The DIFET Framework Programme is a strategic collaboration between the City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB) and the School of Education at Trinity College Dublin. Developed in line with national priorities, the programme addresses the professional development needs of those working across the Further Education and Training (FET) sector in Ireland.
The Diversity and Inclusion in Further Education and Training Framework Programme is ideal for educators, trainers, administrators, and professionals involved in education and training. This Postgraduate Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion in Further Education and Training at Trinity College Dublin is designed to support those seeking to foster inclusive learning environments and improve outcomes for students with diverse needs.
Participants will:
Evaluate key theories and knowledge related to learners with diverse educational needs in FET settings.
Analyse the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and assess its application in creating inclusive learning environments.
Apply inclusion and diversity principles to teaching, learning, and assessment, aligning with professional FET standards.
Engage in collaborative professional dialogue to support a culture of continuous learning across the FET sector.
The programme is delivered part-time over three years, offering a flexible learning pathway through three distinct qualifications:
Year 1 – Postgraduate Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion (30 ECTS):
Module 1: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Module 2: Inclusive Practices using Universal Design for Learning
Module 3: Speaking to Diversity
Year 2 – Diploma in Diversity and Inclusion in Further Education and Training (30 ECTS):
Module 4: Developing Relational Expertise
Module 5: Theorising Universal Design for Learning
Module 6: Transformative Leadership
Year 3 – Master’s in Diversity and Inclusion in Further Education and Training (30 ECTS):
Completion of a Research Dissertation, informed by the first two years of study.
The DIFET Framework is:
Universally designed
Blended learning (a mix of face-to-face and online)
Part-time, enabling professionals to balance study and work
Assessed through continuous assessment
Reflective, with a focus on personal and professional development
Centred around developing Communities of Practice
Graduates of the programme have gone on to take up roles such as:
Inclusive leaders in education
Academic researchers
Disability support practitioners and managers
Policy and project analysts
Disability advocates
Inclusive education practitioners
For the upcoming academic year, applications are limited to those who have received sponsorship approval from the City of Dublin ETB, Dublin and Dún Laoghaire ETB, or other approved ETBs. Interested applicants must consult their Professional Learning and Development Coordinator before applying.
