News- Tertiary Programmes Launch 28th March 2025

Overview

New Tertiary Degrees are open for applications.

New exciting opportunities for learners to access tertiary degree courses in areas of Occupational Therapy, Social Care Practice, Digital Arts, and Intellectual Disability Nursing are now open for applications on www.nto.ie.

Students can begin their studies at a local further education institute before seamlessly progressing to higher education without challenges of the traditional points system.
Over 40 degree courses will be available for students to apply to commence their study in September 2025.
Applications are open to school leavers, and those returning to education opening additional pathways to make education more accessible, enabling people to achieve their dream career.
Established in 2023 by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Skills in a joint initiative between the Higher Education Authority and SOLAS, the National Tertiary Office (NTO) was tasked with the development of new progressive pathways through further education to higher education which is central to the government’s ambition of a unified tertiary education system.
Students interested in pursuing a degree through the new tertiary route should visit the National Tertiary Office website (www.nto.ie) where students may apply for programmes on offer this September. For the eligibility criteria and course specific entry requirements, please refer to the course information section on the NTO website. General queries may be addressed to the NTO and course specific queries should be directed to the relevant Tertiary Coordinator as listed on the website.

University College Cork and Cork & Kerry ETBs Launch Groundbreaking BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy

New Tertiary Degree Programme Offers Unique Pathway from Further Education to University

Cork, Ireland – March 28th, 2025

University College Cork (UCC) and Cork & Kerry Education and Training Boards (ETBs) are delighted to announce the launch of an innovative new tertiary degree programme, the BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy. This exciting collaboration provides students with a unique pathway, beginning in Further Education and progressing directly to UCC upon meeting entry requirements.

A Transformative Approach to Occupational Therapy Education

Occupational therapy is a dynamic and rewarding profession dedicated to helping individuals overcome physical, mental, or social barriers to living fulfilling lives. This five-year programme integrates a first-year learning at Cork College of Further Education, Morrison’s Island Campus, and Kerry College, Denny Street Campus, with a four-year degree at UCC, ensuring a seamless transition for students.

The course embodies a holistic development approach where the emphasis is on personal and professional growth opportunities woven throughout academic and practical modules. Innovative learning methods such as task-based learning (TBL), fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and self-directed study are integrated into all years of the programme. Throughout the five-year degree programme, students delve into paediatric, adult, and geriatric care, as well as physical and mental health. Fully accredited by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists and the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland ensures international employability for its graduates.

This innovative programme seeks passionate individuals committed to making a difference in healthcare and includes embedded awards to certify students’ progress:

• Year 1 Completion: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Health Service Skills
• Years 2-5 Completion: BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy from UCC

For entry and progression requirements along with the next steps please go to BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy | Courses | National Tertiary Office

A New Era in Allied Health Education – Quotes

“The Discipline of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy are delighted to work in partnership with our colleagues in the Cork and Kerry ETBs to provide this new pathway for occupational therapy education. As the demand for occupational therapists continues to grow we are pleased to partner with the Health Service Executive South West, the National HSCP Office and the National Training Office to increase the number of student places in occupational therapy at UCC and to provide alternative entry pathways into our degree programme. This is the first programme of its kind in the Republic of Ireland, and we are grateful to the President and Registrar’s commitment to increasing the diversity of our student body while responding to the urgent need to grow our occupational therapy workforce,” said Professor Margaret McGrath, Head of Department, Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University College Cork.

Owen O’Donnell, Director FET, Kerry Education and Training Board, stated, “Kerry ETB is proud to partner in this innovative programme that creates new opportunities for students across our region. This collaboration between further education and higher education institutions demonstrates how we can work together to address skills needs in the healthcare sector while providing clear progression routes for our learners.”

John Fitzgibbons, Director of FET, Cork ETB, added, “This partnership with UCC is a fantastic opportunity for learners to begin their journey in occupational therapy through the Further Education sector. It reflects our commitment to creating accessible, high-quality pathways that meet the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. We’re proud to support students in achieving their academic and career aspirations in this vital field.”

For More Information

Prospective students are encouraged to contact:

Tertiary Managers- Kathy Bradley and Gobnait Burke

Email: feather@corketb.ie or nto@corketb.ie

 

ATU and CMETB launch Tertiary Degree Programme in Social Care Practice at Cavan Institute

ATU, in partnership with Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB) recently launched a new Tertiary Education degree at Cavan Institute, the BA (Hons) in Social Care Practice. The programme which already exists at ATU Sligo’s campus, now provides a one year plus three-year study opportunity for learners interested in studying year one of the honours degree programme at Cavan Institute.
Following completion of year one of the programme, learners will then progress to year two of the honour’s degree programme at ATU Sligo. This innovative partnership between ATU and Cavan Institute is the latest addition to the tertiary education programme offering at ATU and is a significant step forward for the social care sector and regional development.

This partnership provides a flexible and accessible pathway to a university degree for students in the Cavan region and beyond. Students can now progress from further education (FE) to higher education (HE) within their local community, reducing barriers like travel and accommodation costs.
Additionally, the programme aims to meet current industry demand for social care practitioners. The social care sector in Ireland is facing a growing demand for qualified professionals due to an aging population, increased mental health needs, and social service expansion.

Dr. Breda McTaggart, Head of Faculty of Business and Social Sciences at ATU Sligo commented, “This degree ensures a steady pipeline of skilled graduates ready to support vulnerable communities. By partnering with Cavan Institute, ATU supports regional education growth, enabling students to study closer to home. Graduates are more likely to stay and work locally, strengthening social services in rural and underserved areas. Students can start at Cavan Institute and smoothly transition to ATU without disruption and this integrated approach aligns with the government’s focus on tertiary education making it easier for students to achieve degree-level qualifications.”

Speaking for Cavan Institute, Director Dr. Niall McVeigh commented, “The initiative encourages our students including mature learners and career changers to enter social care through an alternative entry route. It enhances opportunities for professional development, upskilling, and career progression. The programme combines academic theory with practical, hands-on training, ensuring graduates are job ready. The partnership with ATU is a positive step forward for learners in this region and is a welcomed addition to the programme provision available at Cavan Institute.”
To find out more about this programme and how to apply to join, visit www.cavaninstitute.ie

TUS and TETB launch Tertiary Degree Programme in Digital Arts (Common Entry)
This programme aims to offer students the opportunity to complete year one of a common entry degree in Digital Arts, with Tipperary ETB, before having a guaranteed progression route to years two to four with TUS Midwest (Clonmel Campus).
Year one of this four-year degree programme will provide students with the opportunity to complete modules that will introduce them to the concepts, knowledge and skills associated with digital animation, game art and design and visual effects.
Students will have access to industry standard equipment, software applications and subject matter experts to guide them, so as to ensure they can make an informed decision on their preferred year 2 programme.
Having successfully completed year one of the degree, students will progress to year two of their chosen degree in one of the following:
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Digital Animation
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Game Art and Design
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Visual Effects for Film, TV, and Animation

For More Information prospective students and stakeholders are encouraged to contact:

Tertiary Managers- Jenny Whelan & Sarah O’Toole

For more information, please contact the Tertiary Managers at admissions@tipperaryetb.ie

SETU and WWETB launch Tertiary Degree Programme in Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Intellectual Disability Nursing

SETU, Cork Road, Waterford and Waterford College of Further Education (WCFE), part of Waterford and Wexford education and Training Board (WWETB), are proposing to offer the SETU Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Intellectual Disability Nursing, as part of the new Unified Tertiary System
The collaboration between SETU and WWETB, where the BSc. (Hons) in Intellectual Disability Nursing will be made available to FET learners in WCFE as part of the tertiary system, will offer tertiary learners the opportunity to partake in a 1+4 degree programme, where they will complete the first year as a pre-entry route, in Waterford College of Further Education, followed by Years 1,2, 3 and 4 of the honours degree at SETU’s Waterford campus in the Department of Nursing.

Intellectual disability nurses work in environments such as in people’s homes, education and community settings, residential and respite services, schools and health centres. Intellectual disability nurses can work with children, adolescents, adults and their families. Intellectual disability nurses work as part of a multidisciplinary team in the community.

Graduates may practice as a Registered Intellectual Disability Nurse within the Irish healthcare sector and voluntary services. Universally Irish nurses are highly regarded by other countries thus enhancing work opportunities.

Following qualification, it is possible to specialise in a number of areas within intellectual disability nursing i.e. challenging behaviour, multiple and complex disabilities. Alternatively, graduates may choose to pursue advanced studies in nursing education or nursing management.
The BSc. (hons) in Intellectual Disability Nursing at Level 8 offered as a tertiary programme between SETU and WWETB, will provide learners with a breadth of transferable health competencies.

For More Information prospective students and stakeholders are encouraged to contact:

Tertiary Managers- Alan O’Gorman & Sarah Sartori

For more information, please contact the Tertiary Managers at nto@wwetb.ie

Recent articles

February 2025:
Tertiary Manager Kathy Bradley recently wrote an article for AHEAD. Kathy is a dedicated leader in education, committed to expanding opportunities for learners across the Cork and Kerry region. As a tertiary manager, she works to develop innovative pathways to higher education, ensuring accessibility and support for diverse student groups. With a background in financial services, Kathy brings a strong foundation in strategic planning and operational development. She is also passionate about community engagement, communication and storytelling. With a hands-on approach and a focus on collaboration, Kathy is dedicated to fostering inclusive and dynamic learning environments.

Link to article here:Article

Events

March 2025:

Gobnait & Kathy from the Cork & Kerry Strategic Alliance
Branding on the go. Driving traffic to the website one scan at a time! Fantastic reaction to new tertiary jackets in the kingdom in March 2025.