Nursing Studies - Introduction
The course includes a variety of classroom-based subjects, clinical practical skills, mandatory work placement and independent study. Assessments and assignments are continuous throughout the year. Academic learning consists of a combination of onsite and self-directed learning.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
A student over 16 years seeking entry to this programme does not need a previous formal qualification. Should the student have previous qualifications, one of the following may be advantageous for admission to the programme:
- Leaving Certificate
- Leaving Certificate Applied
- QQI Level 4 Award
- Interview
- Students who may not have formal academic requirements but who can successfully participate on the course will be considered. (RPL Recognition of Prior Learning
- Mature students welcome
Careers / Further progression
Careers/Progression
Students can progress to Undergraduate Nursing Degree programmes in Higher Education Institutes in Ireland and the UK. Alternatively, students may seek employment as qualified carers in the public or private health care sector.
Use this course code 5M4349 to see degrees that link with this course. in Careers Portal website - https://careersportal.ie/courses/cao_fetac_links.php
Nursing degrees in Ulster University are fully funded and accept QQI qualifications.
Many, who have continued from this course have completed Nursing Degree Programmes in Ireland and the UK are now practising in areas such as General Nursing, Midwifery, Paediatric Nursing, Mental Health, and other specialist areas. Other successful graduates are working as carers in hospitals, care homes and private homecare, enhancing the lives of all of those they assist.
Further information
Start Date: September 2026.
Registration Fee: €100 / Course Materials: €50.
Student Grants
Eligible students can apply for a SUSI Grant to assist with course costs. Please contact SUSI.ie for further information.
View https://www.cathalbrughafet.ie/general-information for other grants and supports.
Apply online. Please see "Application Weblink" above.
How Will I Learn?
The course includes a variety of classroom-based subjects, clinical practical skills, mandatory work placement and independent study. Assessments and assignments are continuous throughout the year. Academic learning consists of a combination of onsite and self-directed learning.
What We Would Like From You!
If your answer to any of these questions is “Yes” then this course is tailor made for you.
• You want to enhance your chances of getting into a Nursing Degree programme either in Ireland or the UK.
• You want to see if nursing is really the career for you.
• You plan to work as a carer to gain healthcare experience before entering a full degree programme. (This course is designed to prepare students for entry to a Nursing Degree Programme while successful candidates will emerge with a qualification that entitles them to work as a professional carer. You have qualified Nurses teaching you and will gain a true insight into the incredibly varied world of Nursing.
Certification: QQI Level 5 Certification Nursing Studies Award 5M4349.
Anatomy and Physiology
Human Growth and Development
Nursing Theory and Practice
Care Skills
Care of the Older Person
Infection Prevention and Control
Communications
Maternity Care and Support; Emergency Care Skills and Child Health and Well being. (Students pick one of these modules to study).
Work Experience
Please note the components listed above may vary occasionally.
All Nursing modules will be delivered by our team of qualified Nurses & Midwives. All students will partake in a work experience programme. Students will be assisted and supported in securing placement under the guidance of our Clinical Placement Coordinator.
Courses for Certification and Work Experience that are covered:
• Patient Manual Handling
• Cardiac First Responder
• Safeguarding the Vulnerable Adult
• Hand Hygiene
A full award is granted on passing the relevant eight components. On successful completion of each component, one can be awarded a pass, merit or distinction grade. These grades are achieved by the accumulation of marks awarded for assessments and assignments. Students are assessed through various methods based on the module studied. It may be a combination of assignments, clinical skills, projects and an end of year exam and is module dependent.
5M4349 - Nursing Studies.
North Strand Campus
171 North Strand Road, Dublin 1, D01 Y160
T: 01 855 7116
F: 01 855 4064
Enquiries: sarah.mccabe@kmcfe.cdetb.ie / catherine.maccauley@kmcfe.cdetb.ie