WHAT WILL I STUDY?

Please note the components listed above may vary occasionally

HOW WILL I LEARN? 

You will have a mixture of classroom-based subjects, laboratory practicals, mandatory work placement (including a work shop in Dublin Zoo) and independent study. You will be expected to complete assignments throughout the year. Course work will consist of a combination of onsite & online learning.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

A full Award is granted on passing the relevant eight components. You will be assessed throughout and at the end of the year (Continuous Assessment). On successful completion of each component, you will be awarded a Pass, a Merit or a Distinction grade.

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE FROM YOU!

Applicants with a passion for working with animals, a willingness to work hard and an interest in biology. You will be responsible for securing an appropriate off site work placement.

CAREER/PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES

Students may progress from Level 5 Award to the Advanced Animal Science Level 6 course at Cathal Brugha FET. Students may progress from Level 5 Award to participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme. This Award is a recognised and respected link with Vet Nursing degrees in UCD, DKIT (Dundalk), TUS Athlone, MTU Kerry and ATU Letterkenny. However this is a highly competitive route. Ulster University Vet Nursing recognises our QQI Award. The Award also links with Science & Bioscience degrees in TU Dublin. Animal Science Level 5 is a recognised link with UCD Science/Zoology Degree DN200, Ag. Science DN250 (Animal Science, Equine Science etc.) It also links with Wildlife Biology in MTU Tralee and Freshwater Marine Biology in ATU Galway. On meeting the Entry Requirements for ATU Sligo, through a special link, students are guaranteed places on many of their Level 6/7 science courses. Laboratory apprenticeships are also an option. Click this course code 5M2768 to see progression routes.

This Award is recognised by many UK Colleges for Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour and Veterinary Nursing degrees.

Animal Science can also act as a gateway into the animal industry. Past students are working in animal welfare organisations (Dogs Trust); Dublin Zoo; Tayto Safari Park; as Dog wardens with DCC; as Animal Care Assistants in veterinary clinics, pet stores, kennels, stables etc.

See what our Students say:

As a mature student I was very interested in pursuing a career in Veterinary Nursing. With this in mind, I embarked on completing Animal Science QQI Level 5 with Killester College now Cathal Brugha FET. The level of professionalism, expertise and commitment that I experienced whilst there went above and beyond my greatest expectations. Such excellence, dedication and support received from all my mentors not only developed and enhanced my knowledge and skill net, but resulted in me excelling in all of my subjects and being offered a place to study third level Veterinary Nursing in UCD. I am extremely thankful to all the staff for helping me to achieve my dream.

Stephanie McGuiness 2022-’23

See past Animal Science student Muireann Costigan (TU student) in a video INSPIRATIONAL PLC SUCCESS STORIES

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

A student over 16 years seeking entry to this programme does not need a previous formal qualification. However, the student must demonstrate at interview the capacity to successfully participate on this programme. This includes both the academic and work experience elements of the programme. Should the student have previous qualifications, one of the following may be advantageous for admission to the programme:

• Leaving Certificate/LCA

• QQI Level 4 Award

• Mature applicants welcome

• Students who may not have formal academic requirements but who have the ability to successfully participate on the course will be considered. (RPL Recognition of Prior Learning)

• If English is not your first language you may be asked to complete an English assessment

• Note: Students should note that some of the practical work on this course requires some physical effort and direct contact with animals. Consequently, students with any back problems, respiratory illnesses or allergies or indeed any other injuries or conditions should discuss this matter with the course coordinator at enrolment. You must have proof of a current tetanus vaccination. Applicants should have access to their own pets/animals for elements of this course.

Enquiries: orla.devereux@kmcfe.cdetb.ie

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