Agricultural Mechanisation

This training will equip the graduate with the knowledge and skills required for working in the farm machinery industry.

There are two specialist streams offered for this programme in three locations:

1. In Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry, and Mountbellew Agricultural College, the focus is on preparing the graduate for a career in areas such as an agricultural mechanic, agricultural contracting, fabrication and machinery sales. 
2. In Ballyhaise Agricultural College, there is a focus on Grassland Machinery with students undertaking practical tasks such as reseeding, slurry and fertiliser application. Learners are trained to use
   technology such as GPS and tractor diagnostics 

Programmes:

The recommended training for someone seeking a career in the Machinery and Mechanisation sector is to complete the 

• Teagasc Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture Programme plus
• Teagasc Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Mechanisation)

Duration: The Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture is one year, and the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Mechanisation) is one year.

Qualifications: These programmes are validated by QQI and successful completion leads to:

• Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture Award  ( 5M20454) and 
• Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture  (6M20486).

Entry Requirements: There is a separate application process for each programme. Applicants must be 17 years old or over on 1st January following entry to year one. Students must complete the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture, or equivalent courseto meet the entry requirements for the Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Mechanisation). Applicants with relevant prior learning and/or life experience will also be considered.

Application Process: The initial application should be made for the Teagasc Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture Programme. Apply Online Places on the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Mechanisation may be limited. Where places are limited applicants may be required to undergo an interview and a skills assessment.

Location

This course is offered at:

Ballyhaise Agricultural College

Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry, Co Limerick

Mountbellew Agricultural College

Progression

Learners who successfully complete the Advanced Certificate in Agriculture may progress to the Farm Manager Apprenticeship providing they meet the employment criteria.

Progression is available through the higher education links scheme or through advanced entry. Please contact the relevant higher education institute for further information.

Advanced entry into higher education: Holders of a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture can apply for advanced entry into certain degree programmes. Places are limited. Additional information can be accessed via the relevant college website.

Employment: Many graduates progress into employment in roles in the machinery sector.

What will I Study?

Sample content from the Teagasc Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture Programme (* Choice of module will be at the discretion of the college / centre):

Sample content from Teagasc Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Mechanisation). Electives allow for specialisation in grassland machinery or general machine maintenance.