Experience is not what happens to you; its what you do with what happens to you –Alduos Huxley
Comhlámh produce a Careers and Courses booklet for anyone interested in working in the development sector or considering their various study options. It is available hard copy from the Comhlámh office.
Volunteering overseas can inspire a deeper interest in developing countries and the development process. Studying development in-depth can help you to locate your personal experiences within the broader global context and to critically reflect on your understanding.
Studying subjects related to development or the specific area that you hope to work in is also very important if you wish to pursue a career in development. While there is no clear career path into the development sector, a third level qualification or any further training will boost your employability. Before deciding on a study path, consider carefully if there is a specific area of development that you are interested in pursuing and if it is possible to tailor your study path with this in mind.
Course options
If you want to pursue a course of studies in this area, there are many possibilities: courses in development studies, development education, community and adult education, equality and intercultural studies, community and youth work, humanitarian aid and sustainable development are just some of the options available.
As well as in Ireland there are a vast number of courses in Britain and elsewhere. The Comhlámh booklet, Careers and Courses: Opportunities in the Development Sector, provides suggestions on a range of study options and contact details for a host of institutions both in Ireland and the UK.
Comhlámh also runs various skills based evening and weekend courses, from development education to trade justice. Visit the events section of this website for further information.
The following institutions run short courses during the year open to all participants:
One way to keep up to date on all the latest courses is to subscribe to Dóchas Wednesday News, this e-newsletter lists all the latest courses and training options in Ireland.
Funding for further studies
If funding is one of the barriers preventing you from pursuing further study then there are a few grants and schemes that could be useful for you. For more information about different schemes, grants and scholarships available and the criteria of eligibility see www.studentfinance.ie or www.citizensinformation.ie. These websites provide information about Higher Education Grants, Maintenance Grants and other bursaries and scholarships.
These websites also provide information on tax relief which may be gained on fees paid for most registered courses but check in advance.
Most grants for post-graduate studies are discretionary, so be prepared to ‘make your case’ as to why you merit a grant. Means testing, etc. may apply for grants from state bodies.