Pre-University Foundation in Social Science and Arts
The Pre-University Foundation in Social Science and Arts at City of Dublin FET College Ballyfermot Campus (formerly BCFE) is a premier one-year, full-time program designed for students aiming to progress to third-level university degrees. Registered under the course code ELS, this program awards a QQI Level 5 Certificate in General Studies (5M3114).
Whether you are a Leaving Certificate student looking for a dedicated bridge to university, or a mature learner returning to education, this course provides the academic foundation, research skills, and confidence required to excel in higher education.
Course Overview
This foundation course is specifically structured for those passionate about understanding people, politics, society, and culture. It serves as an ideal stepping stone into high-demand career sectors such as social work, public policy, education, sociology, history, and law. By mirroring the formatting and expectations of a university environment, it eases the transition to third-level education and significantly lowers university drop-out rates.
Course Details & Key Facts
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- College: City of Dublin FET College – Ballyfermot Campus (Southwest Campus)
- Course Code: ELS
- Award Level: NFQ Level 5
- Award Title: QQI Level 5 Certificate in General Studies (5M3114)
- Duration: 1 Year (September to May, Full-Time)
Course Content & Modules
To achieve the full QQI major award, students complete eight comprehensive modules. These are meticulously curated to balance theoretical knowledge with practical academic skills:
Core Modules
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- Social Studies (5N1370): Introduces fundamental sociological theories, analyzing class, gender, family structures, and modern diversity.
- Political Studies (5N1837): Examines political ideologies, national and international government systems, and civic engagement.
- Research & Study Skills (5N3113): Equips students with academic writing, critical thinking, referencing techniques, and library research methods.
- Communications (5N0690): Sharpens written, verbal, and visual communication skills, essential for university essays and presentations.
- Work Experience (5N1356): Features a structured placement where learners apply their skills within professional or community environments.
Elective Modules (Selection Typically Includes)
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- Statistics (5N1833): Builds quantitative analysis skills, highly valued in social science research.
- European Studies (5N1442): Explores the cultural, historical, and institutional layout of the European Union.
- Word Processing (5N1358): Master digital document creation to streamline academic assignments.
Entry Requirements
Ballyfermot Campus welcomes a diverse student body. Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
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- Leaving Certificate: A minimum of five O6/H7 grades.
- Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA): A full LCA with a Merit profile.
- QQI Qualifications: A full QQI Level 4 major award.
- Mature Applicants: Learners aged 21 or older can bypass formal academic requirements if they show relevant life experience or passion during their interview.
University Progression & CAO Opportunities
The primary benefit of the ELS course is its direct integration with the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). Graduates can convert their Level 5 achievements into CAO points to secure a place in competitive degree courses across Ireland.
Popular university progression routes include:
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- Trinity College Dublin (TCD): Broad-entry Arts and Social Sciences degrees.
- University College Dublin (UCD): BA in Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
- Dublin City University (DCU): Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours) or specialized Social Sciences.
- Maynooth University: Highly popular Arts and Social Science streams.
- TU Dublin: Community Development, Social Care, and Early Childhood degrees.
- Course Type : QQI Level 5
Contact Institute - City of Dublin FET College, Ballyfermot