TUS secures funding extension for “life-changing” CALSD Programme

TUS secures funding extension for “life-changing” CALSD Programme. Pictured at the Launch of Cert in Applied Learning Skills in October last year at TUS Moylish are students. L-R Niamh Barrett, Alannah Moloney, Guest speaker Cara Darmody, Pater Kavanagh, Kayla Rietveld and Pauline Nagle. Pic Arthur Ellis

TUS secures further funding for its Certificate in Applied Learning and Skills Development (CALSD) Level 6 programme for adults with intellectual disabilities 

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has secured further funding for its Certificate in Applied Learning and Skills Development (CALSD) Level 6 programme for adults with intellectual disabilities.  

This extension ensures that the higher education programme will run until at least 2028. The CALSD focuses on applied learning to ensure students are ready and empowered to pursue meaningful employment or further study.

Twenty-one students are currently enrolled in the full-time CALSD across the Moylish and Athlone campuses. The programme, which is specifically designed with a focus on inclusivity, personal development, and preparation for employment, is funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) under PATH 4 (Programme for Access to Higher Education).  

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Following the successful pilot launch of the programme last year, TUS will welcome a new group of students to its Moylish and Athlone campuses this September.

Commenting on the funding extension, President of TUS, Professor Vincent Cunnane, said, “Securing PATH 4 funding for another two years is central in ensuring that every student has an equal opportunity to achieve their potential within a university environment. This is not just about skills; it is about building a dynamic, close-knit community where diversity is our key strength.”

Co-Ordinator of the CALSD Programme at TUS on the Moylish campus, Aoife Keogh, said, “I have worked in the intellectual disability sector for over 30 years, and I can see how students have benefited socially, emotionally, and personally through this PATH 4-funded programme. Their confidence and pride in what they have achieved during the programme has highlighted how this is the most positive and life‑changing initiative I have witnessed.  

“The students who joined us just over a year ago arrived shy and quiet. Today, they have blossomed into confident and capable young adults, with a strong belief in themselves and their ability to succeed in further education and employment. It has been a privilege to be part of this programme. I’m very proud of the students and of our team for what we have achieved in a short time. I very much look forward to continuing this important work into the future.”

The four-semester certificate comprises of both compulsory and elective modules with supported work placement taking place in its final semester.

Modules include Skills for Higher Education, Wellbeing and Advocacy in Higher Education and Society, Placement Preparation and Professional Reflection for Placement whilst electives include Introduction to Culinary Arts, Sport and Coaching Skills and Creative and Recreational Studies.  

Prospective students and their families are invited to learn more about the 2026 intake at tus.ie/applied-learning. The closing date for applications is May 18th 2026.