Undergraduate Study Modes

Full-Time 

A full-time course is probably what you think of when you think of going to college. You’ll be in class most days, and you’ll be expected to commit plenty of time to doing work for your classes. Your classes will generally be between 9 am and 5 pm on weekdays, leaving evening and weekends free for studying, socialising or working. In a full-time course, you can usually expect to take 60 credits per year (30 per semester), and modules are usually 5 or 10 credits. 

Why study a full-time course? 

• Enjoy a "true college experience.” 
• A greater sense of community.
• Dedicate most of your time to your studies.

Part-Time

A part-time course is a great option for students who work most days but still want to gain a degree or certification. More of your classes will be held in the evenings, and there is greater flexibility around the pace at which you complete your studies. 

Why study a part-time course? 

• A part-time course allows you to work full-time.
• It's easier to balance the demands of a busy life with your studies.

Online

A wholly online class is the most flexible way to complete a degree or certification. While you will still have due dates, you can undertake most of your learning in your own time. Study when and where is convenient for you and never need to worry about what to wear to class! 

Our online courses employ flipped and online classroom techniques, high-end video lectures, online activities and state of the art digital technology to provide students with a quality learning experience. We engage with students from their initial enquiry and induction to online mentoring, regular face-to-face sessions and round the clock support from our dedicated eLearning team.  

Why study an online course? 

• If you live far from campus, it may be easier to study remotely.
• Students who have irregular schedules, particularly those who travel frequently, find it easier to complete assignments on their own time.

Blended

Blended learning is the integration of digital tools, techniques and materials with the physical classroom. In a blended course, students may view lectures, access readings, ask questions, and complete assignments online in virtual learning environments (VLE) like Moodle and through online classrooms such as Zoom, freeing up in-person class periods for discussions, activities and traditional lectures. Other terms, such as mixed, hybrid, or integrative learning, all describe the same method of teaching. 

Blended courses combine the freedom of e-learning with the opportunity to personally interact with lecturers and fellow students. For example, the lecturer, or facilitator, may assign an online video for students to watch, then spend the class discussing the content, demonstrating different methods and allowing students to practice techniques with immediate, instructive feedback. Blended courses offer numerous other benefits, including: 

• Flexibility: Busy, geographically dispersed and mature students have more control over their schedules, avoiding the hassle of a daily commute 
• Independence: Students often develop independence and motivation by working in their own time at their own pace 
• Diversification: Students have access to a rich array of learning tools and styles they may not encounter in the traditional classroom 
• Support: Students experience the personal engagement and support of interacting with their lecturers and classmates while benefiting from the flexibility of online delivery 

What is an undergraduate?

An undergraduate is the description given to a student who is undertaking a degree level academic course at a college or university. Following completion of the relevant examinations, you can enter a third level institution as an undergraduate student.   

What is an undergraduate course? 

An undergraduate course is typically three or four years’ duration. When you undertake an undergraduate degree you benefit by obtaining a comprehensive introduction to your chosen area of study in the first year. This foundation is built on in subsequent years, advancing your knowledge and, depending on the course content, you can gain practical skills that will be required in your future career.  

Some undergraduate students complete work placements as part of their degree programmes, this gives them excellent experience in their chosen industry and helps them make connections with prospective employers.  

Levels of study 

You can obtain an undergraduate degree (QQI Level 7) or an honours degree (Level 8).  

QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) is a state agency established by the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 with a board appointed by the Minister for Education and Skills. More information here.

What are the differences between Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses?