Applied Science - Laboratory Techniques
This programme provides an introduction to the world of science and covers a variety of subjects related to laboratory sciences.
| 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
What are the entry requirements?
Minimum:
• 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.
Careers / Further progression
What are the employment opportunities?
This course prepares learners for work in the following Career Sectors: Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science, Physical, Mathematical & Space Science, Biomedical, Food and Beverages, Hospital Laboratories, Industrial Laboratories, Local Authorities. Students may also gain employment in many other types of companies such as business or journalism, requiring an aptitude for science.
What are the progression opportunities?
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). There are progression options in a wide range of areas including General Science, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Science, Animal Bioscience, Food Science, Nutrition and Health Science, Agricultural Science, Physical Science and many other related areas. Students may also progress onto a number of apprenticeships for example Laboratory Technician or Laboratory Analyst that are now available in Ireland. You may apply under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). A limited number of places are available each year. Some examples include:
B.Sc. (Hons) Wildlife Biology at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. (Hons) Nutrition and Health Science at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. (Hons) Science with Teacher Ed (Biology with Physics/Chemistry/Ag. Science) at University of Limerick (UL)
B.Eng. (Hons) Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at University of Limerick (UL)
B.Sc. (Hons) Optometry at TU Dublin
B.Sc. in Microbiology at University College Cork (UCC)
B.Sc. in Biochemistry at University College Cork (UCC)
B.Sc. (Ord) Applied Biology at Technological University of Shannon (TUS)
B.Sc. (Hons) Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of Shannon (TUS)
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.
Further information
Start date: 07/09/2026.
Applications for all full-time programmes should be made online via the Kerry College. Your application will be processed using our FETCHCOURSES 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?
This practical laboratory skills course covers a variety of subjects related to laboratory and physical sciences. The purpose of the award is to enable the student to acquire the knowledge, skill and competence to work independently and under supervision in a science laboratory or to progress to science-based programmes at third level.
Throughout the year on this course, learners will have the opportunity to meet scientists, researchers, and postgraduate students in a vast array of scientific fields. This generally takes the format of guest speakers, workshops, and field trips.
Work Experience is a mandatory part of the course. The work placement is usually for a period of 10 days or a minimum of 60 hours. Learners find the work experience element of the course to be invaluable and often a successful work placement can lead to further opportunities.
What is the certification?
QQI Level 5 Major Award Certificate in Laboratory Techniques (5M3807).
What will I study?
• Biology (5N2746)
• Chemistry (5N2747)
• Communications (5N0690)
• Laboratory Skills (5N2751)
• Maths (5N1833)
• Nutrition (5N2006)
• Physics (5N1460)
• Work Experience (Community) (5N1356)
5M3807 - Laboratory Techniques.
Kerry College - Listowel Campus
Unit 1, Listowel Business Development Centre,
Listowel Business Park,
Clieveragh,
Listowel
Co. Kerry.
V31PC79
t: (068) 22655
e: listowel@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm