Now that the Leaving Certificate results are out, it is time for students to look at the big step in education. Galway Community College of Further Education (GCC ) continues to offer full-time courses in a wide variety of career areas designed for entry to skilled employment, preparation in starting an apprenticeship, or progression to further and higher education.
For some, these courses may be used as a transition year, an opportunity to sample new vocational areas before committing to a longer course of study in higher education. Studying a further education course can give students who may have missed out on a higher education course through the CAO, an opportunity to gain access next year.
All our one-year courses offer a mix of blended learning, with work experience and funded Erasmus placements. These courses are aimed at Leaving Certificate and Leaving Certificate Applied graduates, mature learners and anyone finding themselves considering changing their career path.
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, (more for Science courses ) to apply for more than 1,200 CAO courses, that will accept a QQI award for progression to Higher Education colleges in Galway and nationwide.
Their Level 6 courses give direct access to some second year courses in the new Atlantic Technological University (ATU ), formally GMIT. We maintain strong links with ATU and NUIG access offices through information talks and sessions on progression, organised by our guidance counsellor.
The option of studying a 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 at GCC is €175, more information on fees can be accessed on www.galwaycc.ie
While studying at GCC you can expect a friendly inclusive environment in small classes. There is an opportunity to swap courses up to the end of October if requested, we aim to ensure all students are happy in their education.
They offer fully funded Erasmus placements where there are plenty of work experience opportunities abroad. Situated at Moneenageisha Junction, they have 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 2022, for a course in your preferred area; Business, Secretarial, Retail Pharmacy, Graphic Design, IT, Film, Music & Theatre, Social Care, Sport, Equine, Science, Motor Technology and Horticulture. For enquiries email, [email protected] and follow our social media channels @GCCFurtherEd.
