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QQI Accredited | Career Focused | Healthcare Pathway
Embark on an expert-led nursing journey with our comprehensive QQI Nursing Course, designed to enhance your knowledge, skills, and understanding of the key roles and responsibilities of a professional nurse. This programme is ideal for aspiring nursing professionals and individuals looking to begin a meaningful career in the healthcare field.
The Nursing Studies Course Major Award equips you with the in-demand skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to apply for Nursing Degree programmes through CAO and UCAS in areas such as General Nursing, Maternity Nursing, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability, Children's Nursing, and Social Care in Ireland and the UK. You can also progress directly into a rewarding career as a Qualified Healthcare Assistant.
✓ Advance Your Nursing Career
Gain essential skills and accreditation to excel in healthcare.
✓ Comprehensive Training
Develop core nursing competencies for a strong academic and practical foundation.
✓ Boost Job Opportunities
Increase your employability in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities.
✓ Enhance Career Progression
Prepare for higher qualifications and potential leadership roles in healthcare.
✓ Make a Meaningful Impact
Contribute to patient care and community wellbeing through a fulfilling career.
✓ Flexible & Practical Learning
A one-year programme tailored for career-focused learners balancing work and study.
✓ Industry-Recognised Qualification
Stand out in a competitive and growing healthcare sector with a QQI Major Award.
✓ Improve Earning Potential
Access strong job prospects and enhanced salary opportunities in healthcare.
Career & Progression Outcomes
Graduates can progress into Nursing Degree programmes via CAO and UCAS, or step directly into a career as a Qualified Healthcare Assistant. Pathways include General Nursing, Maternity, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability, Children's Nursing, and Social Care in Ireland and the UK. For more information contact us at [email protected]
On the Nursing Studies Course, you will gain a thorough understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a professional nurse, as well as the importance of effective interpersonal communication. Designed for aspiring nurses, this programme provides specialist knowledge, skill enhancement, and the competence required for a successful career in nursing or related healthcare fields.
You will study core areas of nursing, build essential theoretical knowledge, and develop practical skills through hands-on work experience, ensuring you confidently bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Please Note: A Grade O6 in Ordinary Level Maths is mandatory for entry into Nursing Degree programmes in Ireland, while a Grade O5 in Ordinary Level Maths is required for entry into Nursing Degree programmes in the UK. You will also have the opportunity to discuss your career pathways with a Career Guidance Counsellor, who can support you throughout the CAO or UCAS application process.
Course Module Information Is Below
✓ Outline the composition of bone
Understand the structure and material makeup of the skeletal system.
✓ Outline the structure & function of blood and the heart
Explore how the cardiovascular system circulates blood throughout the body.
✓ Describe the lymphatic system & its relationship with blood
Learn how the lymphatic and circulatory systems work together to maintain health.
✓ Identify parts of the digestive system
Map the organs and structures that process food and absorb nutrients.
✓ Describe the respiratory system
Understand how the lungs and airways facilitate breathing and gas exchange.
✓ Explain the functions of the brain
Explore the roles of different brain regions in controlling body functions and behaviour.
✓ Explain the urinary system
Learn how the kidneys and related organs filter waste and regulate fluid balance.
✓ Outline the structure of the skin
Understand the layers and functions of the skin as a protective organ.
✓ Identify the main muscles in the body
Locate and name the major muscle groups and understand their roles in movement.
Module Assessment
Assignment: 40% | Theory Exam: 60%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N0749
✓ Understand the historical development of the nursing profession
Explore how nursing has evolved and the principles that underpin modern professional practice.
✓ Carry out basic observations & nursing skills
Perform fundamental clinical observations and apply core nursing skills in practice.
✓ Demonstrate the activities of living in patient care
Utilise the activities of living model to deliver person-centred care to patients.
✓ Explain the importance of precision in administering drugs
Understand the critical standards and accuracy required in safe medication administration.
✓ Implement correct reporting & recording procedures
Apply accurate documentation standards essential to patient safety and professional accountability.
✓ Create & practise a safe working environment
Apply infection control, health and safety protocols to protect patients and colleagues.
Module Assessment
Skills: 50% | Examination: 50%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N4325
✓ Explain normative patterns of development from infancy to old age
Understand key developmental milestones across each stage of the human lifespan.
✓ Recognise variations within the normal range of human growth
Identify what constitutes typical and atypical development across different age groups.
✓ Identify childhood, adolescent & adult needs and strategies to meet them
Recognise the developmental needs at each life stage and apply appropriate support strategies.
✓ Recognise the importance of secure attachments to child development
Understand how early attachment relationships shape emotional and social development.
✓ Discuss common issues that arise in adolescence
Explore the physical, psychological, and social challenges typical of the teenage years.
Module Assessment
Assignment: 60% | Examination: 40%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N1279
✓ Perform basic skills in understanding client care
Apply foundational care skills to support clients in a safe and hygienic environment.
✓ Assist clients with personal & physical needs
Support clients with daily activities, hygiene, and physical care in a respectful manner.
✓ Provide a safe environment for staff, clients & stakeholders
Implement health and safety practices that protect everyone in the care setting.
✓ Promote dignity, choice & empowerment of residents
Uphold person-centred values that respect the rights and autonomy of every client.
✓ Encourage correct use of care equipment & assistive devices
Guide clients in the safe and appropriate use of equipment to support independence.
✓ Respond effectively to the changing needs of clients
Adapt care approaches as client needs evolve to ensure consistent quality of support.
Module Assessment
Assignment: 40% | Skills: 60%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N2770
✓ Examine work organisations & career opportunities in healthcare
Explore the structure of healthcare organisations and identify potential career pathways.
✓ Understand the rights & responsibilities of employees and employers
Learn the legal and professional obligations that govern workplace relationships in healthcare.
✓ Develop a career plan & skills audit for the healthcare sector
Identify your strengths, plan your career direction, and address skill gaps for the workplace.
✓ Participate effectively in work experience
Demonstrate punctuality, independent working, and professional conduct during placement.
✓ Reflect on workplace experiences & supervisor feedback
Use reflective practice and mentor feedback to evaluate and improve your performance.
✓ Explore future education, training & employment options
Use insights from work experience to plan your next steps in nursing or healthcare.
Module Assessment
Portfolio: 60% | Skills: 40%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N1356
✓ Analyse current issues in communications & information technology
Explore how communications technology shapes modern workplace and personal interactions.
✓ Use appropriate non-verbal & visual communication
Understand how body language, tone, and visual tools support effective communication.
✓ Develop research, verbal, listening & reading skills
Build and apply core communication competencies throughout the course and in the workplace.
✓ Create awareness of legislation in a personal & work context
Understand the key legal frameworks that apply to communication in healthcare settings.
Module Assessment
Portfolio: 60% | Skills: 40%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N0690
✓ Understand the necessity for safe codes of practice
Learn why standardised safety codes are essential in protecting staff and clients in healthcare.
✓ Keep up to date with health & safety legislation
Understand current Irish health and safety law and your obligations as a healthcare professional.
✓ Develop proactive health & safety skills at work
Build practical skills to anticipate and prevent safety issues before they arise.
✓ Create awareness of risks associated with the workplace
Identify common hazards in healthcare environments and understand how to manage them.
✓ Develop risk identification, prevention & reporting skills
Apply self-accountability and systematic reporting to promote a culture of safety at work.
Module Assessment
Assignment: 60% | Examination: 40%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N1794
✓ Promote quality of life, self-esteem, respect, privacy & dignity
Discuss the support worker's role in upholding the key values that underpin palliative care.
✓ Apply a person-centred approach in the last days of life
Deliver holistic, supportive care that promotes safety, dignity, comfort, and respect at end of life.
✓ Work sensitively with the dying person & their family
Support both the patient and their significant others with empathy, compassion, and professionalism.
✓ Use the range of skills required in end of life care
Apply practical and interpersonal skills to provide dignified, inclusive, and holistic care.
Module Assessment
Learner Record: 70% | Assignment: 30%
Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Code: 5N3769
Dorset College Dublin has arrangements in place to ensure the Protection of Enrolled Learners (PEL) in the event of a cessation of programmes by the college.
• Submit the online application in 3 minutes
• Photo ID not required to begin your application
• Our team will guide you through the next steps
• Start even if your documents aren't ready yet
• Admissions support at every stage
• Contact us at [email protected]
• Assessment via assignments, examinations, projects & practical skills demonstration
• Full Award: QQI Nursing Studies Level 5 Major Award (Code: 5M4349)
• Students also complete a Certificate in Manual Handling
• Pass: 50%–64%
• Merit: 65%–79%
• Distinction: 80%–100%
• Graduates are highly sought after by employers in the public and private sectors
• Career opportunities in nursing homes, hospitals and agencies
• Roles available in community care settings
• Strong pathways for further education at higher education institutions and universities
• Non-refundable deposit of €150 to secure your place
• Balance paid in full before the course starts or split into 4 instalments
• Deposit: €150.00 — secures your place
• 1st Instalment: €462.50 — 21/07/2026
• 2nd Instalment: €462.50 — 21/08/2026
• 3rd Instalment: €462.50 — 19/09/2026
• 4th Instalment: €462.50 — 22/10/2026
Q1
Do I need any prior experience to enrol?
None at all. This course is designed for complete beginners and builds the knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in healthcare support from the ground up.
Q2
What certification will I receive?
A QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support (Code: 5M4339), awarded by QQI. Students also receive a Certificate in Manual Handling upon completion.
Q3
How is the course delivered?
This is an on-campus programme delivered at Dorset College Dublin, combining classroom-based learning with hands-on practical skills development and work placement experience.
Q4
How long is the course and when does it start?
One academic year, delivered in a structured full-time format. Contact our admissions team for the current start date and intake details.
Q5
What does it cost and are there payment options?
A €150 non-refundable deposit secures your place, with the outstanding balance payable in full or split across up to 4 flexible instalments. No hidden fees.
Q6
What topics will I cover?
Anatomy and physiology, patient care, healthcare theory, communications, health and safety, care of the older person, palliative care, and work placement in a clinical setting.
Q7
Is a QQI Level 5 qualification recognised by employers?
Yes. QQI qualifications are the national standard in Ireland and are recognised by employers across the public and private healthcare sectors.
Q8
What careers does this course lead to?
Graduates commonly enter roles as Healthcare Assistants in hospitals, nursing homes, community care settings, and agencies — with opportunities to travel and work internationally.
Q9
Will I have direct access to tutors?
Yes. Every module is delivered by experienced healthcare professionals. You will have direct access to tutors throughout the programme for guidance, feedback, and support.
Q10
How large are the classes?
Dorset College maintains deliberately small class sizes to ensure quality learning, meaningful tutor interaction, and a more personalised experience than larger institutions typically offer.
Q11
What makes this course stand out?
A nationally recognised QQI Major Award, expert-led tuition, hands-on work placement, and a Certificate in Manual Handling — all delivered in a supportive, small-class environment at a recognised third-level institution in Dublin city centre.
Q12
How do I apply?
Complete the online application form in under three minutes. A €150 deposit secures your place, with flexible payment options available for the remainder of the course fee.
