Course Aim
If you’re like most first-year college students, you may be unsure of your future plans and what you want to study. The College Access Programme accommodates students who want to explore a variety of career fields in one year to identify the best degree/ career path to pursue. The programme provides a selection of studies in social, childcare, healthcare, animal care and computer-related subjects which is beneficial for school leavers, adult learners, working students, and career changers who want to progress to further studies.
Learners will complete a combination of the following:
- Research and Study Skills
- Social Studies
- Animal Grooming
- Care Support
- Child Development and Play
- Understanding Special Needs
- Communications
- Work Experience
- Word Processing
Qualification Obtained
QQI Level 5 Major Award (5M3114) in General Studies
Entry Requirements
All our Level 5 PLC courses are open to school leavers (Leaving Cert/ Leaving Cert Applied Students/A Levels/GCSE or equivalent), QQI Level 4 graduates and mature applicants. A QQI Level 5 award is a prerequisite to access a Level 6 programme
This flexible course will provide learners with the opportunity to develop essential skills, knowledge and competencies suitable for progression to a work environment and/or as a pathway to further studies.
Progression To Degree
DCU | Social Sciences and Cultural Innovation | Level 8
WIT | Applied Healthcare | Level 7
DKIT/AIT | Social Care |Level 8
DCU | Arts & Humanities | Level 8
AIT | Veterinary Nursing | Level 7
DKIT | Digital Humanities | Level 8
DKIT/AIT | Early Years Care & Education | Level 7
Career Prospects
Following the successful completion of the College Access Programme, you may progress to a degree which can lead to a career in:
Social Work | Veterinary Nurse | Health Care Associate | Childcare Practitioner | Personal Assistant | Special Needs Assistant
2020-21 Course Fees
|
€50 |
|
€150 |
|
€200 |
|
€50 |
|
€30 |
Note - Some courses may require the learner to purchase relevant industry-specific material for their own use which may not be included in the list of course fees.
€30 of Enrolment Fees are Non-Refundable. All fees subject to change.
Fee Exemptions
The following categories of participant are exempt from paying the PLC Government Levy:
- Medical Card/SUSI Grant/Back to Education Allowance Holders may be exempted from PLC Government Levy. Documentary Evidence must be presented immediately to avail of such exemptions.
- Medical Card/Back to Education Allowance Holders may be exempted from QQI Exam Fees. Documentary Evidence must be presented immediately to avail of such exemptions.
Fee Payments
All fees must be paid online with a Credit/Debit card in advance of course commencement on 7th September 2020. Fees are subject to change. Please note that no refunds will be made by OFI after Friday 2nd October 2020. All requests for refunds must be made by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.