Animal Science - Laboratory Techniques
The QQI Level 5 Animal Science programme aims to provide learners with a strong foundation in the core scientific disciplines relevant to the study of animals.
| 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
38 weeks.
Entry Requirements
Minimum Entry Requirements
• Applicants must be 16+ years of age on entry to the course.
• Leaving Cert, LCVP, LCA or QQI Level 4 Major Award.
• Mature applicant route available for applicants aged 23+.
• Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B2 or Higher).
• Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland.
Additional
• Must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
• Applicants must have no animal related allergies.
• Must have a demonstrable interest in working with animals and be willing to work in outdoor environments.
• Experience working or volunteering with animals is an advantage but not essential.
Careers / Further progression
What are the progression opportunities?
This course equips students with a solid foundation in animal science, biology and maths to progress to third level. Possible progression routes include veterinary nursing, veterinary bioscience, agricultural science, wildlife biology, equine science and biological sciences.
If you complete a QQI major award with Kerry College, you may use your results to progress to third level (University, Technological University or Institute of Technology). You should check individual university websites for specific entry criteria for courses.
There is a separate section on the CAO application for applying using your QQI results from Kerry College in the same way you use your Leaving Certificate results. You may also apply under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). A limited number of places are available each year.
Graduates may progress to the Institute of Technology in Tralee through CAO to pursue Biological and Environmental Studies, Agricultural Science or study Wildlife Biology or a BSc in Veterinary Bio science. Graduates may also progress to UCD to study Agricultural Science.
See the following links for further information.
CAO Information for FET Students
Look-up CAO Requirements
Qualifax – Further Education
About the Higher Education Links Scheme
Search Higher Education Links courses – Careers Portal
What are the employment opportunities?
This course prepares learners for careers in the following sectors related to Animal Science:
Veterinary and Animal Health
Agricultural and Livestock Management
Wildlife Conservation and Ecology
Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology
Animal Biotechnology and Genetics
Zoological and Aquatic Sciences
Research Laboratories (academic, industrial, and governmental)
Regulatory and Environmental Agencies
Graduates may also find opportunities in diverse fields such as education, science communication, policy development, or business sectors that value scientific literacy and analytical skills.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026.
Apply online via the Kerry College Website - link above.
Your application will be processed using FETCHCOURSES - the National FET Course Application System.
If you haven't signed up for a FETCH account, you'll need to do this first. It's free and a one-time setup.
Why should I apply?
The QQI Level 5 Animal Science programme aims to provide learners with a strong foundation in the core scientific disciplines relevant to the study of animals. The course integrates practical and theoretical knowledge in areas including biology, chemistry, physics, animal anatomy and physiology and laboratory skills through integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in laboratory and industry applications. The programme prepares learners for progression into further education in animal science, veterinary science, agricultural science or related programmes. It emphasises developing skills to understand animal health and welfare.
What is the certification?
QQI Level 5 Major Award Certificate in Laboratory Techniques (5M3807).
What will I study?
Animal Anatomy And Physiology (5N0750)
Biology (5N2746)
Chemistry (5N2747)
Communications Level 5 (5N0690)
Laboratory Skills (5N2751)
Mathematics (5N1833)
Physics (5N1460)
Work Experience (5N1356)
5M3807 - Laboratory Techniques
Clash Road,
Tralee, Co. Kerry
V92 Y991
Tel: (066) 7121 741
e: clashroad@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm