| Code | DLDP |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 teaching periods |
| Teaching Mode | Part-Time |
| Qualifications | Dip |
| NFQ Level | Level 7 |
| NFQ Award Title | Special purpose |
| Fees | Course fees are collected by the L&DI. See Fees and Costs for full details. |
| Closing Date | Round One: 26 June 2026 |
| Venue | Online |
| Start Date | 25 September 2026 |
Course Outline
The Diploma in Learning and Development Practice, offered in partnership with the Learning and Development Institute, aims to provide a structured and authentic learning opportunity for those wishing to acquire an academic and practical knowledge of the learning and development profession. In addition it aims to arm the student with a practical skill repertoire to give him/her standing within the learning and development profession as strategic business partner utilising impactful learning and development intervention. The Diploma in Learning and Development Practice is intended for those involved in learning and development in organisations and those self-employed within the private training provider industry, including those who currently are not in employment. It is also applicable to those who are entering the learning and development profession as well as those involved in the administration of training wishing to enhance their knowledge and skill set in this field.
Throughout this programme the student will be guided through an academic grounding and practical skill development across the span of the learning and development specialist’s role.
Students take modules to the value of 60 credits as follows:
The Modules for the Diploma are as follows:
- : Learning and Development in Organisations
- : Positioning Learning and Development in Organisations
- : Designing Learning and Development Activities
- : Measuring Effectiveness of Learning and Development
- : Coaching and Mentoring in Organisations
- : Contemporary Developments in Learning and Development
- : Becoming a Learning and Development Specialist
- : Technology Enhanced Learning
Learners who successfully complete all modules will be awarded the Diploma in Learning and Development Practice. Those exiting with modules AD1023, AD1024, AD1025, and AD1026 will be awarded a Certificate in Learning and Development Practice.鈥�
Course Queries
For Academic Queries and Course Content Queries please contact the Programme Coordinator Miriam Fernandez at Miriam.Fernandez@ucc.ie or Learning and Development Institute at info@landdi.ie
If you require further assistance with your online application please contact the Programme Administrator Louise Fleming at l.fleming@ucc.ie.
Course Practicalities
This is a part-time programme, delivered over three defined teaching periods via blocks of learning there within. Lectures will take place on Fridays and Saturdays from 9.00am to 5.00pm. (Those wishing to exit following the completion of the first 30 credits will leave with the award of a Certificate in Learning and Development Practice).
The Programme is delivered through attendance at lectures and facilitated workshop events, Self-study using dedicated learning materials.
Proposed schedule for 2026 can be viewed here: DLDP Provisional Schedule 2026. Please note this schedule is subject to change.
Assessment:
The Diploma in Learning and Development Practice utilises a range of continuous assessment approaches including work-based assignment, presentation, online discussion forum and CPD Planning.
Why Choose This Course
Following completion of this programme the student can use the qualification to pursue a career in learning and development provision; ranging from learning event design to the delivery of training, in a variety of organisational settings. Students could also pursue the delivery of learning needs assessment on a consultancy basis. This qualification can also be put forward for an application for IITD membership and related professional development activity.
Requirements
Programme Entry Requirements:
Applicants should:
- Be at least 21 years of age by 1 January of the year of application
- Hold a Leaving Certificate/QQI level 5 qualification or equivalent.
- This programme is open to those in employment, self-employed and those who are unemployed.
- Diploma programmes are offered subject to a minimum number of eligible applicants registering for the programme.
English Language Requirements:
All applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency. See the UCC English language proficiency requirements.
Fees and Costs
Full Cost: €3,150
Learning & Development Skillnet Price: €2,450
How To Apply
Applications are accepted in two rounds.
- Round 1 closes on 26 June and Round 2 closes on 28 August.
- Please note: if all places are filled by eligible applicants by the Round 1 deadline, the programme will not open for Round 2.
- For round 2, applications will remain open until the final deadline or until all places are filled, whichever occurs first. Early application is strongly advised.
Before you apply, please prepare the following items which you will need during your application:
- Proof of Identity (Birth Cert, Passport or Driver's Licence)
- Passport-style Photograph
- Application/Motivation statement explaining your interest in the course
- English Language Test Report (if applicable)
- An up-to-date CV
- Transcripts
- Supporting documentation if required for RPL
Start Your Application
Create an account or login to UCC Apply (click the 'Apply' button below).
- Start a new application
- WHEN ASKED FOR APPLICATION TYPE - YOU MUST CHOOSE: ADULT & CONTINUING EDUCATION
- During the application on the tab titled Academic Level, under Level Selection, select the following options:
- Academic Level: Adult Continuing Education (ACE at UCC)
- Course Type: ACE Part-time Courses
- Academic Programme: Learning and Development Practice - Dip (Online ACE)
A step-by-step visual application guide for this specific programme is available – please email the Programme Coordinator. You can view a general application guide for all part-time programmes here: /en/ace/helphub/