Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Mechanisation)

•  Teagasc College Prospectus (2025) (pdf)

Entry Requirements

Students who have completed the Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture, or equivalent course, are eligible to apply. Selection for places may include an interview.

Course Aims

This course provides young people the knowledge and skills required for:

• Working in the farm machinery industry e.g., agricultural contractors, fabricators and machinery sales, etc
• Running an agricultural contracting business

Location

This course is offered at Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry, Co Limerick, Ballyhaise Agricultural College,  Mountbellew Agricultural College and Clonakilty Agricultural Clonakilty.

In Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry, Mountbellew Agricultural College, and Clonakilty 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. 

In Ballyhaise Agricultural College, there is a focus on Grassland Machinery and agricultural contracting, with students undertaking practical tasks such as reseeding, slurry and fertiliser application. Learners are trained to use technology such as GPS and tractor diagnostics. 

Course Structure and Content

Course content includes maintenance and repair of machinery, vehicle electrical principles, workshop practices, crop management and production equipment, farm vehicle maintenance, work practice, business management, business planning and information technology.

On successful completion of the programme students are awarded a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture. This award meets the training requirements for Stamp Duty Exemption and DAFM Schemes.

Progression

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

Progression is available through the higher education links scheme. To get full details of the range of Higher Education institutions and programmes available under the scheme, please contact the admissions office of the individual Higher Education institution or visit www.cao.ie.

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

Many graduates progress into employment in the agricultural machinery sector.