Animal Production
This part-time, minor award at NFQ level 7 was developed by DkIT in partnership with Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College. It is evident that there is a need to provide ongoing education for qualified, experienced farmers to allow them to keep pace with ongoing technological and policy changes in the animal production sector. This programme is aimed at holders of ‘Green Certs’ who have significant experience but did not pursue higher or further education beyond NFQ level 6.
| Award Name | Certificate |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Dundalk Institute of Technology |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Dundalk Institute of Technology |
Duration
1 Year
The course will be delivered on 2 evenings per week, one of which will be online and one on campus in either DkIT or Ballyhaise College. Laboratory and farm practical classes will be held on one Saturday during each semester.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for entry to the programme are as follows:
Higher Certificate in Science in Agriculture or equivalent (NFQ level 6 Higher Education);
OR
Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (NFQ level 6 QQI award) and a minimum of 2 years relevant post qualification experience;
OR
Certificate in Agriculture (NFQ Level 5 QQI award) with NFQ level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farm Administration and a minimum of 3 years relevant post qualification experience;
OR
Other NFQ level 6 Agriculture awards that meet the requirements for the Green Cert, which may be considered under the DkIT Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) Policy.
Candidates may be invited for interview and this will form part of the selection process where demand exceeds available places.
For candidates who do not meet the above entry criteria but have considerable relevant experience, the DkIT Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy and procedures may be applied.
Careers / Further progression
Progression Opportunities Graduates of this programme may be interested in progressing to the full BSc in Agriculture, of which this programme is a sub-set.
Further information
Registration for a part-time course at DkIT could not be easier.
Just click on dkit.ie/parttime or dkit.ie/postgraduate to search for your course and follow the ‘How To Apply’ instructions on the course page.
Please note that early registration is advisable as the number of places on many courses are limited. Applications will be dealt with in order of receipt of completed application and appropriate fee. Applicants must notify the Lifelong Learning Centre in writing in the event of your withdrawal from any course for any reason.
If you have any questions about registering for a course, contact our Lifelong Learning Team on parttime@dkit.ie or call us on +353 (0)42 9370290
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Tax Relief / Other Funders
Tax relief at the standard rate of tax (20%) is available for certain tuition fees on courses which lead to third-level awards.
For further information visit revenue.ie to receive a copy of form IT31. This applies only to students who are funding their studies from their own income. Always retain your receipt of payment from DkIT for tax purposes.
In certain circumstances students may receive financial aid in paying their fees from County Enterprise Boards, Leader Partnerships, Department of Social Protection and other organisations.
Graduates of this programme will demonstrate:
Knowledge of animal production, husbandry, breeding, disease control, all of which are underpinned by a strong sustainable environment focus with a view to optimising animal health and associated environment.
Understanding of the key quality management and food safety standards and tools with a view to producing safe and traceable meat products
Who Should Apply?
Holders of ‘Green Certs’ who have experience in the industry and wish to:
Progress academically and obtain a level 7 award.
Develop new skills in identified areas such as sustainable animal
production.
Update and improve skills and practices and obtain better access to funded existing and future schemes
Course Content
Modules studied include:
Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition
Poultry and Pig Production Systems
Advanced Livestock Management
Who Should Apply?
Holders of ‘Green Certs’ who have experience in the industry and wish to:
Progress academically and obtain a level 7 award. Develop new skills in identified areas such as sustainable animal production.
Update and improve skills and practices and obtain better access to funded existing and future schemes.
Dr Siobhan Jordan (Acting Head of Department of Agriculture, Food and Animal Health)
Email: Siobhan.Jordan@dkit.ie
Geraldine O'Connor (Head of Part-time Programmes, School of Health and Science)
Email: geraldine.oconnor@dkit.ie