Overhead mage of students studying together at a round table

Information for Students

Overview

This page contains information for students and applicants about starting your tertiary degree journey.

We also have an FAQ page and a separate page on Student Financial Support. If you can’t find the info you’re looking for, contact your local tertiary manager who will be more than happy to help you out!

Tertiary Degrees 101

A tertiary degree is a new way to get an undergraduate degree at Level 7 or Level 8 NFQ. Education and Training Boards (ETBs) have partnered with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs ) to co-design and co-deliver degrees.

You start studying in your local further education and training centre, then progress, usually in your second or third year of study, to a HEI campus.

Tertiary degrees have a different entry process, but in the end, students graduate from the HEI with the same degree as everyone else.

There are many unique features that make tertiary degrees a great option, including smaller class sizes, the dual benefits of both campuses, and no points race for entry.

A tertiary degree is currently the only guaranteed pathway from further education to higher education in Ireland, making an undergraduate degree more accessible for more people.

Unique Features

No Leaving Certificate points system

Entry requirements for tertiary degrees are never based on a points system. Instead, we’ve tailored entry requirements to what you’ll really need to succeed for each tertiary degree. Sometimes that means certain subject requirements, or applying with a portfolio, or even an interview. Entry requirements are different for each degree, so check the course page to be sure.

Student Financial Support

There are no tuition or student contribution fees at the ETB level. Students can apply for the SUSI FE grants throughout a tertiary degree, including while studying at ETB campus. Full details of student financial support.

Embedded Awards

The Tertiary Degree programmes are designed to support academic success despite challenges that may arise. However, if a student has to leave the programme before completing the final year, tertiary degrees include embedded awards. Embedded awards formally recognise learning achieved during time in the programme. The embedded awards vary for each course, so check the individual course page for the tertiary degree you’re interested in.

Local Start

Tertiary Degrees are offered by 14 ETBs (over 19 FET campuses), partnering with 6 HEIs (over 11 campuses). New locations will be added every year.

This means students can start the pathway locally, with guaranteed progression to the HEI (which might be further away). This may mean you won’t have to move away from where you live just to get started on your undergraduate journey, and therefore reduce stress in your first year of study.

Seamless Progression

A tertiary degree is a seamless pathway from further education study with the ETB into higher education study with the HEI, all housed within one application process. There is a guaranteed progression, subject to passing the exams, into your undergraduate degree. That progression is supported by visits or lectures at the HEI while at the ETB level, so that students know what to expect when they move on to higher levels of study.

Dual Benefits

Students can access the services and supports of both the ETB and the HEI throughout a tertiary degree. This includes libraries, sports facilities, and academic, health and wellbeing supports.

You’ll have a student card for both the ETB and the HEI from day 1 of your degree.

Dream Degree to Dream Career

All new tertiary degrees are designed around gaps in the Irish job market. We want passionate students to sign up for a qualification, knowing there are many job opportunities waiting for you on the other end.

How to Apply

Find the tertiary degree you’re interested in on our Courses page. The individual course page will have all the entry requirements (they’re different for each tertiary degree).

View all courses

Tertiary Degrees Application Process

Application submitted via NTO.ie
Request for additional applicant details or supporting documents issued if required
Invitation for applicant to attend interview/engagement
Provisional offer issued
Applicant confirmation of acceptance of provisional offer
Final confirmed offer issued

Student Resources

NTO Flier (PDF)
Flier is developed for students and potential applicants and includes key features as well as links to relevant website information pages.
Tertiary Application Timeline (PDF)
To inform students and guidance professionals of the Tertiary Degree application timeline.
Applicants Guidelines: How to write a personal statement, How to prepare for an interview (PDF)
To assist students with the Tertiary Degree Application
NTO Video
Presents key features of the Tertiary Degrees in a short information graphic video.

Any Questions?

Tertiary degrees are new, and you might have some questions, we’ve answered our most common FAQ here.

Alternatively, if you want to talk to someone who can guide you through the process and answer any additional questions, your local tertiary manager will be happy to hear from you. Their contact details are listed below: