Animal Science
The aim of this programme is to enable the learner acquire the knowledge, skill and competence to work independently and or in a management or supervisory role within animal related industries and or to transfer or progress to programmes leading to Higher Education and Training Awards.
| Award Name | Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
This is a one year, full time course running from September to May.
Entry Requirements
- Level 5 QQI Award Animal Care or equivalent.
- Mature Applicants with relevant experience are welcome.
- Entry onto this course is subject to interview.
Careers / Further progression
Course Progression
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
Career Options
Graduates may seek employment in:
Veterinary Surgeries
Grooming Parlours
Pet Shops, Kennels
Catteries
Animal Welfare Establishments
Farms including Pet Farms
Zoos
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.
Animal Science & Health 6N5565
Communications 6N1950
Large Animal Husbandry 6N5567
Humans, Animals and Society 6N5569
Animal Grooming 6N6226
Work Experience 6N1946
Grooming Science 6N6227
Canine Obedience and Training 6N6228
Additional Activities:
Students on this course will partake in a number of field trips and activities. Examples are listed below.
Dublin Zoo
Falconry Visit
Visits to National Parks
Dog Grooming Events
Charity Events
6M5153 - Animal Science.
Award: Successful completion of this course will result in a QQI Animal Science Level 6 Certificate, 6M5153
Westport Campus Newport Road,
Westport,
Co. Mayo,
F28TP82
Tel: 094 90 75000
Email: westport@mayocollege.ie