Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does the course cost?

€300 for our accredited courses

€200 for our unaccredited courses

Assistance is available (see FAQ question 3)

2. When are the fees due?

We require a non refundable deposit of €50 before the commencement of courses with the remainder to be paid before the course finishes.

3. What assistance is available to pay the course fees?

There are a small number of bursaries available. For further information please contact info@ancosan.ie

4. What do I need to participate on a course?

Access to a broadband internet connection is recommended. For live classes we also recommend a laptop plus a headset and a microphone.

5. How many learners will be on the course?

We aim to have no more than 25 learners per course to enable real, personalised interaction between learners and tutors.

6. Are the courses accredited?

All of our higher level courses are officially accredited by South East Technological University and are recognised qualifications.

7. What does a community partner do?

The community partners are there to provide a communal space and support for learners to come together to access the coursework.

8. Is there a community partner in my area?

Please get in touch if you would like to see where your local community partner is. Our network of community partners is continuously growing and we have successfully ran courses nationwide.

9. What are the entry requirements?

For unaccredited programmes

We welcome all learners to our unaccredited programmes, including those with different learning abilities. To benefit from the programme, we recommend that learners have intermediate English language skills. If in doubt, please talk to the programme tutor. There are no compulsory assessments on our non-accredited programmes. Attendance and participation is based on the student’s interest in the subject and their love of learning.

For accredited programmes

Applicants should have completed the Leaving Certificate or a QQI (FETAC) Major Award at Level 5 preferably in the area of study or a related area. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Institute of Technology Carlow policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL). Applicants may be required to attend for an interview.

10. How can I pay?

By cheque , postal order and directly into the bank, we also have the facility to take payment by debit and credit card. If you have any questions please email us at info@ancosan.ie or call 01 462 8488.

11. Where can I get detailed descriptions of An Cosán courses and programmes?

You can get more detailed information via our brochure.

12. How much time should I invest each week to successfully complete a blended online programme?

Unaccredited programmes

For unaccredited programmes, you need to be available for one full day Induction workshop (6-hour face-to-face workshop) and 5 online sessions (2 hours per week).  It is recommended that participants allocate 1 hour per week for self-directed study to cover suggested readings and videos.

Accredited programmes

For accredited programmes, you need to be available for two full day workshops (2 x 6-hour face-to-face workshops) and 8 online sessions (2 hours per week).  It is recommended that participants allocate 3 hours per week for self-directed study to cover suggested readings and videos.

Community Partners

We partner with community education organisations around Ireland to provide access to virtual programmes at affordable rates. Local centres provide a place where students can access the technology they need, creating peer learning communities.

Learn more about our Community Partners

Digital Stepping Stones

Our Digital Stepping Stones (DSS) assessment tool makes it easy for people to find out what digital skills they have and where they need to upskill to fix any gaps in their personal digital divide.

Try the Digital Stepping Stones tool

Skills to Succeed Academy

Accenture and An Cosán have come together to roll out a virtual ‘Skills to Succeed Academy’ around Ireland. The interactive online training programme, developed by Accenture, gives people the skills and confidence to choose the right career and ultimately better position them to get a job or build a business. Contact our coordinator Mark Kelly to learn more at m.kelly@ancosan.ie

Register for Skills to Succeed