to support learners on a national basis. The course has been developed by the University of Limerick in partnership with the Health Service Executive (West-Limerick, West-Donegal and Dublin Mid-Leinster areas), Vocational Education Committees (City of Limerick and County Donegal), the Mid-West and North West Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Forces and the North West Alcohol Forum.

While the programme is predominantly delivered online, there are a small number of face-to-face engagements across the programme.

The programme aims to:

  • develop personal and professional growth of individuals working in community, voluntary, statutory and non-statutory organisations who are actively engaged in responding to drug and alcohol issues, across the spectrum from prevention and education to treatment and rehabilitation.
  • build upon existing knowledge and skills among participants, with a focus on developing theoretical and evidence-based knowledge together with a range of practical skills to enable them to respond effectively and appropriately to drugs and alcohol issues in their work setting.
  • enhance the principles and values underpinning lifelong and adult learning among individuals.
Content

Autumn semester

  • EN3051 Experiential Group Work and Group Processes in the Context of Drug and Alcohol Studies
  • EN3061 Substance Use: Theoretical Foundations
  • EN3071 Models of Intervention: Theory & Practice 1
  • EN3081 Research & Reflective Practice 1

 

Spring semester

  • EN3052 Substance Use: Community, Social and Policy Perspectives
  • EN3062 Substances and Mental Health
  • EN3072 Models of Intervention: Theory & Practice 2
  • EN 3082 Research & Reflective Practice 2
Target Group

The course is intended for individuals actively engaged in management of drug and alcohol misuse and dependency or those working with groups at risk for drug and alcohol misuse.

Typical applicants also include health professionals, social care professionals, teachers, guidance counsellors, youth and child care workers, prison officers, Gardai, probation officers and community workers among others.

Entry Requirement
  • Certificate in Addiction Studies, or a related area, or equivalent academic qualification
  • At least two years experience of working in the area of drug and alcohol or a related field
  • Successful completion of interview
  • You are required to complete a 300-500 word exercise as part of the application. 
Selection Procedure

Applicants can now apply online. Please refer to our website for application guidelines and supports.
Course website: https://www.ul.ie/gps/drug-alcohol-studies-diploma-online

Qualification
Diploma in Drug and Alcohol Studies, NFQ 7
Assessment
Assessment will use a variety of methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, case study, project work, and reflective portfolio.
Accreditation
University of Limerick: Level 7 HETAC National Framework of Qualifications
Background

The programme was developed by the University of Limerick in partnership with the Health Service Executive (West-Limerick, West-Donegal and Dublin Mid-Leinster areas), Educational Training Boards (former Vocational Education Committees) (Limerick and County Donegal), the Mid-West and North West Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Forces and the North West Alcohol Forum.

Dates / Availability
September each year. 2 semesters, 6 hours a week
Location
While the programme is predominantly delivered online, there are a small number of face-to-face engagements across the programme, including an induction weekend at the beginning of the year, a trip to Dublin and workshops for EN3071 and EN3072
Region
Dublin,Munster,Connacht,Leinster
Application
Prospective applicants will be required to complete an online application form via the website.
Cost
Course fees EU: €1652, non-EU €5,300. Further information on fees available from the university webpage.