The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and Limerick and Clare ETB have announced the addition of a new programme to its existing Tertiary Degree pathways partnership. The Tertiary Programme in Mental Health Nursing is part of a strategic alliance involving Limerick and Clare ETB, Tipperary ETB, Longford and Westmeath ETB (LWETB), and Laois and Offaly ETB (LOETB). Developed in collaboration with the National Tertiary Office (NTO), this innovative programme will provide a clear, non-CAO progression route for students pursuing a degree in Mental Health Nursing.
The new pathway is described as serving to be a vital “bridge” for Further Education and Training (FET) students, offering guaranteed progression into higher education upon successful completion of their initial NFQ Level 5 QQI Major Award in Nursing Studies.
Speaking at the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the partner ETB’s and TUS, Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of TUS, said: “This partnership is the result of extensive collaboration between TUS, our ETB partners, the HEA, and SOLAS to create a new professional pathway for the next generation of mental health nurses. By offering the Mental Health Nursing degree pathway through these four ETBs, it ensures students have access to continuing their professional healthcare careers and to developing the fundamental nursing skills and clinical competencies needed to become a registered Mental Health Nurse.”
Starting in September 2026, learners can begin their journey toward a career in Mental Health Nursing at one of four regional hubs, including Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET – Ennis Campus.
Bernadette Cullen, Chief Executive of Limerick and Clare ETB, said: “This new pathway is a very welcome development for learners in Limerick and Clare, giving them the opportunity to begin their studies locally at our College of FET – Ennis Campus and progress on to a degree in Mental Health Nursing. It is a strong example of how partnership can open up real opportunities for our communities and for the future of healthcare in the region.”
The aim of the programme is to provide students with an opportunity to learn the essential knowledge, skills and competencies associated with mental health nursing, enabling them to provide care across a variety of healthcare environments.
Tanya Jones, Deputy Director of the National Tertiary Office, said: “Students are telling us how tertiary pathways are changing their lives – not just in terms of qualifications, but in confidence, purpose, and possibility. They speak about pride, about hope, and about finally being able to pursue a career they have always dreamed of, particularly in areas as vital and socially impactful as Mental Health Nursing.”
The Mental Health Nursing Tertiary Degree is five years in duration:
- Year 1: Delivered in this region at Limerick and Clarel ETB’s College of FET – Ennis Campus. Students who successfully complete this year will be awarded an NFQ Level 5 QQI Major Award in Nursing Studies.
- Years 2-5: Students progress directly to TUS Athlone for a four-year degree programme leading to a BSc (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing.
Graduates will develop fundamental nursing skills and clinical competencies, becoming eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI).
Applications for this and other Tertiary Programmes through Limerick and Clare ETB are now open on collegeofFET.ie/tertiary.
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