Level 5 - Certificate in Agriculture
Entry Requirements:
This course is offered on a full-time basis. Applicants for the full-time programme must be 17 years old or over on 1 January following entry to the course. This course will be of most benefit to anyone who has completed the senior cycle at second level (Leaving Certificate or equivalent).
Course Aims:
This course, accredited by QQI, is the introductory course for young people who wish to make their career as farmers. The course is suitable for people seeking employment on farms.
Graduates of the course are eligible to:
- Progress to a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture course
- Transfer to Year 2 of the Higher Certificate in Agriculture or a BSc in Agriculture at an Institute of Technology
- Transfer to linked courses at Institutes of Technology through the Higher Education Links Scheme
Course Structure and Content:
The course consists of a combination of formal course work and a period of practical learning. The formal course work is split 50:50 (approx) between practical/ skills training and classroom (theoretical) sessions. The course consists of a range of mandatory and elective modules. Students choose a cluster of elective modules in one of the following specialisms: dairy production, drystock production, machinery and crop production.
On-Farm Practical Learning Period:
Students on the full-time programme spend an 8-week practical learning period on an approved training farm which has the enterprise of their specialism.
On successful completion of the course students are awarded the QQI Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture. This course does not meet the training requirement for Stamp Duty Exemption.
Application Process:
Applications are made online through the Teagasc public website.
Progression:
Students with this Level 5 award may progress to the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture.
Progression is also available through the Higher Education Links Scheme. Please contact the relevant higher education institute for further information.