Certificate in Intellectual Disability Studies

NFQ Level 5

Gain the skills to support individuals with intellectual disabilities and progress to rewarding careers or further education in community health services.

Available Locations:

Stranorlar

(Ref: 510956)

Starts: 14/01/2027

19 Weeks

Apply Now

Stranorlar

(Ref: 510956)

Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.

What You'll Learn

On successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of intellectual disability, its causes, classifications, and the impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Apply person-centred approaches to support individuals with intellectual disabilities in achieving independence and quality of life.
Implement best practice in communication, advocacy, and empowerment for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Work effectively under supervision in a range of community health and social care settings, adhering to legal, ethical, and professional standards.
Promote inclusion and equality, respecting diversity and individual rights in all aspects of care and support.
Reflect on personal and professional development, identifying opportunities for further education, training, and career progression in intellectual disability practice.

On successful completion of this course, you will receive Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 5 Component Certificate in Intellectual Disability Studies.

Timetable & Modules

Timetable:

This course will take place in-person on a Thursday from 9.30am – 2pm.

Day	Morning	Afternoon
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday	✔	✔
Friday

Module	Title
5N1652	Intellectual Disability Studies

Progression / Career

Successful completion of this course can support progression to a full QQI Level 5 Major Award in related healthcare and social care courses. You can also use this course to enhance your qualifications for employment in intellectual disability support roles or as a stepping stone to further and higher education in health and social care areas.

Entry Requirements

Students must have level 4 skills and knowledge from the National Qualifications Framework to succeed in this course.You can show this through formal education or relevant life and work experience.
While you don’t need prior experience, you should have an interest in the field.
According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), non-native English speakers need a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.

Eligibility

Non-EU/EEA applicants need permission to work in Ireland. For more details, see our eligibility section.

Cost / Fees

You may be eligible for reduced course fees or a fee waiver (i.e. no cost).

We will talk to you about the possible low/no cost fees options during your application process.

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Real Students, Real Results!

While the focus for most of us on the course was achieving the D licence, there were lots of extras like First Aid, Tourism Visitor Care and Gluais training which I found very useful when I went looking for a job as I had more than just the D licence to offer to an employer.

Dylan Robinson

Qualified Tour Bus Driver, Driving With Tourism Graduate,

“I couldn’t recommend further education and training with Donegal College enough as it provides a great way back into education, to further education or to get a job.”

Shannon Shelby Driscoll

Qualified Teacher and Early Childhood Care and Education Graduate

“I thought there was never a chance for me to go and do nursing. I left school early because I became a mum at a young age and I didn’t have a Leaving Certificate. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone.”

Elaine Tinney

Tertiary Degree Access Route into General Nursing (B.Sc. Hons) Recent Graduate

“The support started from the reception, when you come to Donegal College it is a special atmosphere.”

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ACCA Graduate

“With a small class we were able to get comfortable around each other and we were never afraid to ask a question.”

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Animal Care Graduate

“It has brought me on so much to believe that any of us are capable of something in the right environment and with people supporting you.”

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Pathway to Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning Studies, Graduate

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Our courses are open to school leavers, lifelong learners, job seekers, employees, and employers looking to upskill or reskill.

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You can make your applications for full-time and part-time courses online; you can start the process here on the Donegal College website. Click ‘APPLY‘ on the course of your choice; this redirects you to Fetchcourses.ie, where your application will be processed using the FETCH Courses website and system.

If you haven’t signed up for a FETCH account, you’ll be required to do so first; this is a one-time setup.

Are the Donegal College courses accredited?

Yes. Many of our courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), typically Levels 4–6, as well as awards from ILM, City & Guilds, and other industry-recognised bodies.

Where do the courses take place?

Courses are delivered across Donegal at one of our 19 Donegal College campuses, certain courses are delivered in community venues in your local area, various courses are delivered online or through blended learning, and training can be offered on-site at your business, depending on the course.

Can I apply for an Apprenticeship?

The first step is to secure a job with an approved apprentice employer. An Apprenticeship is a three-way contract of employment between you, your employer and SOLAS, with on-the-job and off-the-job training delivered in phases. Full details are available on: www.apprenticeship.ie

To find out more about becoming an apprentice or an approved apprentice employer please contact our Apprenticeship Services Team: Tel: 074 9120500 or Email: apprenticeship@donegaletb.ie