Galway Community College of Further Education (GCC ) continues to offer full-time courses in a wide variety of career areas designed as a step towards skilled employment, in preparation of starting an apprenticeship, or progression to further and higher education. All one-year courses offer a mix of blended learning, with work experience which gives the opportunity to people, who are unsure of their career path, to taste a vocational area before committing to a longer course. These courses are aimed at Leaving Certificate graduates, mature learners, and anyone finding themselves unemployed or facing uncertain job security, this is the perfect time to reevaluate their options regarding their future career paths.
There are no CAO points required to apply for a further education course and, on completion, you can convert your results from the course, up to 390 points, to apply for more than 1,200 CAO courses that will accept a QQI award for progression to institutes of technology and universities nationwide. GCC's Level 6 courses give direct access to some second-year courses in GMIT. Information talks by GMIT and NUIG on progression opportunities are held throughout the year, and GCC's guidance counsellor is available for information on progression and job opportunities in Galway and nationwide.
The option of studying a PLC/further education course is now attractive to school leavers and those hoping to upskill, because the costs involved are low in comparison to higher education courses. Further education courses qualify for a SUSI grant. The registration fee for a full-time course in GCC is €175, with a Government levy of €200, and many are exempt from the latter if in receipt of a SUSI grant, a medical card, or BTEA allowance. More information on fees can be accessed on galwaycc.ie
While studying in GCC you can expect a friendly, inclusive, environment, and GCC has a strong reputation for excellent tutoring. It offers fully funded Erasmus placements where there are plenty of work experience opportunities abroad. Situated at Moneenageisha Junction, the college has an ideal location close to the city centre, with free parking, a café, playing pitches, bus stop, and a fully equipped gym among the many modern facilities available.
Apply online now at www.galwaycc.ie for September 2021, for a course in your preferred area: business, secretarial, retail pharmacy, graphic design, IT, film, music, and theatre, social care, sport, equine, science, motor technology, and horticulture. For inquiries email [email protected] and follow @GCCFurtherEd on social media.
Orla Fitzpatrick
