Healthcare Support – QQI level 5

The Healthcare Support programme is designed to provide learners with the practical skills, knowledge, and experience required to begin a rewarding career as a Healthcare Assistant. This comprehensive QQI Level 5 qualification prepares students to work confidently in real healthcare settings including hospitals, nursing homes, and community care environments.

Credit Value: 120 ECTS | Level: QQI Level 5 | Duration: 40 Weeks

Learners will develop expertise across key areas including patient care, safety and hygiene, communication, anatomy and physiology, and professional healthcare practice, while also building confidence working as part of a multidisciplinary care team.

This programme also provides a strong progression pathway into further healthcare studies and higher education programmes within the National Framework of Qualifications.

Learning Modes

On Campus – Full Time

Delivered through classroom-based learning with tutor support and blended online materials.

• 1 evening per week on campus + 1 live webinar
• 40 weeks duration
• 5 weeks allocated per module
• Face-to-face tutor interaction
• Moodle access included

Location: Dublin 2 City Centre
Fees: €1,535.00
Payment Options: Instalment plan available (36 monthly payments of €52.31)

Blended Online

Delivered through live online webinars, recorded lectures, and structured learning materials.

• Semi self-directed learning
• Live webinars every 2 weeks
• Recorded lectures and online resources
• Tutor interaction and Moodle access
• 40 weeks duration

Fees: €1,210.00
Payment Options: Instalment plan available (36 monthly payments of €41.98)

On Demand

Delivered through fully flexible online self-paced learning.

• Fully self-directed learning
• Start within 48 hours of enrolment
• Access modules individually (minimum 4 weeks per module)
• Recorded lectures and course notes included
• Tutor support via email
• Moodle access provided

Fees: €995.00
Payment Options: Instalment plan available (12 monthly payments of €86.72)

Qualifications

QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support (5M4339)
8 QQI Level 5 Component Certificates

Course Structure

This programme is delivered over 40 weeks across 8 modules.

Learners will engage in structured learning including lectures, webinars, assignments, and practical work experience.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should meet the following:

• Basic computer literacy and access to a device with internet
• Minimum Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate or equivalent experience
• English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5 or recognised equivalent (if applicable)
• Ability to provide certification for any prior QQI modules used toward certification (within 5 years)

Assessments / Exams

Assessment is continuous and includes written assignments and practical examinations.

Learners may be required to complete practical components in a healthcare setting.

Work Placement

Learners must complete 160 hours of work experience in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, nursing home, or community care environment.

Additional training such as Patient Manual Handling and Basic First Aid may be required prior to placement.

Garda Vetting

Garda Vetting is mandatory under the National Vetting Bureau Acts 2012–2016.

Applicants must complete vetting before commencing placement. International applicants may be required to provide police clearance.

Career & Progression Opportunities

Graduates may pursue roles in:

Healthcare Assistant (Hospital or Nursing Home)
Community Care Worker
Residential Care Support Worker
Home Care Assistant

Graduates may also progress to QQI Level 6 healthcare qualifications or further study in nursing and healthcare-related fields.

Why Choose This Course?

✔️ Nationally recognised QQI Level 5 Healthcare qualification
✔️ Direct pathway into Healthcare Assistant roles
✔️ Flexible study options (On Campus, Blended, On Demand)
✔️ Includes mandatory work experience
✔️ Designed for beginners entering healthcare
✔️ Strong progression to further healthcare education

Modules

Classroom & Blended (Mandatory 8 modules)
Care Skills [5N2770]
Safety & Health at Work [5N1794]
Human Growth & Development [5N1279]
Communications [5N0690]
Anatomy & Physiology [5N0749]
Nursing Theory & Practice [5N4325]
Care Support [5N0758]
Work Experience [5N1356]

Online (Mandatory + Electives)
Mandatory modules:
Care Skills [5N2770]
Safety & Health at Work [5N1794]
Communications [5N0690]
Care Support [5N0758]
Work Experience [5N1356]

Elective modules:
Human Growth & Development [5N1279]
Anatomy & Physiology [5N0749]
Nursing Theory & Practice [5N4325]
Care of the Older Person [5N2706]
Infection Prevention & Control [5N3734]
Palliative Care Support [5N3769]
Social Studies [5N1370]
Intellectual Disabilities Studies [5N1652]

Learning Modes Available:
• On Campus
• Blended Online
• On Demand