Cork Airport has announced a new collaboration with Munster Technological University (MTU) Access Service to deliver a free, in-person single subject certificate, ‘Starting Strong: Essential Skills for Higher Education,’ commencing this month.
This 5-credit certificate is designed to support adult learners and students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds in gaining the core academic, digital, and personal development skills required to succeed in higher education.
It will be delivered using a universally designed, trauma-sensitive approach, in collaboration with the MTU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. MTU postgraduate students and academic staff will facilitate the initiative, with coordination provided by the Access Service team.
Supported by Cork Airport’s Community Fund, this initiative will allow participants to undertake the certificate free of charge, with educational supplies provided for all learners.
Over the duration of a 12-week semester, participants will engage in weekly lectures focused on:
Digital literacy and understanding misinformation
Navigating higher education
Academic reading and critical thinking
Academic writing and assignment preparation
Students will also gain practical skills such as using library databases, understanding academic texts, evaluating information sources, and producing professional CV’s and cover letters. Upon successful completion, learners will receive a Level 6 Single Subject Certificate worth 5 ECTS credits.
“This certificate is primarily about expanding access and creating opportunities for learners who may not have traditionally seen themselves in higher education. With the generous support of the Cork Airport Community Fund, we are proud to offer a practical, inclusive and accessible option to support learners to grow in confidence and unlock new educational possibilities,” said Laura Coleman, acting access officer at MTU.
Niall MaCarthy, managing director of Cork Airport, said: “Cork Airport is committed to investing in the communities we serve through our Community Fund. We are delighted to support MTU’s “Starting Strong” certificate, which will provide essential educational opportunities for individuals eager to grow and succeed. This is one of a number of important initiatives in the arts, culture, community and education space, supported by Cork Airport this year and we commend MTU for delivering this initiative.”
