In order to support the 4000 new students each year, we have a wide range of high-quality, professional services which are detailed below. However, we also operates an innovative “student agency” model, which uses highly trained senior students to run activities and support incoming students.
As a result, there are over 1400 student leaders who act in various roles: Peer Mentors; Student Ambassadors; Society Committee members; Orientation Guides; DITSU Class Reps; Sports Club Committee members; and Access Student Leaders. These student leaders receive training around public speaking, time management, communication and leadership - skills that will be extremely valuable in their future careers.
Another innovation introduced to support students is the Orientation for Parents of incoming students which was developed following research showing that when Irish students had difficulties around mental health, academic progress, or finance, they were most likely to consult their parents. It is therefore very helpful if parents can be confident in encouraging their student son or daughter to seek help from supports such as Counselling.
The Careers Development Centre engages with students’ right from the time they arrive in first year and has developed the award winning Transitions programme specifically for them.
Access Foundation Programme
We offer a free one-year foundation course for both mature students and young adults (17 – 22) to prepare them for entry into third level. The course is of particular benefit to those who may not meet the minimum entry requirements for full-time undergraduate courses. Successful graduates of this programme are guaranteed entry to undergraduate programmes in TU Dublin - Dublin City.
Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS) - HELS provides progression opportunities for learners achieving QQI-Fetac Level 5 and Level 6 major awards and who are interested in applying through the CAO to progress to higher qualifications.
National Access Routes – We reserve 5% of places on all full-time undergraduate programmes to offer on a reduced points basis to DARE-eligible students and 5% of places for students entering TU Dublin through HEAR.
Post-entry supports:
Registered Access students can avail of a dedicated support programme which includes:
- A five-day Orientation Programme
- Information evening for students, parents and family members
- Academic support including study skills and additional tutorials
- Individual support and referral to full range of student services
- Financial advice and guidance
- Opportunity to be involved in the ACE Student Leadership Launchpad
- A dedicated peer mentor throughout 1st year of college for support, advice and guidance
- Ongoing advice and information, attendance at Access Student Forum, social events, volunteering opportunities etc.
Specific supports for students with disabilities - The Disability Support Service assist students in competing academically with their peers through the provision of supports and reasonable accommodations.
Student Assistance Fund (SAF) - provides support to whole-time students in severe financial difficulties due to unforeseen circumstances or to students who are disadvantaged and require additional financial support to continue their third-level studies.
This is not an exhaustive list of the supports available to students and more information can be found on our website.