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  • National Framework of Qualifications – NFQ

    National Framework of Qualifications – NFQ

    The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is a ten level system that provides a way to compare qualifications and ensure that they are recognised nationally and abroad. Each of the ten levels are used to describe the Irish qualifications system and each level is based on national standards of skill, knowledge and ability ie. what a person is able to understand and do after completing a process of learning, with the higher numbers indicating a higher level of education.

    The NFQ system places the Leaving Certificate at level 5 and the Leaving Cert Applied at level 4. From the Leaving Certificate, students are able to apply for courses from level 5 to level 8 (level 9 and 10 are Master’s and PHD courses for which a student needs a level 8 qualification). The NFQ allows students to use the system like a ladder; so whatever step you start on, you can move to a higher level and it can be done in a number of ways.

    On entering the system at level 5, Post-Leaving Certificate students may use this qualification to move to higher education, mainly through the Higher Education Links Scheme. This scheme means that students are able to apply for places on CAO courses which includes level 8 courses. Applicants submit an application to the CAO by February 1st but there is no guarantee of a place. However, it does mean that students will have a chance to compete on the basis of their QQI qualification instead of their Leaving Cert results. Presently, over 600 CAO courses accept any QQI level 5 qualification for places. Some courses require the qualification to be in a specific area or that it contains certain subjects.

    So students with a level 5 qualification have two ways in which to apply for a course; through the CAO, where their qualification is given a points score, or by applying for  a ‘linked’ course; where a number of places have been set aside for QQI (formerly FETAC) applicants.

    Students who enter at level 6 in an IT (Institute of Technology) or TU (Technological University) frequently have the option of staying on in that institution to do a level 7 ‘add on year’ followed by a level 8 ‘add on year’. This means that a student can acquire a level 8 qualification in four years. As most level 8 (or honours degree courses) are four years in length, it is likely to take the student the same amount of time to reach level 8 as a student who enters on level 8. In many cases, a student will be required to achieve a certain grade in order to do the level 7 and 8 ‘add on years’.

    Entering the system at level 7 and moving on to level 8 follows the same procedure as level 6 moving to level 7. A lot of the level 7 courses have an optional ’add on’ year to take them to level 8 and students need to enquire with the college or check the CAO handbook. The abbreviation DG in the handbook signifies that it is an Ordinary Degree course while HD signifies that the course has an option to add on a year to make it an Honours Degree. HC+DG+HD means that a course is a Higher Certificate with the option to do an Ordinary Degree and an Honours Degree.

    For more information on the NFQ system check out the website www.nfq.ie or check below for an interactive fan diagram that clearly displays the different levels, award types and the awarding bodies.

    NFQ fan diagram Ireland

     

  • Popular PLC Courses

    Popular PLC Courses

    Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses are further education programmes available to students who have completed their Leaving Certificate as well as adults returning to full-time education. PLCs are offered through a wide variety of both state run and private colleges and many are now available via online or blended learning methods.

    The courses are certified at levels 5 & 6 of the NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications). Students usually complete a 1 year certificate at level 5 and will often have the option of proceeding on to a level 6 certificate. From there student’s will have the skills required to enter the workforce or can use the qualifications earned to proceed on to NFQ levels 7 & 8 at universitiy. Many PLC colleges have links with third level colleges who run courses in similar subject areas and will have allocations available for successful PLC graduates.

    Traditionally PLC courses were viewed as suitable for those hoping to develop technical or vocational skills in order to enter employment. However they have become increasingly popular with students for the wide range of interesting courses which are now on offer from further education colleges. The further education route may suit those who are not yet sure which higher education course to choose and which specific area of study they would like to focus on. PLC courses are also useful for those who may wish to gain some experience in a particular field of study before committing to this fully.

    Grant funding is available for PLC study and courses are usually very affordable. More information about this can be viewed in this PLC Course Funding feature.

    There are plenty of courses to choose from and listed below are some of the most popular categories:

    • PLC courses in childcare are hugely popular and there is a generous selection to choose from, with childcare courses available in locations all over the country. Courses such as Childcare Supervision, Childcare Management, Childcare with Special Needs and Childcare with Montessori are just some of the courses that are offered in colleges such as Tralee Community College, Sallynoggin Community College and Cork College of Commerce. Most courses result in a NFQ level 5 or 6 on successful completion and provide the student with the skills to work in a range of different childcare settings such as crèche, Montessori, nanny or supervisors.
      View Childcare PLC Courses on Findacourse.ie
    • Pre-nursing PLCs are ideal for those wishing to pursue a career in nursing. In these courses, offered in locations such as Cavan Institute, Central College Limerick and Dun Laoghaire Further Institute of Education, students receive an introduction to all aspects of the nursing profession and most result in a QQI level 5 qualification, allowing for the continuation on to further studies. Dental Nursing PLCs are also available in Cavan Institute and Marino College of Further Education.
      View Pre-Nursing PLC Courses on Findacourse.ie
    • Hair and Beauty PLCs are a popular choice for many and there are plenty of courses to choose from, including Introduction to Hairdressing QQI level 5 and Professional Hairdressing level 6; both of which are taught at Dunboyne Community School, Meath. Other courses such as Beauty Therapy in Bray Institute of Further Education and Beauty and Holistic Therapies in Drogheda Institute of Further Education are also on offer. These courses are ideal for those looking for a career in the beauty industry and provide students with an NFQ level 4, 5 or 6 qualification on successful completion.
      View Hair and Beauty PLC Courses on Findacourse.ie
    • Engineering PLCs are ideal for preparing students for further studies in the field of engineering, including jobs such as an electrician, plumber, civil engineering, mechanical engineering and an electronic technician. The courses result in either a NFQ level 5 or 6 qualification and are available in St. Kevin’s College Crumlin, Wexford Vocational College and Listowel Community College to name a few.
      View Engineering PLC Courses on Findacourse.ie
    • PLC courses in computing is another popular choice. Combinations includes Business and Computers, Multimedia and Computers, Accounting and Computer applications and many more. Courses provide either a QQI level 5 or 6 on completion and give students a solid foundation and skills to allow them to continue their education or, in some cases, enter employment. Castlerea Community School, Stillorgan College of Further Education and Sligo College of Further Education are just some of the providers. View Computer PLC courses on Findacourse.ie

     

    With over 1,000 courses available in 229 centres nationwide, there is something to suit everyone when it comes to choosing a further education (PLC) course.

  • Choosing a College

    Choosing a College

    With so much on offer; the list of choices can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Let’s have a look at some things to remember when you are making your decision that will help you decide where to pursue your education.

    Course Choice
    It may sound basic, but the first thing to keep in mind when you are choosing a college is what it is that you actually want to study. Don’t pick a college just because your friends are going; think of the subject that you want to study and the job you would like to have in the future and try to pick a college that offers the best course in that area. There are plenty of colleges that are best for particular fields of study such as IADT in Dublin for art and design, the Colleges of Education such as St. Patrick’s for teaching, Institutes of Technology (and Technological Universities) for business, engineering, science.

    Research
    Studies have shown that those students who did their homework when choosing a college were less likely to drop out in first year, so browse the college websites and go to the various college open days that will be on during the year. Check out the college facilities such as the library and sports facilities as well as what clubs and societies are available to join.

    Students can often fall into the trap of picking a course based on its title while failing to look in detail at the course content, only to find that when they start, the course is not suited to them. Find out the answers to practical questions about the course. What are the hours involved? Will there be Erasmus or work placement involved? Is there a tutor/mentor system in place? It can be a good idea to contact a past student or a course co-ordinator to ask any questions you may have.

    Location
    Take into account the location of the college and the cost of living involved in studying there; will you be able to live at home or will you have to move out? Will you be able to live on campus or will you be looking for accommodation nearby? A college in a big city or near a tourist destination will be mean more expensive accommodation so make sure to go through your budget first and be clear on what you can afford or see if you are entitled to a student grant.

    College Links
    Think of your future job and look at the links various colleges have with businesses and industries that are relevant to your chosen course and career. DCU has a INTRA Internship Programme where students gain paid, relative work experience as part of their degree courses. A recent survey showed that 90% of students who graduated with a degree in DCU the previous year were in employment or further study; a higher rate than the national average. Tralee IT has close links with businesses in the Shannon Developments Kerry Technology Park as well as hosting research centres for global companies.

    University Rankings Ireland
    Below are some of the universities ranked by THE (Times Higher Education) that stand out in terms of location, research and campus commitment to the well-being of students.

    THE (Times Higher Education World University Rankings) compile a wide range of statistics. Equal weight is put on teaching quality, research excellence, and research impact through citations (how often a university’s research is referenced elsewhere).

    Top universities in Ireland 2024 (Times Higher Education Rankings)

    Click each institution to view its full Rankings 2024 results

    Ireland Rank 2024  World University Rank 2024   World University Rank 2023  University City
    1  134  =161 Trinity College Dublin Dublin
    2  201–250  201–250 University College Dublin Belfield
    3  251–300  201–250 RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences Dublin
    =4  301–350  301–350 University of Galway Galway
    =4  301–350  301–350 University College Cork Cork
    =6  401–500  401–500 Dublin City University Dublin
    =6  401–500  601–800 University of Limerick Limerick
    =6  401–500  401–500 Maynooth University Maynooth
    9  1001–1200  1001–1200 Technological University Dublin Dublin

    However, regardless of where a college is ranked in any list, at the end of the day the best college for you will be the one that ticks most of your boxes with regard to everything that you are looking for from your college experience. So why not get researching and improve your chances of college success with a well educated decision!

    View CAO Colleges on Findacourse.ie

  • ITEC Courses and Certification

    ITEC Courses and Certification

    ITEC is one of the world’s leading awarding bodies specialising in the fields of Sport and Fitness, Beauty, Complementary Therapy, Hairdressing and Customer Service. Founded in 1947, with its headquarters in London and offices in Asia and South Africa, ITEC also has representation in Ireland and the U.S. It is partnered with 655 colleges across the world and ITEC’s international specialist examination board provides high quality qualifications that are recognised worldwide.

    In Ireland, ITEC is regulated by OfQual and all ITEC qualifications are in line with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and the National Qualifications Framework Ireland (NQAI). To make sure that the trainings are of high standard, ITEC has an independent panel of experts who review all policies, procedures and processes every three months. There is also a Senior Management team who meet monthly with beauty and hair experts whose expertise and experience helps to continually refine and improve courses. All of this means that a qualification from ITEC is certain to enhance a student’s CV and improve employability.

    There are many ITEC qualifications on offer around the country. To view some courses and information on Findacourse.ie view the following link – ITEC Courses on Findacourse.ie

    So whether you want to learn a new specialist skill or update your CV, there is a range of ITEC qualifications available to suit anyone interested in working in the Health and Fitness and related sectors. With employment opportunities sparse these days, it’s all about making your CV stand out. An ITEC qualification can give you that extra feature that will be sure to catch an employer’s attention. As these qualifications are internationally recognised; completing an ITEC training course could also be the perfect passport for working abroad. Opportunities are plentiful when you are well qualified so be sure to check out an ITEC course near you.

    Resources
    • Fitness Training Courses on Findacourse.ie
    • Beauty Training Courses on Findacourse.ie

    Author
    Fiona McBennett

  • Online Language Courses

    Online Language Courses

    Being proficient in a foreign language can open up a new world of opportunities in the professional world, especially in the field of communications, technology, tourism, and international business.

    Future Skills Needs reports in Ireland in recent years have shown that we have and will have a serious shortage of workers and graduates with a second language or third language. These reports highlight an essential need to improve foreign languages skills to meet workforce and economic demands. Foreign language capability and cultural awareness are essential, especially for exporting companies.

    Learning a Language Online

    Research shows and proves that the most effective way to learn a new language is the way we learned English; we listened and then practised what we heard. Distance learning providers use this same technique, whilst keeping in mind ways that the learner can progress with ease, at their own pace, as an independent distant learner. Using this methodology, distance learning language courses will help you to acquire effective skills in languages for work, travel and for your own enjoyment.

    Resources

    Avanti Language School is a high quality language based in Kildare but offering online language courses. Students’ satisfaction rate is very high and many students go on to further courses with the institute on completion of their first. Courses include;

    • Online Spanish course
    • Online German Course
    • Online Italian Course
    • Online French Course
    • Online Japanese Course

    University of Galway offer an Italian Online Diploma for beginner and intermediate levels. This diploma course is based on a collaborative, communicative approach with students encouraged to participate in virtual class activities. Two on campus sessions per year are also included.

    Kilroy’s College offer online French and Spanish courses for beginners. Their Irish Leaving Certificate course is ideal for anyone needing Honours Irish, e.g. anyone wishing to qualify as a primary teacher.

    The International Career Institute’s language courses are a great starting point and offer introductory lessons in a range of European, Asian and Middle Eastern languages.

    Distance learning language courses provide that necessary language skill foundation from which you can progress further in proficiency – should you wish to do so. Learning a foreign language takes time, perseverance and dedication. Some reasons for learning a new language will be practical, some aspirational, some intellectual and others sentimental, but whatever your reasons, having a clear idea of why you’re learning a language can help to motivate you in your studies, and keep you on track. They say ‘you live a new life for every new language you speak’; a good mantra to keep in mind as you progress through your language course.

    View Online Language Courses on Findacourse.ie

    Find online language courses on Google

  • Basic Computer Courses

    Basic Computer Courses

    Many of us take our computer skills for granted; we surf the internet, send emails, use computer software and use hardware for printing and scanning on a regular basis. However, there are some people that don’t yet have these skills and basic computer courses can be an ideal first step for those in this position.

    Mature Learners

    On a recent popular radio chat show, many older guests admitted to their difficult and often comical relationship with computers. One mother, in her 50s, admitted that her first email involved typing it up, printing it and posting it in an envelope. It even had the ‘To’ and ‘From’ email addresses visibly displayed at the top of the page. Another person described their frustration at the mouse pointer not moving on screen despite their increasingly exaggerated gestures with the mouse to get it going, unfortunately they were holding the mouse in the air instead of on the mouse-pad.

    According to Google and Age Action Ireland, young people should try to get their parents & grandparents using the Internet. It is often the case that older people know how to email but do not use other services the Internet offers such as: online banking, photo sharing or social networking. Email and social networks such as Facebook can be an ideal way for parents to keep in contact with their loved ones who may live in different parts of the country or overseas.

    Absolute Beginners

    If you are an absolute beginner; you are not alone! The good news is that there are many courses to get you started in the world of computers. You will learn everything you need to know. From working that computer mouse to accessing and watching that ‘missed episode’ of Fair City via the RTE Player. Beginner courses should cover basic topics like: how to control your computer once it is on, moving and restoring windows and word-processing (Microsoft Word helps you to create letters and documents). Some beginner courses also cover Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.

    If you are looking for a beginners computer course that is more comprehensive, you might consider learning Microsoft Office with Pitman Training. Microsoft Office is the most widely used software suite in business and office environments. It is essential if you want to keep up to date with the skills demanded by many employers.

    Becoming Computer Literate

    After completing a basic computer course, you will be as comfortable holding a computer mouse as holding a pen. Writing an email will be as normal (and less troublesome) than writing a letter. You will become computer literate. I am afraid to say if you don’t like computers, you might just have to rethink that relationship. This is because computers are now considered a basic tool to daily living.

    It is in your best interests to become computer literate. If you are seeking employment – many employers presume computer literacy is a given. Computer literacy does not mean you need to know how to use every single piece of software you may encounter. It does not mean you need to know how to write programs or network computers. You just need to know some basics. These include how to save and open a file, using a word processor (like Microsoft Word) and how to send and receive email. It means having some sort of level of comfort around computers rather than a look of fear.

    A basic computer course will help you begin your new relationship with computers. Remember, the best way to overcome a fear is to face it!

    Find more computer training and IT courses on Findacourse.ie Basic Computer Courses Listings

  • What is an ETB?

    What is an ETB?

    An ETB (Education and Training Board) is an education authority responsible for education and training, youth work and a range of other issues related to creating a suitably skilled workforce. ETBs manage and operate second-level schools, further education colleges, multi-faith community national schools and a range of adult and further education centres which deliver education and training programmes.

    Functions of an Education and Training Board (as stated under the Education and Training Boards Act 2013):

      • Establish and maintain recognised schools, centres for education and education or training facilities in its functional area,
      • When directed to do so by the Minister:
        1. establish and maintain recognised schools in its functional area
        2. establish and maintain centres for education in its functional area
        3. Maintain centres for education or recognised schools in its functional area, and
        4. Establish, maintain or resource education or training facilities in its functional area
      • Plan, provide, coordinate and review the provision of education and training, including education and training for the purpose of employment, and services ancillary thereto in its functional area in:
        1. Recognised schools or centres for education maintained by it
        2. Recognised schools or centres for education maintained by it
        3. Education or training facilities maintained or resourced by it
        4. Children detention schools
        5. Prisons
        6. Facilities maintained by other public service bodies,
      • Enter into arrangements with, and provide support services to, education or training providers
      • Establish scholarships
      • Adopt a strategy statement
      • Adopt an annual service plan
      • Co-operate with anybody nominated to carry out internal audit functions
      • Provide education and training at the request of, and on behalf of, anybody which funds training out of money provided to that body by the Oireachtas
      • Support the provision, coordination, administration and assessment of youth work services in its functional area and provide such information as may be requested by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in relation to such support
      • Assess whether the manner in which it performs its functions is economical, efficient and effective.

    ETBs are active in local communities through the direct provision of training and education programmes delivered in training centres, colleges and other training and educational settings.

    The sixteen ETBs are:

    • City of Dublin ETB
    • Donegal ETB
    • Kerry ETB
    • Cork ETB
    • Galway and Roscommon ETB
    • Limerick and Clare ETB
    • Cavan and Monaghan ETB
    • Dublin and Dun Laoghaire ETB
    • Kildare and Wicklow ETB
    • Kilkenny and Carlow ETB
    • Laois and Offaly ETB
    • Longford and Westmeath ETB
    • Louth and Meath ETB

    For more information about your local ETB view the following link – https://www.etbi.ie/etbs/directory-of-etbs/

  • CPD Courses

    CPD Courses

    CPD or, Continuous Professional Development, refers to lifelong learning or continuing education. It is the means by which people advance their skills and knowledge related to their professions. In today’s competitive and rapidly changing world, taking part in a CPD course can be essential to ensure continued employment and career advancement.

    Most professions have CPD obligations and as a result, there is large a variety of courses available around the country covering all career fields, from engineering to teaching.

    The following are just some of the CPD course providers on Findacourse.ie that can help to enhance a CV and improve career progression options:

    • Dorset College offers professional skills courses such as the CIPD Certificate in Human Resource Practice and the Cisco Certified Network Associate course (CCNA).
    • Portobello Institute offers a range of courses aimed at those interested in career progression or changing direction. Fields of Study include Facilities Management, Sports and Fitness, Beauty Training, Childcare, Management and more.
    • The Institute of Public Administration in Dublin offers courses in areas such as business and management. Management courses include the Prince2 Practitioner course with business options including audit skills and book-keeping and accounting courses.
    • Pitman Training offer a wide range of courses in the areas of IT, business and accounting, management and professional development. Courses can be completed on a flexible learning basis. Pitman has centres throughout Ireland in 15 different locations.
    • IPASS (Irish Payroll Association) is Ireland’s leading training provider for those seeking to up-skill or re-skill in the areas of payroll, VAT and taxation. The association offers training courses in many locations around Ireland.
    • Communications and Management Institute is a leading provider of part-time Diploma courses in Dublin. Many of these will be useful for career and professional development, including project management, event management, marketing & pr, sales & advertising & more..
    • Griffin College provides training programmes in Sales and Marketing, Built Environment, IT, Management and Leadership, and Business and Enterprise.
      A range of management consultancy services are also provided.. Locations are Cork City, Dublin city centre, Galway city, Kilkenny, Limerick City, Belfast City and Derry.

    These are just some of the options on offer for CPD courses. For more information on job training and professional development, view the CPD and Job Skills Course Listings page on Findacourse.ie

    or more information on CPD Courses view www.cpdcourses.ie

  • COMPTIA Certification

    COMPTIA Certification

    The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) was established in 1982 in order to advance and develop the growth of the information technology (IT) industry, and those working within it. Today it is the leading global IT trade association and has influence in all areas of the IT industry worldwide. CompTIA facilitates the growth of the IT industry by promoting industry standards, growing professional IT expertise, providing IT skills education, and developing relevant business solutions.

    Through the years CompTIA has developed specialized initiatives and programs dedicated to major areas within the industry as those areas, themselves, were developing. This association follows and predicts trends and technological advances within the IT industry. CompTIA is able to create interest in and understanding of categories like: convergence technology, e-commerce, IT training, software services, certification, public policy, workforce development, and technology learning.

    CompTIA has created and developed certified exams. It is the world’s largest developer of vendor-neutral IT certification exams. CompTIA employs the assistance of experts and industry leaders from both public and private sectors (such as training, academia, government, etc.) to develop broad-based, foundational exams, that accurately assess an individual’s IT skill set.

    An example of one of these certified exams is the CompTIA Network+ certification. Network+ (Network Plus) is a mid-level certification for network technicians. This certification is designed to test the competency of a mid-level network technician in supporting and configuring TCP/IP clients in terms of network design, cabling, hardware setup, configuration, installation, support, and troubleshooting.

    CompTIA also sponsors certification for document imaging (Certified Document Imaging Architech [CDIA]) and a hardware certification exam (A+). The CompTIA certifications are usually more basic and less product-specific than other certifications, such as Microsoft’s MCSE or a Novell CNE.

    Kilroys College run the Network+ – IT Skills Preparation course for the CompTIA A+ certification. This is a Distance Learning course. If you are interested in becoming a Network administrator or PC Support Specialist, then this CompTIA sponsored Network+ course could be for you. It will help you prepare for the Network+ exam, which will give any prospective employer proof that you possess the required technical knowledge and skills to support a network. It also gives you the perfect foundation to build on towards other IT qualifications.

    The College of Management and IT (CMIT) offer a comprehensive e-learning course to prepare students for the A+ Certification from CompTIA. The CompTIA A+ certification is the industry standard for computer support technicians and it proves competence in areas such as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security and troubleshooting. CompTIA A+ certified technicians also have excellent customer service and communication skills to work with clients. This course is suitable for IT Technician, Enterprise Technician, PC Technician, Desktop Support Technician, Field Technician, PC Support Specialists or People considering a career as a PC Technician. It is also ideal for A+ certified professionals who are encouraged or required by their employers to remain current on their certifications. Once you successfully complete the programme, you will receive a Diploma in Advanced PC Maintenance from CMIT and following successful completion of the exams you will receive CompTIA certification.

    Dorset College run a number of IT courses including their full-time course:  Computer Systems Engineer (CompTIA A+ & CISCO) and part-time courses in CompTIA A+ / IT Essentials and CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI.

    CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI validates the fundamental knowledge and skills required of junior Linux administrators. The aim of the Linux+ course is to demonstrate a wide range of skills required in today’s complex IT environments.

    It is recommended that participants have CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+ and at least 12 months of Linux administration experience. Professionals holding the CompTIA Linux+ credential can explain fundamental management of Linux systems from the command line, demonstrate knowledge of user administration, understand file permissions, software configurations and management of Linux-based clients, server systems and security. Because of the growing popularity of enterprise-ready platforms such as Linux, both employers and professionals realise the importance of skill validation. The industry recognises that a CompTIA Linux+ certification is a good indicator of foundational proficiency in everyday management of Linux-based clients and basic management of server systems.

    In order to participate and complete any of the above courses, (depending on the course provider and type of course) you must have good working knowledge of ECDL or equivalent, and/or relevant work experience. Some advanced courses will require completion of other CompTIA courses before progression is allowed. Contact the relevant college to establish their individual requirements.

    CompTIA Certification is the starting point for a career in IT. There are excellent progression routes taking IT certifications from basic skills to advanced technical specialties in order to build a successful career in IT. Their certified exams are proof of your professional achievement, providing you with a solid credential leading to better job opportunities and a well-defined career path. This will give you an advantage over other candidates when applying for a job. There are also specific areas such as networking, security, software technology, or hardware support that you can specialise in.

    IT is one of the few growing industries today that consistently experience difficulties in recruiting enough graduates and workers to fill vacancies. Demand for skilled Network Support professionals has grown significantly over the past few years. Leading technology companies such as IBM, Microsoft and Intel have identified Network+ as the perfect entry point into a networking career.

    Find Comptia Computer Courses on Findacourse.ie

  • PLC Courses as a Route to Third Level

    PLC Courses as a Route to Third Level

    The further education system opens up some valuable options for those leaving secondary education or those wishing to return to education. Further education also known as PLC  (Post Leaving Cert) can be an alternative stepping stone into Higher Education Institutes. At the end of your studies it won’t really matter the method of entry, but the qualifications and experience gained. Many graduates will have the option of going directly into the workforce or progressing onto higher education on completion of PLC courses.

    Who is the PLC route for?

    Many argue it is for those who are more practical than academic. This may sometimes be the case. However with the variety of further education courses on offer, academically and creatively endowed candidates are well catered for also. Many entrants into the PLC sector of education will also have had the offer of CAO courses. However some PLC students may not want to commit to a 3 or 4 year course in a third level institution. They may prefer to experience a similar Level 5 or 6 certificate course to see if it suits. PLC courses can assist students in making a more informed decision prior to further commitment. There are also some further education courses that may be a better fit for what some students are looking for than those offered in higher education.

    There are PLC courses that prepare you for specific further study as well. Courses such as Nursing Studies, Art-portfolio preparation and Pre-Engineering courses are some of these examples. Some students might also attend a PLC college in order to have a second opportunity to score higher points than they got in their leaving cert.

    Whatever the reason for doing a PLC course, you will find over 1400 further education centres registered with QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland – Formerly FETAC).

    The distinctive feature of further education is its diversity and breadth of provision. Also its linkages with other services such as employment, training, area partnership, welfare and community and voluntary sectors. Further education and training programmes often have a vocational or work focus and reflect national, regional or sectoral economic needs. An element of work experience and job preparation is inbuilt into all programmes, which are essential components for students who wish to enter the employment market. PLC courses are not just aimed at the student leaving school but also at adults returning to education.

    Progression

    Most PLC/FE courses lead to QQI Level 5 and 6 awards. In some cases you can progress with this award. This is done via The Higher Education Links Scheme or The Pilot Scheme which allow progression to a third level course in a variety of higher education institutions. These include universities, institutes of technology, technological universities and even private colleges. The Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS) facilitates progression to specific third level programmes whilst the Pilot Scheme allows you to compete for CAO places alongside leaving certificate students. Most Higher Level Institutes now reserve a quota of places for QQI graduates. If you look at the National Framework of Qualifications you can place yourself according to your level of education on the framework (. From your starting point you can go from one level to the next should you wish to do so. One level becomes a ladder to the next.

    The National Framework of Qualifications is now the single structure mechanism for recognising all education and training in Ireland. All framework awards have an NFQ Level (1-10). This tells you about the standard and level of learning. The NFQ Award-Type tells you about the purpose, volume and progression opportunities associated with a particular award. A key element of the NFQ is to improve access (entry) to education and training. The aim is to allow ease of transfer within and between education and training and progression opportunities to higher levels. (see www.nfq.ie for further information)

    NFQ fan diagram Ireland
    NFQ Diagram – Fan diagram showing the 10 certification levels and overlaps within the National Framework of Qualifications. See www.nfq.ie for more details.

    In order to progress with your QQI award, applicants must have obtained a full QQI major award. Many students who complete a level 6 programme have advanced on to year 2 of a relevant higher education course. Some FE colleges even have individual progression agreements with a third level college. This allows students access to a specific number of reserved places in that college. Links with the UK have developed over the years between individual colleges and specific universities in the UK.

    Further education courses are open to those with a Leaving Certificate or an equivalent qualification. It is recommended that students check individual course entry requirements. FE courses are also open to mature students subject to Leaving Certificate standard of education or suitable life/work experience. It is important to keep in mind that some of the most popular courses fill up by April each year. Most courses also require that you attend for an interview.

    It is worth mentioning that there has been a decrease in the numbers of mature students applying to third level. There has also been an increase in those accessing further education at QQI Levels 5 and 6. Guidance Counsellors have also noted the increase in students making both PLC/FE and CAO applications each year (a good idea for anyone looking to increase their options after the Leaving Cert).

    To see more details on PLC courses and further education courses on offer throughout the country, check out PLC and further education courses on Findacourse.ie