Physiotherapy Assistant Studies - Health Service Skills
Develop the skills and knowledge to work in the area of sports injuries and their treatment
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | Diploma at UK Level 3 |
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | International Therapy Examination Council |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
| Diploma at UK Level 3 | International Therapy Examination Council |
Duration
38 weeks.
Entry Requirements
Minimum:
- Applicants must be 16+ years of age on entry to the course.
- Leaving Cert, LCVP, LCA or QQI Level 4 Major Award.
- Mature applicant route available for applicants aged 23+.
- Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B2 or Higher).
- Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland.
Additional:
Must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Careers / Further progression
What are the progression opportunities?
If you complete a QQI major award with Kerry College, you may use your results to progress to third level (University, Technological University or Institute of Technology). You may apply under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). A limited number of places are available each year. Some examples include:
B. Bus. (Hons) Sport and Exercise Management at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B. Sc. (Hons) Health and Leisure at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B. Sc. (Hons) Health and Leisure with Massage at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B. Sc. (Hons) Sport Rehabilitation and Athletic Therapy at South East Technological University (SETU)
B. Sc. (Hons) Applied Strength and Conditioning at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)
You should check individual university websites for specific entry criteria for courses.
There is a separate section on the CAO application for applying using your QQI results from Kerry College in the same way you use your Leaving Certificate results.
What are the employment opportunities?
Graduates are eligible to apply to an Irish Hospital or Residential Care setting for a position as a Physiotherapy Assistant. Further opportunities may include Private gyms, Physiotherapy clinics, Leisure centres, Spa facilities and Self-employment.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026.
Apply online via the Kerry College Website - link above.
Your application will be processed using FETCHCOURSES - the National FET Course Application System.
If you haven't signed up for a FETCH account, you'll need to do this first. It's free and a one-time setup.
Why Should I Apply?
This programme is an ideal starting point for learners wishing to pursue a career in the Physiotherapy, Sports or Healthcare Industry. This programme covers a wide range of topics including, Anatomy & Physiology, Physiotherapy Assistant skills, Sports Massage techniques, Exercise, Infection prevention and Care support. The variety of skills attained within the course can be adapted to suit a range of workplace settings.
What is the certification?
QQI Level 5 Major Award Certificate in Health Service Skills (5M3782).
What will I study?
Anatomy and Physiology (5N0749)
Care Support (5N0758)
Communication (5N0690)
Infection Prevention and Control (5N3734)
Physiotherapy Assistant Practice (5N3770)
Physiotherapy Assistant Theory (5N3771)
Safety & Health at work (5N1794)
Work Experience (5N1356)
VTCT (ITEC) Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage / 5 Unit:
- Anatomy & Physiology for Sports Massage
- Principles of Health & Fitness
- Professional Practice in Sports Massage
- Principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction
- Sports Massage Treatment
5M3782 - Health Service Skills.
Clash Road,
Tralee, Co. Kerry
V92 Y991
Tel: (066) 7121 741
e: clashroad@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm