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Ulster University Certificate in Community Studies

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Unblocking Potential

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council have opened an expression of interest for a Certificate in Community Studies (60 credits), led by Ulster University. This course is designed for community development practitioners, offering formal education and training in community work, and equipping learners with essential skills to engage effectively with communities.

As part of this course, students will be enrolled in a 7 week Unblocking Potential pre-entry qualification (20 credits). Unblocking Potential is highly regarded as a first step towards enabling adults to return to study and advance their learning, aimed at practitioners who have experience in community work but might not have formal qualifications. On successful completion, this course provides the credits needed to continue onto the Certificate in Community Studies.

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More Information

Important dates and timings
Unblocking Potential will take place on the following dates at the Valley Leisure Centre, 40 Church Rd, Newtownabbey BT36 7LJ. Before applying to this course please ensure that you can commit to these dates.
- Thursday 21 May, 5pm-9pm
- Thursday 28 May, 5pm-9pm
- Thursday 4 June, 5pm-9pm
- Thursday 11 June, 5pm-9pm
- Thursday 18 June, 5pm-9pm
- Thursday 25 June, 5pm-9pm
Hospitality organised from 4.30pm-5pm

A pre-course visit to the Ulster University Belfast Campus will take place for orientation and familiarisation on either Saturday 27 June or Monday 29 June, as agreed by students.

Upon successful completion of Unblocking Potential, the Certificate in Community Studies will commence on Monday 21 September 2026 at the Ulster University Belfast campus from 9.15am-2.15pm.

The Certificate is anticipated to finish in February 2027, session dates and times to be confirmed. Participants should anticipate attending a weekly session, lasting 5 hours for this duration. In addition, participants are expected to set aside on average 3 hours per week to engage in weekly reading, homework tasks and preparation for assignments. There are no exams for this course and assessment is by coursework only. Participants may require additional self-directed study time to complete coursework at specified submission deadlines.

Please note sessions for the Certificate in Community Studies will take place from September 21, on Mondays from 9.15am to 2.15pm.
Who should apply?

This course is ideal for individuals who are actively involved in community or voluntary groups, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity who want to strengthen their impact and develop their skills.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate a minimum of 6 hours per week dedicated to community work in order to be considered for the course.
Cost

The course is free of charge for successful applicants who are living and/or working in Community Development within the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council area.

The Certificate in Community Studies allows for continued learning with financial support from PEACEPLUS and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. There may be opportunity for financial support beyond the Certificate in Community Studies.
How to apply

To apply, complete the online application form. Places on this course are limited so please take time to complete the required questions.

Deadline to apply, Monday 18 May, 12 noon.

Please direct any questions to lorna.towns@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.

The Community Development team aim to inform successful applicants on Tuesday 19 May. Please note that by completing your application you understand that the course will begin on Thursday 21 May from 5-9pm at Mossley Mill.

Catering will be provided. Course delivery is subject to final approval.