Applied Ecology
The aim of this programme is to enable the learner to acquire the knowledge, skill and competence to independently and under supervision analyse, quantify and report on the physical and biological diversity of an eco-system and or to progress to further or higher education or training.
| 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
This is a one year, full time course running from September to May.
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate, Leaving Certificate Applied or equivalent For mature students these requirements need not apply and applications will be considered based on a proven interest in organic farming. Entry will be subject to interview.
Careers / Further progression
Progression
There are wide range of progression opportunities available for FET graduates via the CAO website. Please view the entry requirements for all Higher Education colleges here: https://www.cao.ie/index.php?page=scoring&s=fetac
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this programme learners will have the skills, knowledge and competencies to independently and under supervision analyse, quantify and report on the physical and biological diversity of an eco-system and or to progress to further or higher education or training.
Employability Statement
The successful completion of the QQI Major Level 5 Award in Applied Ecology will enable applicants to source employment at entry level in a laboratory and work independently and / or under supervision analysing, quantifying and reporting on the physical and biological diversity of an eco-system in the workplace.
Further information
Course commences 7th September 2026
Mayo College of Further Education & Training is offering no tuition fees for September 2026, which covers exam fees, student consumables, and journals. This includes courses across campuses in Ballina, Castlebar, and Westport, aimed at relieving the cost of living crisis. Some specific courses or materials might still have costs, but tuition is free.
Mayo College students are eligible to apply for a SUSI grant. SUSI is Ireland’s national awarding authority for further and higher education grants. They offer support to eligible students in approved, full-time courses at PLC. Please visit http://www.susi.ie/for more information and to make an application.
Work Experience (5N1356)
Communications (5N0690)
Biology (5N2746)
Biological Diversity (5N1568)
Sustainable Water Management (5N5027)
Environmental Studies (5N1442)
Permaculture Design (5N1617)
Ecological Field Methods (5N1439)
5M5028 - Applied Ecology
Award: Successful completion of this course will result in a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Applied Ecology 5M5028
Westport Campus Newport Road,
Westport,
Co. Mayo,
F28TP82
Tel: 094 90 75000
Email: westport@mayocollege.ie