.MUNSTER Technological University (MTU) will launch a dedicated higher education programme for adults with intellectual disabilities and learning difficulties at its Kerry campus this September.
The Certificate in Personal and Professional Development for Employability and Further Studies will give ten students the opportunity to earn a two-year, part-time Level 5 qualification while participating fully in university life.
Delivered through MTU’s EmpowerEd programme, the course is funded under Path 4 Phase 2 of the Government’s National Access Plan. It aims to widen access to higher education for students who have traditionally had limited opportunities to progress to third level.
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The curriculum combines academic, personal and career development. Students will complete dedicated modules in Advocacy, Human Rights and Personal Development, with practical electives including Food and Beverage Preparation and Culture, Health and Wellbeing.
A co-learning model will allow participants to take selected classes alongside the wider undergraduate population. Students will also undertake study visits and have opportunities to join MTU’s social and sporting societies.
Preparation for employment will be embedded throughout the programme. Students will progress from work-shadowing opportunities within areas such as MTU’s library, IT and student services to external placements with employers across the region. Programme partners include Tralee Chamber Alliance and Kerry Group.
Dedicated academic support staff, social engagement facilitators and a work placement coordinator will assist students throughout their studies.
The programme builds on a successful pilot at MTU’s Kerry campus. Pilot participant Méabh Rohan completed modules in Tourism and Hospitality, Culture Health and Wellbeing, and catering, while also developing her confidence, independence and workplace skills.
Encouraging prospective students to take up the opportunity, Méabh said: “Be yourself and give the course a try. You get to meet people, find things you have in common and learn new skills.”
Commenting on the launch, Gerard O’Carroll, EmpowerEd Programme Coordinator at MTU Kerry, said; “EmpowerEd marks a vital step towards making higher education genuinely inclusive across the southwest. It goes beyond academic study, using a rights-based framework to help students participate fully in university life, develop self-advocacy and gain meaningful workplace skills.
“By partnering with businesses and community networks across Kerry, we are opening sustainable pathways to employment and demonstrating the immense value these students bring to our workplaces and communities.”
MTU is inviting employers and community organisations across the region to engage with the programme and explore work-placement and employment opportunities for EmpowerEd students.
For further information and to apply, please visit: https://www.mtu.ie/courses/tlsppdeu/ The application deadline is 20th September 2026.
