MIC Pre-University Programme: Opening Doors for Mature Learners
Mary Immaculate College (MIC) is proud to announce that applications for its free Pre-University Programme (PUP) are now open. This innovative initiative, offered by MIC’s Academic Learning Centre (ALC) in collaboration with Our Lady of Lourdes Community Services Group, is specifically tailored for mature learners over the age of 22. The programme aims to provide a gateway to higher education for those who may have faced barriers in accessing traditional pathways to university.
Empowering Underrepresented Groups
At MIC, we are dedicated to widening access to education for individuals from diverse backgrounds. The Pre-University Programme serves as a stepping stone for underrepresented groups such as the Traveller Community, unemployed individuals, single parents, and those facing urban or rural disadvantage. By offering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, we strive to empower these learners to pursue their academic aspirations and achieve success at the university level.
Rob O’Halloran, MIC Student Life Officer, emphasizes the importance of the PUP in providing a taste of higher education and developing essential skills for academic success. He notes, “We welcome applications from under-represented groups such as those from the Traveller Community, unemployed, single parents, and those from an urban or rural disadvantage. We currently have three first year pupils on our Bachelor of Arts (BA) programme who undertook the PUP last year, so we’re seeing the benefits of it now.”
A Pathway to Success
The Pre-University Programme is a 24-hour certificate course that culminates in a Level 6 Special Purpose Award upon completion. Over the course of eight weeks, participants engage in core subjects like History and Philosophy, as well as a specialized Academic Writing skills program. Vicky Griffin, a current MIC BA student and PUP graduate, shares her transformative experience with the programme, stating, “Before doing the PUP course I had dreamed of going to college. Doing the PUP course gave me the confidence and tools I needed to achieve my goals of going to full-time college.”
Dr. Paul O’Brien, PUP Programme Coordinator at MIC’s Academic Learning Centre, expresses his enthusiasm for offering this educational opportunity to individuals whose previous access to education may have been limited. He emphasizes the supportive and welcoming environment of the programme, stating, “The programme will be delivered in a friendly and supportive environment and is an ideal starting point to begin your educational journey.”
Enrollment Details and Application Deadline
Classes for the Pre-University Programme will be held at MIC Limerick, one morning per week, starting on Wednesday, October 16th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. The closing date for applications is Friday, October 11th. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot in this transformative educational experience.
In conclusion, the MIC Pre-University Programme stands as a beacon of opportunity for mature learners seeking to embark on their educational journey. By offering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, MIC is committed to empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to realize their academic aspirations and pursue success at the university level. Apply now and take the first step towards a brighter future with the MIC Pre-University Programme.
