Access for Higher Education
The Certificate in Access for Higher Education serves as a preparatory pathway for individuals aspiring to pursue third-level programmes from Level 7 and beyond.
| Award Name | Minor Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Minor |
| Awarding Body | Atlantic Technological University |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Minor | Atlantic Technological University | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time. 3 Days a week
Entry Requirements
Grade O3 in subjects to include Mathematics and a language other than English in the Leaving Certificate /FETAC Level 5 / Equivalent International Exam.
For applicants whose first language is not English, the minimum English language requirement for entry to the programme is IELTS score 5.00 (no band less than 4.5) / Duolingo English Test 80 / PTE Academic 51+ overall (or equivalent)
Careers / Further progression
Successful completion of the Certificate in Access for Higher Education will show that students’ possess a strong grounding in Mathematics, Academic Learning Skills, and Information & Communications Technology (ICT). Graduates will showcase the cultivation of theoretical and critical thinking skills in core subjects. They will also exhibit self-awareness and an understanding of the implications of personal attributes on career choices.
The programme aids students in effective career decision-making and fosters the ability to devise and implement solutions for well-defined challenges. Graduates of the access programme will apply their knowledge across diverse contexts within all module areas. They will demonstrate accountability for their own tasks and for collaborative efforts within a team. Additionally, students will identify their own and their team's learning needs, taking proactive steps to overcome developmental obstacles. Their ability to convey personal viewpoints will be informed by collaboration and a holistic understanding of multifaceted issues spanning all module domains.
Completion of this access to higher education certificate also creates a pathway to various undergraduate programmes available through IBAT College and ATU.
Further information
Start Date: November 2026
Applicants who do not meet the entry criteria may gain admission to the programme based on mature years (over 23 years of age by 1st January in the intended year of entry).
Non-EU International: €6,500
Including Medical Insurance (€130)
= €6,630 total
A bursary is also available to all international applicants currently living in Ireland.
Local Onshore International: €4,500
Including Medical Insurance (€130)
= €4,630 total
Why Study at IBAT Dublin?
We are Ireland’s leading enterprise-focused third level institution with a special focus on how we guide, support, and mentor our students throughout their college experience and into their working lives.
We know that employers need graduates that can hit the ground running, so we’ve tailored our courses to prepare you to do just that. And if you need an extra hand, our Academic team equipped with years of lecturing and industry experience are ready to support you both in your professional and personal development.
Semester 1
Application of Numbers 10
Learning Skills & Personal Development 10
ICT 5
Academic Writing 5
Semester 2
College Skills & Career Planning 5
Research Fundamentals 5
Business & Law 10
Tourism and Retail Services 10
You can also email directly at: atu.admissions@ibat.ie or call: +353 1 5740 183 and our admissions team will provide you with additional information and guidance on this programme.