Tertiary Degrees in Ireland: Understanding the Tertiary Programme Pathway

Ireland’s higher education system offers a range of flexible pathways into tertiary study (post secondary-level education, including both further education and higher education), with traditional routes such as the CAO points system now complemented by alternative entry options. One of the more recent developments is the Tertiary Programme, which provides a structured route from further education (QQI levels 5 & 6) into university-level degrees (QQI levels 7 & 8).

What is a Tertiary Degree Pathway?

A tertiary degree pathway allows students to begin their studies within an Education and Training Board (ETB) setting and then progress directly into a partner higher education institution. Rather than competing for a place through CAO points, students enrol in a Level 5 or Level 6 course and, upon successful completion, transition into a linked degree programme.

This model is designed to widen participation in higher education, particularly for students who may prefer a more gradual transition into university learning or who do not wish to rely solely on Leaving Certificate results.

How the Tertiary Programme Works

Students start their academic journey in a local ETB college, where class sizes are often smaller and support structures can be more personalised. Over the course of one or two years, they complete a further education qualification aligned with their chosen field of study.

On successful completion, students automatically progress into a linked university or technological university degree programme. This progression does not require CAO points, provided all academic requirements are met.

Range of Courses Available

There are currently 78 tertiary routes available across Ireland, covering a wide variety of disciplines. These include:

Business and Accounting
Engineering and Technology
Health and Social Care
Science and Environmental Studies
Creative Arts and Media
Information Technology and Computing

Each pathway is designed in collaboration between ETBs and higher education institutions to ensure alignment between further education and degree-level expectations.

Benefits of the Tertiary Programme

For many students, the tertiary route offers a number of practical advantages:

No CAO points requirement: Entry is based on enrolling in a further education course rather than Leaving Certificate results alone.
Step-by-step progression: Students build confidence and academic skills before entering university.
Local access: Initial study often takes place close to home, reducing accommodation and travel costs.
Smaller class sizes: ETB settings can offer more direct support and interaction with tutors.
Clear progression routes: Students know from the outset which degree they are working towards.

Things to Consider

While the programme offers flexibility, it is not without its considerations. Students should be aware that progression to the degree stage typically depends on meeting specific academic criteria, such as achieving certain grades or completing required modules.

Additionally, while the first phase of study may be local, progression into the partner university may involve relocation, depending on the institution involved.

Who is it Suitable For?

The tertiary programme can suit a wide range of learners, including:

Students seeking an alternative to the CAO points system
Those who prefer a more supported learning environment initially
Mature learners returning to education
Students who want a clearer, structured pathway into a specific degree

The Bigger Picture

The introduction of tertiary pathways reflects a broader shift in Ireland’s education system towards greater accessibility and flexibility. By linking further education and higher education more closely, the system aims to provide multiple entry points into degree-level study and reduce barriers that may have previously limited participation.

As these routes continue to expand, prospective students have more choice than ever in how they begin their journey towards a bachelor’s degree.