Professional Diploma in Education (Ethical & Multidenominational Education)

This Postgraduate Diploma was first introduced in 2013 as the first approach of its kind in Irish education. It is designed to develop expertise in multi-denominational education. It is particularly, but not exclusively, aimed at teachers with an interest in teaching in multi-denominational schools.

In an Irish context, the multi-denominational sector is increasingly differentiated. Alongside the more established Educate Together primary schools, there has been the more recent emergence of Community National Schools. The ETB sector of schools at secondary level is also predominantly multi-denominational. Moreover, the diversity of pupils within the denominational sector has led to increased interest in alternative models of ethics and RE. At a curriculum level, there have also been efforts to develop a national curriculum in Education about Religion and Beliefs and Ethics (ERBE) by NCCA.

Our modules explore the theory and practice of multi-denominational and ethical education, democracy and education as well as investigating pluralist pedagogy in curriculum. Reference is made to both primary and post primary levels of schooling in Ireland, and to the wider European and international context. Opportunities are available for further study in this area through to doctoral (EdD) level in Values Education

The overall aim of the course is to develop the skills and competencies of primary and post-primary mainstream class teachers in response to the demands of multi-denominational educational policy and practice. In particular, the course aims to provide an opportunity for teachers to develop knowledge, skills and competencies in key areas of multi-denominational and ethical educational provision and planning at school and class level.

This programme aims to offer professional development to individual teachers in the area of multi-denominational and ethical education. It also aims to create a community of learners who will communicate and collaborate with each other in support of the teaching and learning of pupils from a multi-denominational and ethical perspective in schools.

Certificate

4 modules | Minimum study time: 12 months

Philosophies of Ethical and Multi-Denominational Education

Democracy and Education

Curriculum and Pedagogy (in Multi-denominational school settings)

Ethical Leadership

Diploma
As for Certificate plus one year long research module commencing in September each year | Minimum study time: 2 years

For more information, see: https://www.dcu.ie/courses/postgraduate/institute-education/professional-diploma-education-ethical