Adult Continuing Education

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Adult Continuing Education (ACE) has been offering part-time education programmes to Cork, Munster, and beyond since 1946 and is proud to celebrate over 70 years of educational services to the community.

ACE in Numbers

ACE Was Founded in 1946

Adult Continuing Education is proud to have been providing educational services to the people of Cork and Munster for over 70 years. The first Diploma in Social and Economic Science course was formally opened at a public meeting in University College, Cork on the 14th October, 1946. Over the past several decades, ACE has developed a strong tradition of delivering Community Education programmes as well as Enterprise Engagement programmes to hundreds of students in a wide range of disciplines.

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3,000 Part Time Students Every Year

ACE is the longest established centre for adult and lifelong learning in the Irish university system. ACE provides programmes for 3,000 students every academic year. All of our courses are delivered part-time to allow students to work, study and balance their home lives at the same time. We pride ourselves on offering lifelong learning opportunities for all potential students.

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175 Programmes Offered

ACE provides educational programmes that cover an extensive range of subjects. We offer dedicated support for adult learners and our courses are highly recommended by graduates and employers alike.

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90 Years Old and Graduating!

ACE endeavors in all courses to cater for the particular needs of the adult learner, it's never too late to return to education! Sheila graduated in 2001 with a Diploma in Women's Studies.

Student Profiles

The most enjoyable learning experience I have ever had. I never felt more challenged but I enjoyed that. I cannot understand why I did not do this earlier in my life."

Graduate from DePuy Synthes

Discover more about our Enterprise Engagement Programmes

For over 10 years, I have attended short courses run by ACE at UCC. All courses met my needs in providing intellectual stimulation and meeting like-minded people. I found the courses excellent."

Mary McCarthy, Skibbereen

When I was offered the place on the course I was thrilled, it was the perfect opportunity to learn new skills and make myself more employable. I now run my own business and have so much confidence."

Maeve Aherne O'Neill

Learn More about Springboard+

I found the course very do-able, even though I have a full time job & children...there was loads of time given to complete assignments and the feedback from each of them was clear and easy to follow.

Martha B.

Diploma in Disability Studies Graduate

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