Speaking about the alternatives for learners in Ireland, Joe Walsh, CEO of The Open College, assures students that there is a “real alternative to the big universities and courses available in Ireland that translate into real jobs both here and Internationally”.
“Results are dominated by stories about who got the most H1s and the inevitable preoccupation with the CAO. This is extremely frustrating for students who have not gained enough points or who are looking to pursue a different path, and in many cases wish to combine Further Education and entering the workforce” said Mr. Walsh.
The Open College offers more flexibility and choice to its prospective students than any other private college in Ireland. This independent private college offers over 90 QQI (formally FETAC) approved level 5 and 6 courses to thousands of students in a variety of formats.
Modern living is a delicate balancing act between work, family and social time off. At the same time we are encouraged to develop a positive attitude towards the concept of lifelong learning, without any real advice being given on how we are supposed to add another juggling ball into our lives. So, if you’re looking to tailor a training programme around your life – rather than the other way around – The Open College is for you.
Traditional taught programmes where attendance is required, blended learning and their renowned distance learning and e-learning programmes, are all available. In this way the student is empowered with options for independent study, informal learning and varied communication channels including one to one tutor support.
While QQI do offer some general interest courses, most of The Open College’s programmes are designed with up skilling and practical training in mind. Business, Healthcare, Childcare, Digital Marketing, Management, Law, Journalism, Sports and Special Needs are just some of the areas covered, plus all courses are designed and constantly maintained by leading educational experts to ensure they are up to date technically, culturally and from a legislative perspective.
“Also not gaining the correct points in the CAO application process is not the end for students who wish to gain a third level qualifications either. QQI Level 5 & 6 Major awards can be also used to progress to Third Level Degree courses under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS), so there are still plenty of alternatives available.”
Ireland’s largest dedicated provider of QQI Awards, The Open College offers more than 90 QQI Levels 5 & 6 component Certificates and Major award programmes in a variety of subjects delivered over a flexible mix of Distance Learning, eLearning and Part-Time attendance learning. Those looking to take next steps in the world of Healthcare, Business & Finance, Management, Digital Media, Childcare, Law, Journalism, Special Needs, Montessori, Psychology and many more besides will be delighted by the choice on offer.
The QQI awards you can achieve through The Open College are fully recognised by employers both nationally and internationally, and year-round enrolment provides more flexibility and choice to prospective students than you will find at any other private college.
Keenly aware of the challenge of balancing further education and wider life, The Open College ensures that your next step can be expertly tailored around your life – rather than the other way around.
For more information on courses and programme advice you can contact The Open College at: The Learning Centre, Leopardstown Business Centre, Ballyogan Road, Dublin 18.
Tel: + 353 (1) 206 1828 or 01 206 1829. Advice lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am – 5.30pm. Email: info@theopencollege.com
Pic Credit: Open College
