Community-Based and Outreach Access Programmes 

These initiatives bring third-level education out of the campus and into communities, libraries and local centres, removing the barriers that keep adults from disadvantaged backgrounds away from higher education. 

Unblocking Potential (Ulster University) 

Delivered in community venues across Northern Ireland since 2015, this flipped-learning programme brings university-accredited modules to adults from working-class and marginalised communities, helping them build confidence and progress toward a degree in Community Development. Nearly 300 participants have accessed higher education through the programme, with several graduates going on to become tutors delivering it themselves. 

Level 7 Women, Gender and Social Justice Community/University Outreach Programme (UCD & WCI Ronanstown) 

A 25-year partnership between UCD and Women’s Collective Ireland Ronanstown, this feminist, community-based programme offers women from disadvantaged backgrounds a Level 7 University Certificate through blended learning. It is backed by childcare, mentoring and laptop loans. Over 200 women have graduated to date, with 88% reporting increased self-confidence and many progressing to further study, employment or community leadership roles.

The Certificate in Transition to Higher Education (TUS) 

TUS Midwest Access Service’s 24-week foundation programme supports adults from areas of severe social and economic disadvantage in Limerick, Clare and Tipperary to build the academic and personal skills needed for third-level study. Delivered through strong community partnerships, the programme has helped learners — including members of the Traveller community — progress into full degree programmes. 

Certificate in Community Studies Special Purpose Award (Waterford & Wexford ETB & SETU) 

The Certificate in Community Studies is a fully funded Level 6 outreach award for rural community workers and volunteers in Waterford. It is delivered in partnership between Waterford Wexford ETB and SETU. Of the 12 participants who completed the certificate, eight progressed onto the Higher Certificate in Community Education and Development, with others moving into employment in the community sector. 

Making Connections South Tipperary Local Training Initiative 

A community-based Local Training Initiative in Clonmel offering a flexible QQI Level 3 Employability Skills award to adults facing substance misuse, homelessness and mental health challenges. Over the past two years, 84% of learners have progressed to further education or employment, supported by close links with local health, housing and addiction services. 

ComMUniversity (Maynooth University) 

A three-way partnership between Maynooth University, Local Development Companies and the public library service, the ComMUniversity brings university-level courses into the familiar setting of local libraries across Leinster and disadvantaged parts of Dublin. Since 2011, around 500 participants have taken part, with many describing the experience as a crucial first step toward returning to formal education. 

Community Wellness, Empowerment, Leadership and Lifeskills (CWELL) Diploma (University of Limerick) 

Co-designed with Limerick communities, CWELL is a part-time Level 7 diploma combining personal development, wellbeing and community leadership skills with a core, co-designed community project. Since 2015, 55 students — many with experience of early school leaving, homelessness or addiction recovery — have graduated, going on to further study or work in their communities.