Higher Level Education
The decision to return to third level education after a break from formal learning or entering it for the first time as a mature student is a significant one. Mature students bring life experience and determination with them. There is a wide range of options open to learners wishing to return to third level education.
Universities, Institutes of Technology and private colleges offer courses at higher level. Three kinds of qualifications can be gained at this level: Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees. Courses are available on a full-time and part-time basis. If you are over 23, you are generally regarded as a mature student. Entry requirements (you may not need your Leaving Certificate) vary from course to course and from institution to institution.
The Central Applications Office (CAO) manages entry to undergraduate courses at Irish universities. Most Higher Education Institutions (HEI's) will require you to apply through the CAO, some colleges require you to apply directly and others may require you to do both. Many HEI's also require prospective students to attend an interview.
For further information contact the Mature Student Officer in the institution where you are planning to take your course or alternatively download the Information Booklet which contains a full listing of the main third level institutions in Ireland.
