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 leaflet, Careers and Courses Information: third-level and post-graduate studies in development related areas, provides suggestions on a range of study options and contact details for a host of institutions both in Ireland and in the UK. Please contact Comhlámh for a free hard copy, or download the leaflet here
Comhlámh also runs various skills based evening and weekend courses, from development education to trade justice. Visit the training section of this website for further information.
Funding for further studies
You may be eligible for a grant for further studies from your local county council or corporation - that is if you have not previously had a grant at post-graduate level. Contact your local authority to ask. If you have been on social welfare for more than six months the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs may decide to continue your welfare payment during your studies (ask for the form SW70).
Tax relief may be gained on fees paid for most registered courses but check in advance.
Some development agencies offer both full and partial grants to returned development workers to engage in further studies. Mostly these need to be in an area related to development work. Some development agency grants require that you make a commitment to go overseas again. Some professional or industrial bodies also offer grants, so depending on your area of interest (e.g. medicine), you may be able to find alternate sources.
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.