Pre-Apprenticeship Engineering Technology
The aim of this course is to provide learners with an understanding of the field of Engineering. Students will gain practical skills to pursue a career in the Engineering industry and have an introduction to theory necessary for entry into Third Level education.
| 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
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Course Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or equivalent is the standard entry requirement for all Level 5 courses. Leaving Certificate Applied or QQI Level 4 Award are also acceptable on the majority of Level 5 courses. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements (e.g. mature learners etc.) for particular courses may be interviewed. A QQI Level 5 award or equivalent in a relevant subject area is the standard entry requirement for Level 6 Advanced Certificate courses.
Non-Standard Applicants
Non-Standard Applicants may be required to complete an interview and/or other form of assessment to successfully complete their registration on their chosen programme.
English Language
All courses are delivered through English. In addition to the listed entry requirements, applicants whose first language is not English are required to complete and provide evidence of English language proficiency. Where prospective learners first language is not English, the standard minimum entry requirements for all courses is proficiency at B2 on The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
School Leavers
Whether you have attended school in Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK or further afield, we have a programme to suit your needs. We have a wide range of suitable programmes with internationally recognised certification that will enhance both your career and further education possibilities.
International Students
DIFE welcomes applications from eligible international students. Help and advice is available for international students at every step of the application process and continues after enrolment onto your chosen programme.
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Students who successfully complete this course are eligible to apply for apprenticeships or go directly into the work force. Careers for engineers exist across all industry sectors. Qualified engineers typically work in sectors such as energy, transport, medical science, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, agriculture and waste management. Graduates may also apply to a range of related degree courses in universities and technological universities.
Level 7 and 8 Courses to which this course is linked:
TU Dublin (City Campus)
Product Design, Transport Operations and Technology. Engineering Systems Maintenance, Automation Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Management and Technology, Aviation Technology, Engineering – General Entry, Networking Technologies.
Waterford IT
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering Reliability Management.
Entry to a range of other courses in Institutes of Technology.
This is not an exhaustive list. Applicants are advised at all times to confirm linked Awards, any additional module requirements, application processes and scoring systems with the Admissions Offices of the participating higher education institutions, or visit www.cao.ie.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
The aim of this course is to provide learners with an understanding of the field of Engineering. Students will gain practical skills to pursue a career in the Engineering industry and have an introduction to theory necessary for entry into Third Level education.
Students will also have the opportunity to study QQI Level 5 Maths required for entry into Engineering courses at Third Level. In this course learners will through theory and practice gain experience in the following: Machine Processes, Bench Fitting, Precision Measurement, Computer Aided Design, 3D Printing & Electronics.
Engineering Workshop Processes
Engineering Workshop Theory
Computer Aided Draughting (2D)
Electronics
Mathematics 5N1833
Safety & Health at Work
Communications
Work Experience
Engineering Drawing
5M2061 - Engineering Technology
Maths 5N1833
Maths for STEM 5N0556 (optional)
Award: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Engineering Technology - 5M2061 (incl Maths 5N1833)
Optional:
• Maths for STEM 5N0556
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie