You will have a mixture of classroom-based subjects, laboratory practicals, mandatory work placement (including a work shop in Dublin Zoo) and independent study. You will be expected to complete assignments throughout the year.

Course work will consist of a combination of onsite & online learning.

Animal Anatomy & Physiology

Biology-optional

Word Processing

Animal Grooming

Health & Safety

Animal Welfare

Veterinary Assisting Skills

Maths- optional

Work Experience

Communications

A student over 16 years seeking entry to this programme does not need a previous formal qualification. However, the student must demonstrate at interview the capacity to successfully participate on this programme. This includes both the academic and work experience elements of the programme. Should the student have previous qualifications, one of the following may be advantageous for admission to the programme:



Leaving Certificate/LCA

QQI Level 4 Award

Students who may not have formal academic requirements but who have the ability to successfully participate on the course will be considered. (RPL Recognition of Prior Learning)

If English is not your first language you may be asked to complete an English assessment

Note Students should note that some of the practical work on this course requires some physical effort and direct contact with animals. Consequently, students with any back problems, respiratory illnesses or allergies or indeed any other injuries or conditions should discuss this matter with the course coordinator at enrolment. You must have proof of a current tetanus vaccination. Applicants should have access to their own pets/animals for elements of this course.

Students may progress from Level 5 Award to participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme. This Award is a recognised and respected link with Vet Nursing degrees in UCD, DKIT (Dundalk), MTU Tralee, TUS Athlone and ATU Letterkenny. Ulster University also offers Vet Nursing. However this is a highly competitive route. The Award also links with Science & Bioscience degrees in TU Dublin. Animal Science Level 5 is a recognised link with UCD Science/Zoology Degree DN200, Ag. Science DN250 (Animal Science, Equine Science etc.) It also links with Wildlife Biology in MTU Tralee and Freshwater Marine Biology in ATU Galway. On meeting the Entry Requirements for ATU Sligo, through a special link, students are guaranteed places on many of their Level 6/7 science courses. The new Laboratory apprenticeships are also an option.



This Award is recognised by UK Colleges for Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour and Veterinary Nursing degrees.



Animal Science can also act as a gateway into the animal industry. Past students are working in animal welfare organisations (Dogs Trust); safari parks (Tayto Safari Park); as Animal Care Assistants in veterinary clinics, pet stores, kennels, stables and in Dublin Zoo.