Bridge to Higher Education

NFQ Level 5

This course is a pathway to university and will help you build the skills and confidence you need to take the next step.

Available Locations:

Letterkenny

(Ref: 522663)

Starts: 14/09/2026

37 Weeks

Apply Now

Letterkenny

(Ref: 522663)

Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.

What You'll Learn

This course is designed to give you the practical skills and confidence to be able to work independently and under supervision in a science laboratory. It is also a bridge to higher education so you can apply to a wide range of university courses.

During the course, you will learn how to:

Understand the basics of biology, chemistry and physics.

Use science knowledge in practical laboratory activities.

Carry out laboratory experiments safely and correctly.

Use laboratory equipment and follow instructions with confidence.

Record, organise and understand scientific results and information.

Use computers and technology to support your studies and laboratory work.

Communicate your ideas clearly in written assignments, presentations and group work.

Develop study skills, time management and organisation for higher education.

Work well on your own and as part of a team.

Build problem-solving skills and learn from feedback.

Prepare for progression to university, further education or employment.

You will also take part in a practical laboratory placement, hosted in the science laboratories at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Letterkenny.

You may also be able to apply for a three-week work experience project in a European city through the Erasmus+ Work Placement programme.

On successful completion of this course, you will receive the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 5 Certificate in Laboratory Techniques (5M3807).

Timetable & Modules

Timetable:

Timetable
Day	Morning	Afternoon
Mon	✔	✔
Tue	✔	✔
Wed	✔	✔
Thu	✔	✔
Fri	✔

The course is delivered, in-person – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and a half day on Fridays.

Module	Title
5N2751	Laboratory Skills
5N2746	Biology
5N2747	Chemistry
5N1460	Physics
5N1833	Mathematics
5N0749	Anatomy and Physiology
5N0690	Communications
5N2985	Personal and Professional Development
5N1794	Safety and Health at Work

Progression / Career

This course will help you build the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed for university, further training or a career in science.

Some university progression options include:

Bachelor of Science and Engineering programmes at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Letterkenny;

Bachelor of Education (Hons) in Home Economics with concurrent Teacher Education

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Nutrition, Food and Business Management at ATU St Angela’s, Sligo

Paramedic Science, Nursing, Science, Engineering and Arts at Ulster University

Other courses in Biomedical Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Biotechnology and Environmental Science at universities nationwide.

Entry Requirements

To succeed in this course, you need to have completed the Leaving Certificate/LCAP/LCVP Examination or have Level 4 knowledge, skills, and competence on the National Framework of Qualifications.

Non-native English speakers must have at least a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL).

Eligibility

Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland. For more information, check out our eligibility section.

Cost / Fees

We will talk to you about the possible low/no cost fees options during your application process.

Share This Course:

Real Students, Real Results!

While the focus for most of us on the course was achieving the D licence, there were lots of extras like First Aid, Tourism Visitor Care and Gluais training which I found very useful when I went looking for a job as I had more than just the D licence to offer to an employer.

Dylan Robinson

Qualified Tour Bus Driver, Driving With Tourism Graduate,

“I couldn’t recommend further education and training with Donegal College enough as it provides a great way back into education, to further education or to get a job.”

Shannon Shelby Driscoll

Qualified Teacher and Early Childhood Care and Education Graduate

“I thought there was never a chance for me to go and do nursing. I left school early because I became a mum at a young age and I didn’t have a Leaving Certificate. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone.”

Elaine Tinney

Tertiary Degree Access Route into General Nursing (B.Sc. Hons) Recent Graduate

“The support started from the reception, when you come to Donegal College it is a special atmosphere.”

Yuliia Vaniukova

ACCA Graduate

“With a small class we were able to get comfortable around each other and we were never afraid to ask a question.”

Miranda Darnell

Animal Care Graduate

“It has brought me on so much to believe that any of us are capable of something in the right environment and with people supporting you.”

Lisa Doherty

Pathway to Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning Studies, Graduate

Need Help Applying For a Course at Donegal College?

If you are unsure about what course to do or need help in finding out which level is most appropriate for you then our admissions team are here to help you….

Courses FAQ's

Who can apply for Donegal College courses?

Our courses are open to school leavers, lifelong learners, job seekers, employees, and employers looking to upskill or reskill.

How do I apply for a course?

You can make your applications for full-time and part-time courses online; you can start the process here on the Donegal College website. Click ‘APPLY‘ on the course of your choice; this redirects you to Fetchcourses.ie, where your application will be processed using the FETCH Courses website and system.

If you haven’t signed up for a FETCH account, you’ll be required to do so first; this is a one-time setup.

Are the Donegal College courses accredited?

Yes. Many of our courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), typically Levels 4–6, as well as awards from ILM, City & Guilds, and other industry-recognised bodies.

Where do the courses take place?

Courses are delivered across Donegal at one of our 19 Donegal College campuses, certain courses are delivered in community venues in your local area, various courses are delivered online or through blended learning, and training can be offered on-site at your business, depending on the course.

Can I apply for an Apprenticeship?

The first step is to secure a job with an approved apprentice employer. An Apprenticeship is a three-way contract of employment between you, your employer and SOLAS, with on-the-job and off-the-job training delivered in phases. Full details are available on: www.apprenticeship.ie

To find out more about becoming an apprentice or an approved apprentice employer please contact our Apprenticeship Services Team: Tel: 074 9120500 or Email: apprenticeship@donegaletb.ie