Course Data - Places Available, Cut Off Points and Grant availability.Hotel & Catering ManagementHotel & Catering OperationsSchool of Hotel & Catering computer facilities
Candidates for all courses should note that physical fitness and some work experience in the industry are very important; the latter enables candidates to decide more clearly whether this is the industry for them and, subsequently, to relate much more quickly and readily to subjects presented on the various courses. All courses in both departments include practical work in, amongst others, kitchens and restaurants in order to acquire the necessary skills and disciplines. The industry is one where relatively long hours, split-shift working and being "on the feet" are commonplace. Hence enthusiasm and stamina are essential and, whilst work is very varied and rewarding, candidates should not take lightly a decision to enter this industry.
The Hotel & Catering industry world wide is one of the few industries which, because of its rapid growth, is understaffed. Many opportunities exist, therefore, in Ireland, Europe, North America and further afield.
Each of the courses in the Department of Hotel & Catering Management is designed to satisfy a distinct market need and applicants are strongly advised to consider carefully their personal abilities and aspirations before deciding on their course preferences, so that they may achieve a worthwhile and rewarding career in the international hospitality industry.
The role of a manager in the hotel/catering/tourism business has changed dramatically in the last two decades. Today's manager is a fully-fledged business person responsible for the marketing, staffing, operational and financial aspects of enterprises of varying size and complexity, which form a vital component of the world's fastest-growing industry - tourism. Given the projected growth in Ireland and abroad, the profession needs young graduates with a record of academic achievement, ambition, a positive business attitude, open personality and a high level of commitment, to work in a demanding, dynamic and rewarding industry.
The B.A. in Hotel & Catering Management, the National Diploma in Hotel & Catering Management (Full-time) and the National Certificate in Hotel Accommodation and Languages are suitable for applicants who have taken their Leaving Certificate in the current or preceding year. The National Diploma in Hotel & Catering Management (Block Release) and the National Certificate in Hotel & Catering Management are only available to those who have prior full-time work experience in the hotel and catering industry. These two courses also have an independent application system which incorporates an interview. The National Diploma (Block Release) is for people who want to combine a training position in industry with a rigorous college education, whilst the National Certificate in Hotel & Catering Management is for mature applicants with considerable experience in the industry who wish to progress to a management career.
Applications for advanced entry into the B.A. degree or National Diploma courses in Hotel & Catering Management, from holders of relevant Irish National Diploma and National Certificate courses, or equivalents from abroad, and applications from mature students are particularly welcome.
The Department of Hotel & Catering Operations offers a range of courses designed to give students the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to enable them to find fulfilling and worthwhile employment in an industry which is expanding rapidly, and offering ever more opportunities to ambitious young people. The role of competent, well-trained, motivated and friendly staff in the hotel and catering industry cannot be over-emphasised. This is above all a 'people' industry - especially in Ireland where the quality of the tourism product and the warmth of the welcome are essential parts of what the industry offers to both home and foreign visitors.
The department's courses cover the important operational departments in the industry, from cookery to accommodation services and from food and bar service to reception. Students will also benefit from other valuable inputs such as language and life-skills programmes.
The department works closely with CERT Ltd. - the state training agency for hotels, catering and tourism, which may be contacted at Amiens Street, Dublin 1.
