Pathway to Healthcare and Nursing Studies

NFQ Level 4

This Pathway course helps you to develop knowledge and skills in the areas of healthcare and nursing. It will also help you build confidence and personal development to prepare for the workplace.

Available Locations:

Glengad

(Ref: 506000)

Starts: 07/09/2026

38 Weeks

Apply Now

Glengad

(Ref: 506000)

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

What You'll Learn

You will have the opportunity to learn and develop skills in:

English and Communications: Develop effective communication skills in English.

Food and Nutrition: Understand the principles of nutrition and how to apply them to maintain a healthy diet.

Personal Effectiveness: Enhance personal skills such as time management, goal setting, and self-assessment.

Work Experience: Gain practical experience in a work environment, developing skills relevant to future employment.

Human Biology: Understand the structure and function of the human body and its systems.

Healthcare: Learn about healthcare practices and principles.

Information Technology Skills: Gain proficiency in using various information technology tools and applications.

Mathematics: Develop mathematical skills and knowledge applicable to everyday life and further education.

Environmental Sustainability Awareness: Learn about environmental issues and sustainable practices to promote environmental stewardship.

This Pathway course includes interactive activities inside and outside of the classroom:

Field Trips: Educational visits to enhance learning.

Guest Speakers: Insights from industry professionals.

Workshops: Interactive sessions to develop practical skills.

On successful completion of this course, you will receive the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 4 Certificate in General Learning.

Timetable & Modules

Timetable:

The course will have a range of field trips, guest speakers, and workshops and will run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30 am -2:00 pm with a half day on Fridays.

Day	Morning	Afternoon
Monday	✓	✓
Tuesday	✓	✓
Wednesday	✓	✓
Thursday	✓	✓
Friday	✓

Module	Title
4N0689	English And Communications Level 4
4N2830	Food And Nutrition
4N1125	Information Technology Skills
4N1987	Mathematics
4N1132	Personal Effectiveness
4N1168	Work Experience
4N2910	Human Biology
4N3776	Healthcare
4N21810	Environmental Sustainability Awareness

Progression / Career

After completing this course, students gain key skills. You can then move into various roles across different healthcare and nursing settings. This course also lays the groundwork for further education and training in specific healthcare ad nursing areas.

Entry Requirements

Students must have level 3 skills and knowledge from the National Qualifications Framework (NFQ) to succeed in this course. They can show this through formal education or relevant life and work experience.

Students must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to gain the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.

According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), non-native English speakers need a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.

Eligibility

Non-EU/EEA applicants need permission to work in Ireland. For more details, see our eligibility section.

Cost / Fees

You may be eligible for reduced course fees or a fee waiver (i.e. no cost).

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