Nursing Studies
This course will offer students an introduction to the practical and theoretical world of nursing. This course will also benefit anyone wishing to enter the Nursing or Healthcare profession.
| 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:
• Admissions Interview will be required.
• 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.
• Garda vetting is a requirement for this programme and participation is subject to a satisfactory outcome of the Garda vetting process.
Careers / Further progression
What are the employment opportunities?
On successful completion of this course, students are also qualified to work as a healthcare assistant or carer in the public, private or voluntary sector. These jobs may include working in public or private nursing homes, public or private hospitals, day centres, or working as a carer in an individual’s own home.
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). 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. in General Nursing at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. in Mental Health Nursing at University of Limerick (UL)
B.Sc. in Midwifery at University of Galway (NUIG)
B.Sc. in Children’s & General Nursing at University College Cork (UCC)
B.Sc. in Nursing at Stirling University, Scotland
B.Sc. in Nursing at King’s College, London
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.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026.
Applications for all full-time and part-time programmes should be made online - via the Kerry College website. 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?
Anyone considering a career in nursing is encouraged to apply as this course helps to prepare students for the world of nursing, midwifery or a caring career.
This course will provide learners with the skills, knowledge and competence to work under supervision in a variety of healthcare settings.
Graduates may also progress to a variety of nursing related degrees at Universities, Institutes of Technology nationally and in the U.K.
What is the certification?
QQI Level 5 Major Award Certificate in Nursing Studies (5M4349).
What will I study?
Anatomy and Physiology (5N0749)
Care of the Older Person (5N2706)
Care Skills (5N2770)
Communications (5N0690)
Human Growth and Development (5N1279)
Infection Prevention and Control (5N3734)
Maternity Care Support (5N3746)
(Denny Street Campus only)
Nursing Theory and Practice (5N4325)
Work Experience (5N1356)
5M4349 - Nursing Studies
5-8 Denny Street,
Tralee, Co. Kerry
V92 Y751
t: (066) 7122 590
e: dennystreet@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Thu 8:30am-5:00pm, Fri 8:30am-1:00pm