About Addiction Studies, UG:Diploma - at Trinity College Dublin
The Diploma in Addiction Studies provides students with an opportunity to explore the complex issues which arise in the context of problematic alcohol and drug use. The course aims to demystify drug and alcohol use and to provide a generic focus in training and education. A broad range of issues is examined at both academic and practice levels and participants leave the programme with skills in at least one of the major addiction counselling models.
For whom is the course designed?This course is aimed at those already working in the alcohol and drugs field, those wishing to work in the field, and those who work in areas where they may come into contact with problem alcohol or drug users; probation officers, gardai, social workers, public health nurses, psychiatric nurses, general nurses, community workers, volunteers - who wish to augment their knowledge and return to their workplaces with new learning and experience.
Course Structure and ContentThe Diploma course is a one-year full-time programme and consists of two terms' academic work together with a ten-week fieldwork placement. The programme is multi-disciplinary and draws on the knowledge bases of many different departments within the University. Sociology, Social Research, Psychology, Family and Criminal Law, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Drug and Alcohol Policy and Drugs Education, are some of the subjects covered and make this a stimulating and interesting course. The course also focuses on the major theories and models of addiction counselling and examines a range of approaches in the field. Skills training is an integral part of this programme.
Teaching and AssessmentThe course is full-time with both didactic and experiential focused work. Assessment is on-going throughout the year and it is required to complete a number of projects and essays, including a fieldwork placement report or practice study and a Major Final Project.
AdmissionEach year the course is advertised in the national newspapers in March. Interviews take place in late April/early May.
