Occupational Therapy Assistant
This course is designed to develop and enhance knowledge and skills in occupational therapy. Students also complete additional qualifications in People Handling and First Aid in preparation to work in a healthcare setting.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | First Aid Response |
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | PreHospital Emergency Care Council |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
| First Aid Response | PreHospital Emergency Care Council |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Course Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or equivalent is the standard entry requirement for all Level 5 courses. Leaving Certificate Applied or QQI Level 4 Award are also acceptable on the majority of Level 5 courses. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements (e.g. mature learners etc.) for particular courses may be interviewed.
A QQI Level 5 award or equivalent in a relevant subject area is the standard entry requirement for Level 6 Advanced Certificate courses.
Non-Standard Applicants
Non-Standard Applicants may be required to complete an interview and/or other form of assessment to successfully complete their registration on their chosen programme.
English Language
All courses are delivered through English. In addition to the listed entry requirements, applicants whose first language is not English are required to complete and provide evidence of English language proficiency. Where prospective learners first language is not English, the standard minimum entry requirements for all courses is proficiency at B2 on The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
School Leavers
Whether you have attended school in Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK or further afield, we have a programme to suit your needs. We have a wide range of suitable programmes with internationally recognised certification that will enhance both your career and further education possibilities.
International Students
DIFE welcomes applications from eligible international students. Help and advice is available for international students at every step of the application process and continues after enrolment onto your chosen programme.
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Graduates may progress to employment as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in a variety of therapy/care settings.. Graduates from this course may gain entry to a range of specialist related degree programmes in Universities and Technological Universities.
Level 7 and 8 Courses to which this course is linked:
Employment with HSE - Occupational Therapy Assistant.
University of Ulster - Occupational Therapy (Specific requirements).
Glasgow Caledonian University - Occupational Therapy.
Coventry University - Occupational Therapy.
DCU - Health and Society
DKIT - Health and Physical Activity
NUIG and TCD - Occupational Therapy (mature students only).
Entry to a range of other courses in Institutes of Technology.
This is not an exhaustive list. Applicants are advised at all times to confirm linked Awards, any additional module requirements, application processes and scoring systems with the Admissions Offices of the participating higher education institutions, or visit www.cao.ie.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
Occupational Therapy Assistants provide support to those who struggle with day-to-day activities to live a full and independent life.
This course is designed to develop and enhance knowledge and skills in occupational therapy. Students also complete additional qualifications in People Handling and First Aid in preparation to work in a healthcare setting.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Practice
Occupational Therapy Assistant Theory
Care Support
Infection Prevention and Control
Communications
Human Growth and Development
Anatomy and Physiology
Work Experience
Mathematics
Word Processing
5M3782 - Health Service Skills.
Award: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Health Service Skills - 5M3782.
Additional Qualifications:
Safeguarding of Vulnerable Persons Awareness Programme
People Handling
Infection Prevention & Control
First Aid Responder (PHECC)
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie