Introduction to the Programme.
This QQI Level 6 programme will be delivered over two academic years and will consist of modularised content to be delivered in 2 semesters per academic year.
Entry Requirements
Entry to the programme will be offered to those sponsored by the Citizens Information Board who meet the minimum ITB requirements as outlined below:
+The minimum entry standard for applicants under the age of 23 is a grade D3 (ordinary level) in the leaving certificate examination in five subjects including mathematics and either English or Irish.
+Mature applicants may be admitted without meeting these formal entry requirements based on Recognition of Prior Learning.
All students will have met the criteria of the Citizens Information Board’s selection process
+Competence in the use of IT
+Six months’ experience (equivalent to 900 hrs) in your information service by 18th September, 2017
+Completion of the new Information ProvidersInduction Training programme in the CIS
+Commitment to complete the full award over two years.
Note: Priority will be given to participants on a CE Scheme requiring the completion of a major accredited training award.
Course Structure
Year one
Aims to provide the student with the knowledge, skills and competence required to work effectively in information provision and advice, taking full responsibility for their own actions, but remaining under the supervision of a more senior practitioner.
Semester 1 - Modules
+Communications in an Information Setting
+Principles and Practice in Information Provision
+Social Welfare and Income Benefits
+Introduction to Employment Law and Consumer Law
+Equality and Diversity
+Health Entitlements in Ireland
Semester 2 - Modules
+Communications in an Information Setting
+Work Based Skills
+Social Welfare and Income Benefits
+Introduction to Family Law, Immigration and Nationality
+Housing and Accommodation
+Personal Taxation
Year Two
Aims to provide the student with the knowledge, skills and competence required to work effectively and autonomously in a range of advocacy roles.
Semester 3 - Modules
+Introduction to Advocacy
+Social Policy
+Social Welfare Advocacy
+Advocating for Employment Rights and Representation
+Communications for Advocacy
+Advocacy across a Range of Rights Areas
Semester 4 - Modules
+Information Systems
+Social Welfare Advocacy
+Advocating for Employment Rights and Representations
+Communications for Advocacy
+Advocacy across a Range of Rights Areas
+Advanced Work Based Skills
Application Process
Students for the programme must be nominated for registration by the local CIS Development Managers. On meeting the CIB selection criteria for the programme, students will then apply on-line with ITB.
IPAP Centres
The tutorial and assessment locations proposed for the programme to start in September 2017 are:
+Dublin
+Athlone
+Cork
These locations are subject to minimum numbers being available
Semester Dates:
IPAP will be delivered over 2 Years with two Semesters per year.
Year 1
Semester 1: 18th Sept 2017—15th Dec 2017
Semester 2: 22nd Jan 2018—4th May 2018
Year 2 will commence in September 2018 dates to be confirmed.
For more Information please contact ITB by email at
How will I learn?
This programme will be delivered using a blending learning approach. Learning will be facilitated through the following:
+Innovative methods of delivery providing a mix of lectures, tutorials, webinars, practice and blended learning using new technologies and a multimedia approach in an atmosphere that is open and positive.
+Problem Solving using individual and collaborative group exercises
+Active and critical use of prior knowledge and experience
+Reinforce learning with the effective use of self-reflection that informs discussion groups, course assignments, directed private study and student presentations
+Frequent feedback to students on Assessments
Students will also attend2 induction/tutorial days per semester.
Each semester, the student will have two webinars per module (12 webinars x 1.5 hours).
One assessment day will take place per semester.
Information Provision and Advocacy Practice