Gain Academic Credit while Volunteering
The first-ever fully accredited International Volunteering Diploma
Academic Credit for Volunteering
We’ve created a fully accredited Diploma in International Volunteering. By completing this diploma, you’ll gain UCAS points when you volunteer with us. You’ll select one of three specialist tracks to improve your resume while making an impact!
We’ve partnered with the Centre for Global Citizenship Studies (CGCS), experts and specialists in the international development field. Together, we’ve designed three bespoke, fully accredited level 3 International Volunteering Diplomas, especially for Projects Abroad volunteers.
How does it work?
The Diploma in International Volunteering is an add-on to your project that anyone can do. Once you’ve selected your project, you can add the diploma to do alongside it. Simply pay the sign-up fee and you’ll be enrolled.
This diploma has three specialist tracks, but they all work the same way. Whichever specialisation you choose, your course will be split into five modules. You’ll do three modules before you start your project, one during your project, and the final one after you return home.
You can do each module at your own pace. It’s all online, so you can fit the learning around your schedule. We’ve also made the course interactive so you can engage with other volunteers doing the course.
Your assessments will be reviewed by external examiners, meeting the criteria required by the UK’s Department of Education.
- Delivery: Online
- Cost: €685
- Hours: ~6 hours a week
- Length: 6 weeks–12 months
Which specialisation is right for you?
This Diploma in International Volunteering has three specialist tracks, allowing you to choose an area that most interests you. These are:
- Diploma in International Volunteering (Marine Conservation): Gain an understanding of the marine environment and how to protect it.
- Diploma in International Volunteering (Wildlife Conservation): Explore the interconnectedness of biology and the environment, learning to preserve biodiversity and sustainably manage resources.
- Diploma in International Volunteering (Global Citizenship): Engage with complex social, economic, and environmental issues.
The Global Citizenship pathway is a more general course related to global issues, while the other two diplomas allow you to specialise in conservation.
The Marine Conservation Diploma is ideal for anyone joining one of our Marine Conservation programs. Similarly, our Wildlife Conservation projects would pair perfectly with the Wildlife Conservation Diploma.
If you’re interested in joining any of our other volunteer projects or internships, then we’d recommend you enrol in the Global Citizenship Diploma.
Diploma in International Volunteering (Marine Conservation)
This is designed for anyone who loves the ocean and its inhabitants. You’ll work with local communities to promote sustainable tourism, participate in research projects, and help protect vulnerable marine species.
On completion of the Marine Conservation Diploma, you’ll be well-placed to pursue a career in marine biology, eco-tourism, or sustainable fishing. You’ll also become a well-informed advocate for protecting sea life.
Diploma in International Volunteering (Wildlife Conservation)
If you’re passionate about protecting animals and their habitats, then this diploma is for you. You’ll work with experienced conservationists to participate in research projects and contribute to conservation efforts.
This will give you the skills to pursue a career in wildlife management, eco-tourism, or animal welfare. You’ll also become equipped to join the fight to help secure the survival of crucial species.
Diploma in International Volunteering (Global Citizenship)
This course is designed to help you develop intercultural competency and understand the complexities of global issues. You’ll learn to engage with diverse communities and collaborate with organisations to leave a positive impact. You’ll focus on social, economic, and environmental development.
This will open doors to a wide range of careers, including international development, education, and sustainability. You may end up following in the footsteps of our other graduates by joining NGOs, government agencies, and international organisations.
Why study for a Diploma in International Volunteering?
Volunteering abroad is a fantastic way to build skills and gain experience. By studying for a diploma alongside it, you can gain academic credit to back up your practical work.
Signing up for a Diploma in International Volunteering means:
- Travel: Head abroad, become immersed in a new culture, and return better for it!
- Study: Use your time to study towards a meaningful qualification that will benefit your career.
- Experiential Learning: Understand the impact of volunteering on both a practical and academic level.
- Personal growth: Become a more confident, competent, and well-rounded person – a global citizen.
We offer the world’s only Diploma in International Volunteering. This vocationally-based qualification provides an opportunity to demonstrate your achievements. By joining, you’ll be bound to thrive at university and beyond.
Module outline
In order to gain the Diploma in International Volunteering, you must complete orientation and pass five modules:
- Module 5 – Reflecting on an International Volunteering Placement: After returning home, reflect on what you’ve learned and experienced.
- Orientation Module: A four-hour introduction to the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
- Module 1 – Preparing for an International Volunteering Placement: Discover the culture of the country you’re visiting and learn your responsibilities as a volunteer.
- Module 2 – Reviewing and Reflecting on Your Selection as an International Volunteer: Understand the skills, characteristics, and motivations of a volunteer.
- Module 3 – Special Interest Study: Develop your core knowledge of either Marine Conservation, Wildlife Conservation, or Global Citizenship.
- Module 4 – Undertaking an International Volunteering Placement: Identify and successfully complete volunteer activities during your placement.
How can I transfer my academic credit?
The International Volunteering Diploma is a level 3 diploma, accredited by the National Open College Network (NOCN) in the UK. While the course is based in the UK, all credits are transferable internationally regardless of where you are from and what university or college you attend.
The NOCN Level 3 Diploma in International Volunteering is a 41 credit (TQT) of 410, including 173 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). In the UK, it is the equivalent of 16 UCAS points. In Europe, this qualification would equal 20-21 academic credits. In the US, this qualification would be equal to 10 academic credits. Please check with your institution for confirmation.
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