For many of our students, returning to education later in life isn’t just about gaining new knowledge, it’s about rediscovering curiosity, confidence, and community. The Diploma in Heritage and Folklore Studies at UCC ACE attracts people of all ages. Some are passionate about their local history, others are looking to return to education now they are retired, and many simply want to learn more about the stories, customs, and traditions that shape who we are.

Here’s what a few of them have to say about their experience so far.

One of the world’s leading experts on gut health will give a free public lecture in University College Cork (UCC) at the annual Adult Continuing Education’s Myrtle Allen Memorial Lecture. 

University College Cork (UCC) and BioPharmaChem Skillnet are delighted to announce that their collaborative programme, the Certificate in CPD: Neurodiversity in the Workplace, has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 L&DI Excellence in Learning Awards.

Margaret Casey is dedicated to empowering the Travelling Community and advocating for long-term housing solutions and equality. In conjunction with the Adult Continuing Education team Mags also supports Traveller participants in studying the Diploma in Youth and Community Work in Adult Continuing Education UCC, increasing the vitally important representation of the Traveller community in third level education in Ireland.

Lyndsey El Amoud is committed to making education truly accessible. As Deputy Director of ACE UCC, she develops programmes that support lifelong learning and works on national policy initiatives to break down barriers. Through projects like Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), she ensures that people from all backgrounds can access education. Lyndsey believes that real inclusion goes beyond access—it’s about creating learning environments where everyone feels supported.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, we take the opportunity to highlight the stories of inspiring women connected to Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at UCC. These women are making an impact in their communities, institutions, and beyond, shaping a more inclusive and equitable future. From advocating for Traveller rights and improving access to lifelong learning to breaking barriers in leadership, each of these women exemplifies resilience, passion, and a commitment to change.

Bridget Doyle is dedicated to empowering the Travelling Community and advocating for long-term housing solutions and equality. Currently studying the Diploma in Youth and Community Work at Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at UCC, Bridget believes education is key to driving change. We caught up with Bridget ahead of International Women's Day to discuss her thoughts on the need for change, overcoming the challenges she faces as a Traveller, and how women can be better allies. 

Join us at UCC on Thursday, 3 April, for an engaging and interactive Workshop. Whether you’re looking to upskill, explore new learning opportunities, or advance your career, this workshop is designed to help you plan your next steps with confidence.

A group of 12 Traveller women were awarded Certificates for successfully completing the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Certificate in Community Based Mentoring.

As Ireland celebrates St Brigid’s Day, we reflect on the layers of history, folklore, and cultural significance surrounding this powerful figure.

Are you passionate about fostering inclusive workplaces and communities? Do you want to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others? 

ACE at UCC congratulates Director Dr. Séamus Ó Tuama on receiving the 2024 AAACE President’s Appreciation Award, recognising his exemplary contributions to adult and continuing education globally.

Eighteen Tirlán famers have proudly graduated as the second group of family farm sippliers from the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy. This year's graduates complete their Diploma in Environment, Sustainability and Climate from University College Cork (UCC).

A unique opportunity to become a certified Lego Serious Play (LSP) facilitator with a two-day training programme led by Dr. Briony Supple

Last week, the first cohort of students from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) began their journey in the Certificate in Work and Organisational Leadership with Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at University College Cork (UCC).

The Head Teacher at the Education Unit at Cork Prison Edel Cunningham has been awarded by University College Cork for her work. 

Adult Continuing Education (ACE), in partnership with the School of Education at University College Cork (UCC), proudly welcomed the first-ever cohort of students enrolled in the Postgraduate Diploma in Further, Adult, and Community Education (PDFACE).

Criminal behaviour has long been a subject of fascination, both for professionals in the field and the general public. But what drives individuals to commit violent crimes? How can forensic psychology help us understand the inner workings of some of the most dangerous minds in society?

ACE is delighted to share that AIEB has granted us 6 student bursaries for year 1 of the Diploma in Youth and Community Work. 

The urge to return to UCC reached its tipping point during COVID. He started looking up courses and the Master’s in Personal and Management Coaching caught his eye.

Adult Continuing Education at University College Cork (UCC) has announced the appointment of Dr Darina Allen as Adjunct Professor to Adult Continuing Education and the Department of Folklore and Ethnology.

Following from hugely successful participation and delivery last year, the RPL Digital Badge, in partnership with The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education is back, offering participants an excellent introduction to all things RPL.

A group of students at Cork Prison have today (Friday, February 23) been presented with awards recognising their completion of a module on Substance Misuse and Addiction Studies. This course was developed originally by University College Cork (UCC), the HSE Addiction Services and James Leonard of ‘The Two Norries’ Podcast in collaboration with teaching staff in Cork ETB’s Education Unit.

Discover the history of adult education and lifelong learning at UCC in Dr Alan McCarthy's book; 'The Laurels: Adult Education and Lifelong Learning at UCC, 1946-2022'. Commissioned by ACE at UCC for the 75^th anniversary, the book is now available to purchase at UCC University Press online here: https://www.corkuniversitypress.com/9781782054887/the-laurels/ 

UCC proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of 15 graduates from its new Certificates in Social Citizenship and Disability-Inclusive Practice. These one-year courses, offered through ACE at UCC in collaboration with the ID+ project at UCC aims to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities and equip these students to champion disability inclusion.

New microcredential to strengthen the talent pipeline for Ireland’s BioPharmaChem sector.

The global top 10 Biopharmaceutical companies operate in Ireland.

84,000 employed in the sector and this is expected to will increase by up to 10,000 jobs over the next five years.

Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at University College Cork presented its annual Bertram Windle Award to Tina Neylon, Founding Coordinator of the Lifelong Learning Festival at an award ceremony in City Hall on the 28th of September. Tina Neylon was presented with the award in recognition of for her exemplary contribution to lifelong learning as Founding Coordinator of the Lifelong Learning Festival. 

• New research has found many children are experiencing ‘high levels’ of disadvantage.
• This research explores the barriers to education for Traveller children.
• The report outlines 20 recommendations.

A new report has revealed that there are significant barriers to education faced by Traveller children living in the north Cork region. The report has discovered that many children still experience ‘high levels of disadvantage’ across the area.

On Thursday, 28^th September 2023, Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at UCC will launch 'The Laurels: Adult Education and Lifelong Learning at UCC, 1946-2022' a book written by  Dr. Alan McCarthy followed by the annual Alfred O'Rahilly Lecture and the presentation of the 2023 Bertram Windle Award. 

Admissions are open for part-time courses in 'Environment & Sustainability' at ACE UCC! Explore the Climate Crisis & Local Government: Certificate in CPD Microcredential, or Environment, Sustainability & Climate: Certificate or Diploma 

Admissions are open for part-time courses on 'Psychology, Mental Health & Neurodiversity' at ACE, UCC!

Admissions are open for part-time courses in the Food Sector at ACE, UCC! Enhance your leadership skills with the Diploma in Leadership for Agri-Food Sector or explore Irish Food Culture with the Postgraduate Diploma Admissions open here.

Accelerate your career growth with ACE, UCC's part-time courses in Project Management, and Safety, Health, and Welfare at Work. Admissions are open now here. Enroll to enhance your professional development.

Take your education to the next level with our part-time courses at ACE. Trauma-Informed Practice in Education Certificate and Recognition of Prior Learning for Adult and Community Educators Certificate are now open for applications. 

Join our upcoming webinars and take the first step towards a rewarding career. MSc Programme in Mindfulness-Based Wellbeing and MSc Programme in Personal & Management Coaching are now open for applications. 

Applications are open for our part-time 'Community, Diversity & Inclusion' courses! Enroll now in Disability Studies Diploma or Equality, Diversity, & Inclusion Awareness for Health, Social Care, & Education Professionals. To find out more click here.

Discover the past with ACE, UCC's Arts (History) Certificate, explore different cultures with the European Art History Diploma, or trace your family history with the Genealogy Diploma. Enroll now and expand your knowledge! Click here for further details. 

ACE UCC is now open for applications for our September 2023 intake. Join our learning community at ACE 'Educating to Change Lives' For more details click here

Congratulations to all graduates of 2022/2023 who celebrated their achievements at the ACE Spring graduation ceremony on campus last Tuesday March 28th!

Cork Lifelong Learning Festival 2023 takes place 27th March to 2nd April. There will be a series of FREE learning events in UCC with something for everybody to enjoy. See the full listing of events here.

Join us at Cork City Library on Wednesday, 5 March at our drop-in information session for a one-to-one chat with our team members about adult learning opportunities at ACE at UCC. Whether you’re looking to upskill, explore new learning opportunities, or advance your career, come chat to us and plan your next steps with confidence.

Corks popular Lifelong Learning Festival was launched in Council Chambers on Friday 21st of March, with the release of a week long programme of Learning events. This year sees the 20^th Cork Lifelong Learning Festival taking place from Wednesday 2nd April to Wednesday 9th of April 2025 with over 420 individual Lifelong Learning free events taking place throughout Cork city.