Imagine dreaming of a nursing career like Kate Roche from Gort, Co Galway, but facing challenges with college entry requirements. Fortunately, there’s an excellent alternative route available. The new education programme from Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB ), in partnership with Atlantic Technological University (ATU ), offers a way to earn a degree without the traditional barriers.
Here's how the programme works: With GRETB, you can start your degree locally, gain practical skills and real-world experience, and then complete your degree at an ATU campus of your choice. The courses are held in person at GRETB Further Education and Training Centres, following the same schedule and curriculum as the first year at ATU. You’ll also get to attend some practical lectures on an ATU campus during your first year.
One major benefit is that the first year is completely free. Additionally, you may be eligible to apply for funding through the SUSI Maintenance Grant or Back to Education Allowance for subsequent years.
Consider Kate’s story. After not meeting the necessary points for nursing in her Leaving Cert in 2019, Kate refused to give up on her dream. She explored other paths such as events management, worked in retail, and even gained experience abroad. After hearing about a new degree route on the radio which helps individuals pursue a degree without the pressure of CAO points, Kate began her new educational journey.
With the support of her family and GRETB, Kate started at the Further Education Centre in Dunmore, Co Galway. She completed a QQI Level 5 Award in Nursing Studies, which qualifies her to move directly into the General Nursing Degree programme at ATU. Kate found the past year enjoyable, appreciating the small class sizes and excellent support from GRETB.
“I enjoyed the course and found it a great taster for nursing before committing to four years,” Kate said. “The work placement was really good, giving me a clear understanding of nursing during my five-week stint at Ennis General Hospital. I learned so much and saw my potential future.”
Kate’s course is one of four offered through GRETB and ATU, including:
· Bachelor of Science (Honours ) in Sustainable Engineering Technologies (NFQ Level 8 ).
· Bachelor of Science in Industrial Laboratory Science (NFQ Level 7 ).
· Bachelor of Business (Honours ) in Business (NFQ Level 8 ).
· Bachelor of Science (Hons ) in General Nursing.
For anyone aiming for higher education but feeling restricted by traditional routes, Kate's story shows there is a pathway. The GRETB and ATU partnership provides a practical, supportive, and accessible way to achieve your educational goals.
It’s never too late to follow your dreams. For more information, visit www.gretb.ie, call 1800 140 242, or email [email protected].
