BlueBrick.ie is a new website for finding part-time and other flexible courses provided by Ireland’s 14 Institutes of Technology.
Launching the free service, Minister for Education and Science Batt O’Keeffe said: “BlueBrick.ie is as important to part-time learners as the CAO is to direct entrants and school leavers.”
While the Central Applications Office (CAO) mainly deals with applications for full-time undergraduate courses, BlueBrick.ie will handle applications for flexible learning. Some 350 modules and courses are already available on BlueBrick.ie in science, engineering, technology and other subject areas.
Part-time and distance courses
Flexible learning refers to “non-traditional” courses offered by these colleges, including part-time, evening, online and distance courses. The programmes on offer are aimed at people irrespective of their employment status, and all the courses are accredited.
Dr Richard Thorn, Director of Flexible Learning and Research at Institutes of Technology Ireland, said: “BlueBrick.ie is designed to recognise that learners make their educational journeys at different speeds and in different ways.
“We are increasing the capacity of the Institutes to provide more flexible learning and distance learning opportunities and offer greater recognition of, and engagement with, work-based learning.”
