Animal Science
Applicants with a passion for working with animals, a willingness to work hard and an interest in biology. You will be responsible for securing an appropriate off site work placement.
| 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. However, the student must demonstrate the capacity to successfully participate on this programme. This includes both the academic and work experience elements of the programme. Should the student have previous qualifications, one of the following may be advantageous for admission to the programme:
• Leaving Certificate/LCA
• QQI Level 4 Award
• Mature applicants welcome
• Students who may not have formal academic requirements but who have the ability to successfully participate on the course will be considered. (RPL Recognition of Prior Learning)
• If English is not your first language you may be asked to complete an English assessment
Note: Students should note that some of the practical work on this course requires some physical effort and direct contact with animals. Consequently, students with any back problems, respiratory illnesses or allergies or indeed any other injuries or conditions should discuss this matter with the course coordinator at enrolment. You must have proof of a current tetanus vaccination. Applicants should have access to their own pets/animals for elements of this course.
Careers / Further progression
Careers/Progression
Students may progress from Level 5 Award to the Advanced Animal Science Level 6 course at Cathal Brugha FET. Students may progress from Level 5 Award to participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme. This Award is a recognised and respected link with Vet Nursing degrees in UCD, DKIT (Dundalk), TUS Athlone, MTU Kerry and ATU Letterkenny. However this is a highly competitive route. Ulster University Vet Nursing recognises our QQI Award. The Award also links with Science & Bioscience degrees in TU Dublin. Animal Science Level 5 is a recognised link with UCD Science/Zoology Degree DN200, Ag. Science DN250 (Animal Science, Equine Science etc.) It also links with Wildlife Biology in MTU Tralee and Freshwater Marine Biology in ATU Galway. On meeting the Entry Requirements for ATU Sligo, through a special link, students are guaranteed places on many of their Level 6/7 science courses. Laboratory apprenticeships are also an option.
This Award is recognised by many UK Colleges for Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour and Veterinary Nursing degrees.
Animal Science can also act as a gateway into the animal industry. Past students are working in animal welfare organisations (Dogs Trust); DSPCA; Dublin Zoo; Emerald Park; as Dog wardens with DCC; as Animal Care Assistants in veterinary clinics, pet stores, kennels, stables etc.
Further information
Start Date: September 2026.
Registration Fee: €100.
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.
Animal Science Level 5 (Cathal Brugha / North Strand Campus).
How Will I Learn?
You will have a mixture of classroom-based subjects, laboratory practicals, mandatory work placement (including a work shop in Dublin Zoo) and independent study. You will be expected to complete assignments throughout the year. Course work will consist of a combination of onsite & online learning.
Certification:
QQI Level 5 Award in Animal Science 5M2768
Certificate in First Aid Pet Training from Protrainings UK
Animal Anatomy & Physiology
Biology-optional (necessary for CAO progression in some cases)
Word Processing
Animal Grooming
Communications
Animal Welfare
Veterinary Assisting Skills
Maths - optional (necessary only for CAO progression to some Vet Nursing and Zoology degrees)
Work Experience
Safety & Health at Work
Please note the components listed above may vary occasionally.
A full Award is granted on passing the relevant eight components. You will be assessed throughout and at the end of the year (Continuous Assessment). On successful completion of each component, you will be awarded a Pass, a Merit or a Distinction grade.
5M2768 - Animal Care
Cathal Brugha FET Campus
76 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 X8V0
T: 01 533 7126
E: info@kmcfe.cdetb.ie
Enquiries: orla.devereux@kmcfe.cdetb.ie
North Strand Campus
171 North Strand Road, Dublin 1, D01 Y160
T: 01 855 7116
F: 01 855 4064