Teagasc Professional Diploma in Dairy Farm Management

How to apply

Before you apply for this course please ensure that you fully read this information. 
Note: Incomplete applications cannot be processed

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ

Application Fee

There is no application fee for this course.

Supporting Documents Required

You need five additional pieces of information which you have to upload on the Teagasc Student Portal. Your application cannot be processed without them.

1. Personal Statement (250 Words)
   NB: Prepare your personal statement in advanced of completing your application. Copy the text of your statement and paste it in to the applicable area.
   • Explain why you are interested in this course
   • Why you think this course is right for you
   • What your career plans are
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   Upload an MS Word version of your CV where requested. Ensure that you fill in the description box before uploading.
3. Proof of your PPSN
   Scan or take a photo of your official PPSN card (your PPSN can also be found on various tax documents, on correspondence from a social welfare or tax office etc). Upload the document where requested.
4. Scan of your original Birth Certificate
   Scan or take a photo of your original birth certificate and upload the document where requested.
5. A recent photograph of yourself
   Upload a recent passport format photo of yourself where applicable.

Submitting Your Application

Your application will not be received until you click 'submit' at the end of the form.

Application review process

Your application will be checked to ensure that you have included all of the information and documentation requested. Incomplete applications cannot be processed.

Application Status

Login to the Teagasc Student Portal to check for updates on your application. Please also remember to check your emails.

Interview

You may be invited to attend an interview. Please check the Teagasc Student Portal and your emails regularly for this invitation.

• The Stepping Stones booklet gives an indication of the career pathways available for graduates of this programme.

• Teagasc College Prospectus 2022 (pdf)

Entry Requirements

Applicants must possess a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture or an equivalent major agricultural award. Applicants will be shortlisted and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed prior to selection for entry to the programme. 

Course Aims

This Professional Diploma (Level 7 Special Purpose Award) is promoted as the industry recognised award for professional dairy farm managers. The programme is unique in bringing together an integrated team of highly specialised Teagasc staff including College Lecturers, Moorepark Research staff, Dairy and Financial Knowledge Transfer Specialists with input from guest lecturers including commercial dairy farmers and the dairy industry.

Location

Students complete two years professional work experience on approved progressive commercial dairy farms. Students also attend block release periods at Kildalton College and at the Teagasc Animal & Grassland, Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark.

Course Structure and Content

This 40 credit programme consists of four modules:

• Growing your Dairy Business
• Dairy Technology
• Dairy Farm Management
• Dairy Professional Work Experience

The programme is unique in that students will complete two years professional work experience on approved progressive commercial dairy farms. For three consecutive days per month students will attend block release days in Teagasc Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre Moorepark or Kildalton College.

Career Prospects

This course is aimed at those intending manage commercial dairy farm units as an owner, partner or employed manager.