Agriculture

Course details

This course, accredited by FETAC/QQI, is the introductory course for young people who wish to take up a career in farming. The course is suitable for people seeking employment on farms or working on their own farms. Graduates of the course are eligible to:

• Transfer to linked courses at Institutes of Technology through the Higher Education Links Scheme
• Gain employment on a farm either in Ireland or Abroad
• Run and manage their own farm enterprise

Award

Successful completion of this course will result in a FETAC/QQI Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture, 5M2373.

Entry requirements

Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or Leaving Certificate Applied or equivalent. For mature students these requirements need not apply and applications will be considered based on a proven interest in organic farming. Entry will be subject to interview/assessment.

Modules studied on this course include:

• Communications
• Crop Production Science
• Animal Production Science
• Farm Business Organisation
• Beef Production
• Sheep Production
• Agricultural Mechanics
• Chemical Fertiliser Application
• Leadership

Communications

Students will learn a variety of communication skills including oral presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint, discussion & negotiation skills, internet & e-mail skills as well as structured report writing, document preparation and non-verbal communication techniques.

Crop Production Science

The purpose of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to apply scientific principles to the production and management of crops.

Animal Production Science

Farm Business Organisation

This module aims to equip the student with the knowledge, skill and competence to maintain accurate records for physical and financial analysis of the farm. It also gives the learner the opportunity to gain an understanding of farming as an enterprise, which has to adhere to current legislation and the importance of implementation of the Safety Health and Welfare at work act 2005.

Beef Production

This module aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to operate a commercial beef farm under management in accordance with best practice and relevant legislation.

Sheep Production

This module aims to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to operate a commercial sheep farm under management in accordance with recommended standards, relevant legislation and good farming practice.

Agricultural Mechanics

The purpose of this module is to facilitate the learner to develop the skills and knowledge to perform a range of mechanical/electrical maintenance and repair procedures associated with tractors and farm workshops in a competent and safe manner.

Chemical Fertiliser Application

This module aims to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skills and competence to apply chemical fertilisers in accordance with crop nutrient requirements and environmental legislation.

Leadership

This Level 6 module enables the student to gain an insight into theory of leadership, and its evolvement over time. Students also conduct research and provide feedback in a varity of forms thus providing the opportunity to improve and enhance their communication skills.

Course Structure

Practical experience in a farm environment will form an integral part of the course and may take place at a number of locations.

Course Evaluation

Course work will be evaluated on the basis of written examinations, project work and practical skill.

Career Options | Progression

Holders of a FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture may progress to further studies at Institutes of Technology/Universities or directly enter employment in agriculture, the food industry or associated environmentally sustainable enterprises.