Programmes: Distance Learning: Certificate/Diploma in Employee Assistance and Social Support

The Diploma in Employee Assistance and Social Support is a 2-year, blended learning training programme for staff working or intending to work in Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). The programme provides knowledge and basic training in the skills necessary to fulfil the role of an EAP practitioner. The programme is broadly based in recognition of the very different functions and responsibilities allocated to the EAP support role in different types of enterprise and organisations.

 The aim of the course is to offer participants a broad range of knowledge and skills that will equip them to work in EAPs. On successful completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Describe and explain the origins of Employee Assistance and differing national approaches to EAP policies, legislation and practice in the European Union.
• Demonstrate in their work an ability to use a wide range of interpersonal skills appropriate to the needs of their clients.
• Demonstrate the ability to respond with appropriate skills to a wide range of frequently occurring workplace problems.
• Describe and advise on different ways of providing EAP services in a workplace.
  

Intended for:

The programme is particularly suitable for staff working in Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and who wish to update their skills.

Programme content Year 1

There are five modules in each year. The modules in the Certificate year (Year 1), focusing on the basic knowledge and skills for the practice of employee assistance are:

• Employee Assistance; Origins, Principles and Organisations
• Individual Help in the Employee Assistance Process
• Problem Management and Creativity
• Negotiations and Negotiation Skills
• The Legal and Policy Framework of EAP

Programme content Year 2

In the Diploma year (Year 2), the focus is on workplace problems that are encountered particularly frequently. Processes and procedures for managing and coping with these problems are explained and the interpersonal skills needed at the various stages of these procedures identified and practised. The modules in the second year are:

• Practical Research and Writing
• Employee Assistance – Psychological Trauma
• Depression and Common Mental Disorders in EAP
• Employee Assistance - Bullying and Harassment
• Responding to Substance Misuse in the workplace 

 Entry requirements

Applicants must have reached 21 years of age on 1 January of the calendar year of entry.  Applicants should have appropriate experience in some area of Human Resources or Employee Assistance and should be in a position to undertake course assignments and projects in a Human Resources or EAP setting.

Application procedure

Application forms are available from and should be returned to the Course Administrator, Adult and Continuing Education Office, NUI Galway. Download 2009 brocure and application form.

Assessment

Assessment is by means of two assignments for each module (a learning review diary and an assignment), plus an end of year project for each year of the course.

Duration/attendance requirements

The Diploma programme is a 2-year, part-time training programme. A full set of self-paced, self-instructional learning materials is provided at the start of each module. The time it takes to work through a module depends on the individual student. Participants are required to attend five, 2-day workshops each year.  Attendance at workshops is a key programme requirement.  

Award

NUI Certificate in Employee Assistance & Social Support – after successful completion of the first year.

NUI Diploma in Employee Assistance & Social Support – after successful completion of the second year.

Annual fee

The EU fee for 2009/10 is €2,750 per annum. This fee is subject to a yearly review.

Enquiries

Fiona Dwyer
Adult & Continuing Education Office
NUI Galway
Phone: 091 495442Fax: 091 494051
Email: fiona.dwyernuigalway.ie

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