Policing & Security
This course provides students with an introduction to the different sectors of the security industry in Ireland. This Security and Policing Studies course is of particular relevance to students who are interested in a career in An Garda Siochana, the Defence Forces, Prison Service or Emergency Services.
| 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 full-time one-year course which runs from September to May.
Entry Requirements
A Leaving Certificate, Leaving Certificate Applied or equivalent is required, although exceptions are given to mature students who are over 23 years of age. Entry is subject to interview.
Careers / Further progression
Careers and Progression
This course in Private Security and Policing Studies has been designed to meet the needs of the security industry in line with the terms of the Private Security Services Act 2004. This Private Security and Policing Studies course is of particular relevance to students who are interested in a career in An Garda Síochana, the Defence Forces, Prison Services or the Private Security Industry.
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 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.
This course provides students with an introduction to the different sectors of the security industry in Ireland. This Security and Policing Studies course is of particular relevance to students who are interested in a career in An Garda Siochana, the Defence Forces, Prison Service or Emergency Services. This course involves a focus on the academic skills and personal qualities required for a career in the security sector. As part of the work experience module, students complete work placements with recognised security companies.
Work Experience (5N1356)
Safety & Health at Work (5N1794)
Communications (5N0690)
Legal Practice & Procedures (5N1394)
Criminology (5N2107)
Conflict Resolution (5N0692)
Word Processing (5N1358)
Business Law (5N2091)
5M2110 - Security Studies
Award: Successful completion of this course will result in a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Security Services 5M2110.
Contact Us
t: 094 90 23134 / 094 90 75000
e: ballina@mayocollege.ie / admissions@mayocollege.ie