Certificate in Youth Studies.

Please Note: For course starting in Sept 2012: Course is now fully booked. Provisional bookings can be made in case of cancellation. However, such bookings may not get a place on the course.

For anyone who wish to learn more about the theory and practice of youth work, CYC provides a Certificate in Youth Studies (CYC/NUI Maynooth). This is a year long part-time course in the theory and practice of youth work.

This course is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in youth work context, theories and principles.  It should assist them develop their knowledge and skills and to explore the values and attitudes that underpin work with young people in youth work contexts.    

This course provides good preparation for those returning to college and is considered part of a progression route to further education by the Department of Applied Social Studies, NUI, Maynooth.  

The Course will seek to maximise the participation of each person and the contribution that each has to make to the group learning process and to developing a challenging and stimulating learning environment.  

Aim

The Youth Studies Certificate aims to: 

a.    Develop critical awareness of the nature of youth and youth issues in contemporary society;

b.    Provide students with an overview of the position of young people in contemporary society and the services provided for them;

c.    Increase students’ awareness and knowledge of adolescent development and the needs of young people in relation to youth service provision;
d.    Challenge students’ understanding and analysis of youth work contexts, theories and approaches;

e.    Develop an appreciation of the complexities, challenges and potential involved in the youth worker role;

f.    Develop skills in communication, planning, research, etc.;

g.    Explore their potential interest, attitudes and values in youth work and how that influences their approach to work with young people;

h.    Develop analytical thinking, academic study skills and the ability to undertake research and write reflectively, analytically and coherently.

The Certificate is structured around the following themes:

1.    Youth Service Provision and Policy Development.
2.    Adolescence, youth culture and social situation of young people.
3.    Youth Work definitions, models and approaches.
4.    Principles of Social Education in Youth Work.
5.    Role of the Youth Worker.

Method of assessment & standards:

•    Overall Attendance rate of 85%.
•    Project 50%.
•    Organisational Profile 35%.  
•    Presentation 15%.    

When will it take place?

The course will commence on Wednesday, 19th September with a full day on Saturday 22nd .  It will be run on Wednesday evenings 7 – 9.30pm with additional Saturdays, 10am – 4pm (exact dates will be available at the outset of the course).  In addition to Wednesday evenings, Students will be expected to do a five week placement (one evening per week) in Semester II of the course.  Placements will be arranged by the Course Co-Ordinator.  

Where will it take place?

The course will take place in Clonliffe College, Drumcondra, Dublin 3.  There is ample parking facilities and easy access via public transport, including intercity trains from Connolly Station and numerous bus routes (information available on request).

Who is the course aimed at?

The course is open to those aged 23 and over.  Ideally students should have at least a FETAC Level 5 Award or a Leaving Certificate Education and some youth work experience.
The need for youth work experience is very important as students are expected to reflect on what is presented on the course and examine it in relation to their own and other students experience of working with young people.    

The participants should be able to demonstrate:

• An openness to reflect on one’s own practice, attitudes and beliefs;
• An ability to work constructively and appropriately in group settings; and
• A commitment to learning in a group setting.

This is a 3rd level academic certificate and therefore it is vital that work presented for assessment is of a consistently high academic standard.

How do I apply?

Complete the application form and return to:

Ger Magee
Youth Work Studies Certificate Course
CYC
Arran Quay
Dublin 7
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Applicants may be asked to attend an informal interview to look in more depth at the course and its suitability to their work and experience.

Places for this course are limited.
Closing date for applications:   
Friday, 20th July, 2012.

Fill out the application form!