Building on the success of previous tertiary programmes at Limerick and Clare ETB, a new pathway is opening doors for students aspiring to careers in mental health care. Flexible, supportive pathways have shown how learners can achieve their full potential.
The first cohort of tertiary graduates at Limerick and Clare ETB, celebrated a milestone when students from Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET completed Stage 1 of the Level 8 Tertiary Degree Programmes in Business Studies and Mobile and Web Computing. The initiative demonstrated how partnerships between Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), coordinated through the National Tertiary Office, can create inclusive and accessible pathways for learners moving from Further Education and Training (FET) into higher education.
These included a Business Studies programme at the College of FET, Ennis Campus in Clare and a Mobile and Web Computing programme at the College of FET, Mulgrave Street Campus in Limerick. 22 students enrolled across the two programmes, with a total of 16 completing the first year (stage one) of their degree.
Kevin Donaghy from Shannon, Co. Clare.
Kevin Donaghy from Shannon, Co. Clare was one of these inspiring graduates, whose story shows of the life-changing power of tertiary pathways. Initially studying at the University of Limerick with an interest in prosthetics, Kevin realised the course wasn’t the right fit. After two years with the National Learning Network, Kevin found a better match through the Tertiary Degree Programme offered by Limerick and Clare ETB in partnership with the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).
The programme allowed Kevin to begin his BSc in Computing, Mobile and Web Development at Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET, Mulgrave Street Campus, benefiting from hands-on learning, continuous assessment, and personalised support. He then progressed to TUS in Moylish to complete the remaining three years of his degree, fully prepared for a career in software engineering or further study.
Building on successes like these, Limerick and Clare ETB is proud to introduce the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing, a comprehensive five-year programme.
Key Features of the Mental Health Nursing Programme
- Structured Pathway: Year 1 at Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET Ennis Campus (QQI Level 5), then four years at TUS Athlone Campus).
- Professional Qualification: Graduates earn a BSc (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing, enabling registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI).
- Curriculum: Foundational nursing skills, human growth, anatomy, physiology, and clinical placements in hospitals and community settings.
- Flexible Working: Short/long shifts, nights, weekends, or a combination.
- Recovery-Focused Care: Work as part of a multidisciplinary team with doctors, therapists, social workers, and psychiatrists.
- Career Opportunities: Registered Psychiatric Nurse roles in hospitals, home care, and specialist areas, with strong career progression and graduate study options.
- High Demand & Salary: Starting salary €38,000, reflecting strong demand for mental health professionals.
Start your Mental Health Nursing Degree at Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET Ennis Campus (QQI Level 5), then proceed to four years at TUS Athlone Campus).
This programme is ideal for students passionate about supporting mental health, delivering person-centred care, and making a real difference in people’s lives.
The mental health nursing course continues the mission of tertiary education in Ireland: breaking down barriers, providing accessible pathways, and enabling students from diverse backgrounds to succeed.
For more information, visit collegeofFET.ie/tertiary or email tertiaryoffice@lcetb.ie.
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