Animal Care
This course is designed for those who wish to pursue a career working with animals. The course covers a range of subjects which will encourage the student to develop the knowledge and skills to competently handle a range of small animals in a work environment.
| 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
A Leaving Certificate or equivalent is required, although exceptions are given to mature students who are over 23 years of age. Acceptance to the course is also based on an interview which takes place a few weeks after applications have been submitted.
Careers / Further progression
Careers and Further Progression
There are a range of opportunities in the areas of Veterinary Clinics, Catteries, Dog Kennels, Animal Sanctuaries, Self-Employment, Dog Grooming, Education and work in Petshops.
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
Further information
Course commences 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.
Animal Anatomy and Physiology 5N0750
Animal Welfare 5N0753
Communications 5N0690
Work Experience 5N1356
Animal Behaviour 5N0751
Small Animal Husbandry and Housing 5N1898
Veterinary Assisting Skills 5N1363
Biology5 N2746
Word Processing 5N1358
Maths 5N1833
5M2768 - Animal Care
Westport Campus Newport Road,
Westport,
Co. Mayo,
F28TP82
Tel: 094 90 75000
Email: westport@mayocollege.ie