Agriculture Course (Level 5 Certificate)

Course Overview

Welcome to Gurteen College's Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture course. Our comprehensive program, also known as the 'Green Cert', is meticulously crafted to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the agricultural sector.

Accredited by QQI, our certificate program blends practical hands-on training with insightful classroom sessions, offering a well-rounded education in modern farming practices. Whether you're an aspiring farmer or aiming to secure employment within the agricultural industry, our Level 5 Certificate serves as the ideal starting point for your journey. This full time course takes one academic year to complete, and is typically followed by one of our full time Level 6 Advanced Certificate courses: Dairy Husbandry Management, Drystock Husbandry Management, or Crops & Machinery Management

Throughout the course, you will delve into the core principles of animal husbandry, crop management, and machinery operations, gaining a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in sustainable agriculture. From mastering livestock care techniques to learning efficient crop cultivation methods, our curriculum is designed to empower you with the expertise necessary to excel in diverse agricultural settings.

At Gurteen College, we prioritise practical learning experiences, providing ample opportunities for you to apply your newfound knowledge in real-world scenarios. Through hands-on fieldwork and industry-relevant projects, you will develop the practical skills and confidence needed to navigate the challenges of modern agriculture with ease.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including modern farm equipment and cutting-edge technology, you will receive a comprehensive education that aligns with industry standards and best practices.

Join us at Gurteen College and discover your potential in agriculture. Explore our course offerings and take the first step towards a rewarding career in one of Ireland's most vital and vibrant sectors. Enrol today and cultivate your future with us.

Course Structure

The Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture combines practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for success in farming. Students undertake an eight-week work placement from March, working alongside experienced farm staff. This practical experience complements classroom learning, providing first-hand insights into agricultural practices.

Assessment covers practical skills and theory, with students maintaining a diary of farm activities. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the agricultural industry.

Course Subjects:

• Grass Production: This module covers the fundamentals of managing grass as a crop on farms. It includes understanding grass growth, measurement, and management techniques, as well as aspects like fencing and maintaining farm water supplies.

• Dairy Husbandry: Students learn about managing dairy herds, focusing on cow health, milk production, and dairy industry practices both in Ireland and globally. Topics include cow health management, milk quality, housing design, and safe dairy production methods.

• Beef Husbandry: This module introduces students to beef cattle management, including skills related to animal health, breeding, housing, and estimating animal conformation and weight. It covers various aspects of beef production and breeds commonly found in Ireland.

• Sheep Husbandry: Students explore the fundamentals of sheep farming, including sheep health, welfare, and nutrition. Topics include lambing practices, parasite control, identifying sheep breeds, and managing sheep housing facilities.

• All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs): This module teaches learners how to safely operate and handle ATVs, essential for tasks on the farm. Students learn about ATV safety, maintenance, and compliance with relevant legislation.

• Farm Business and Technology: Students gain knowledge about utilising modern technology in farm management to optimise productivity and profitability. Topics include farm financial management, technological applications in agriculture, and understanding key drivers of farm business success.

• Farm Safety and Farm Assurance: This module emphasises the importance of farm safety practices and compliance with industry standards. Students learn about identifying and mitigating farm hazards, safe work methods, and considerations for farm infrastructure and equipment.

• Soils and the Environment: This module provides an understanding of soil properties, classification, and management practices. Students learn about soil composition, nutrient management, soil microorganisms, and environmental legislation related to farming practices.

• Safe Use of Pesticide Products: Students learn about the safe handling and application of pesticides in accordance with EU regulations. The module covers pesticide selection, application methods, and safety precautions to minimise environmental and health risks.

• Chemical Fertilizer Application: This module introduces the use of chemical fertilisers in conjunction with other nutrient management practices on farms. Students learn about the types and application of chemical fertilisers to optimise crop yields and soil fertility.

• Principles of Agriculture: This module offers a broad overview of the agriculture industry, covering various sectors such as dairy, beef, sheep, and tillage. Students learn about plant physiology, animal behaviour, and safe handling practices relevant to agricultural operations.

Awards

Upon successful completion of the Level 5 course, students receive a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture.

After obtaining the QQI Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture, graduates have a couple of paths they can pursue:

1. Progress to a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture course. The available Level 6 courses at Gurteen College include:

   1. Dairy Husbandry Management

   2. Drystock Husbandry Management

   3. Crops and Machinery Management 

2. Transfer to Year 2 of a Higher Certificate in Agriculture or a BSc in Agriculture, including Gurteen College / TUS degree courses in Agricultural Science and Sustainability: 

   1. BSc in Agricultural Science and Sustainability (Level 7) 

   2. BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science and Sustainability (Level 8)

To be eligible for these transfers, students must achieve a distinction in at least three modules at Level 6 course.

Transfer to these linked courses at Institutes of Technology are also accessible through the Higher Education Links Scheme.

Duration & Schedule

This full-time course spans one academic year, which includes:

• 27 weeks in College

• 8 weeks on Placement with a registered Host Farmer

• 3 weeks holiday

• 2 Repeat Weeks (students need to be available to come in if asked to do so during the 2 weeks after classes finish)

This course is typically followed by one of our full-time Level 6 Advanced Certificate courses with duration of: 

• Dairy Husbandry Management

• Drystock Husbandry Management

• Crops and Machinery Management 

Eligibility

Applicants must have a good general education and be a minimum of 17 years old by January 1st following entry to the course. This course is particularly beneficial for those who have completed the senior cycle at second level (Leaving Certificate or equivalent).

Next Start Date

The next intake for the course is scheduled for September 2024.

Application Details

Applications are accessible online via the Gurteen College website or directly through the Teagasc website. Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• Proof of PPS Number (a formal document or card displaying your PPSN)

• Proof of Name and Date of Birth (preferably a Birth Certificate or Passport)

• Driving Licence (front and back) if applicable

• Medical Card (front and back) if applicable

We recommend saving photos of the required documents to your device (laptop or PC) for easy uploading during the application process.

Tuition Fees

Gurteen College offers on-site residential accommodation for students who prefer to stay on campus. Residential students are required to ensure they pay the correct amount for accommodation when the first instalment of fees is due.

The costs for Gurteen's courses are all-inclusive, covering meals, printing, workbooks, WiFi, utilities, access to the student kitchen, and use of on-site sporting facilities.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the total cost for the Level 5 (full-time) course is €6800 for residential students and €2750 for non-residential students. Payments are divided into two instalments:

Residential - Total Cost €6800 

1. €4200 due by August 2024

2. €2600 due by December 2024

Non-Residential - Total Cost €2750

1. €1650 due by August 2024

2. €1100 due by December 2024

Applicants to the course may apply for the Teagasc Student Maintenance Grant Scheme (Means Tested & Distance related) during the application process. For more info, visit the Teagasc website.

Embark on a transformative educational journey that equips you for a rewarding career in agriculture. For further details and to request an application pack, please send us a message via our contact form or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!