The National Framework of Qualifications
We thought we would take a quick look at the The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Why? Its a really useful framework that is used to classify all kinds of learning in Ireland. The Qualifications Authority, the body responsible for creating and maintaining the framework, describe it as "The NFQ is a system of ten levels, based on standards of knowledge, skill and competence and incorporates awards made for all kinds of learning, wherever it is gained".
The big advantage of having the NFQ, is that it is now possible to compare and contrast the level and standard of different qualifications. This is important for all kinds of reasons - it helps candidates to choose between courses, employers to assess skills, etc.
The Qualifications Authority has produced a fan diagram which covers the 10 levels in the framework. It looks as follows:
The 10 Level National Framework of Qualifications Explained
Level 1 Certificate - think basic literacy and numeracy. Awards at this level are provided by FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council).
Level 2 Certificate - above level 1 but still at a basic level.
Level 3 Certificate - this level enables the students to gain certification for specific personal skills, practical skills and knowledge. Think computer skills. FETAC is the awarding body.
Level 4 Certificate - vocational and personal skills. Level 4 may lead to the attainment of a Level 5 certificate. Think Sales Certificate Courses
Level 5 Certificate - demonstrates a broad knowledge base. Programmes are vocational in focus and must equip candidates with a general understanding of the subject matter. Ex. Practical Home Care Skills
Level 6 Certificate (Advanced Certificate / Higher Certificate) - again, vocational focus but tend to be supervisory in nature. Think "Advanced Certificates". FETAC, HETAC (Higher Education and Training Awards Council) and the Institutes of Technology are the awarding bodies. Ex. FETAC Level 6 Childcare Management
Level 7 Certificate (Ordinary Bachelors Degree) - awarded by the Institutes of Technology and the Universities. Programmes must be 3 years in duration. Think third level degree (undergraduate degree programmes). Ex. BSc in Food and Health Science
Level 8 Certificate (Honours Bachelors Degree / Level 8 Higher Diploma) - think courses 1 level above standard degree courses. Awarded by the Institutes of Technology and the Universities. Ex. BA (Hons) in Journalism (Level 8)
Level 9 Certificate (Masters Degree / Level 9 Postgraduate Diploma) - entry is restricted to honours degree holders. Programmes are usually 1-2 years in duration and maybe be taught or research based. Awarded by the Institutes of Technology and the Universities. Ex. Post Graduate Diploma in International Law
Level 10 Certificate (Doctoral Degree / Level 10 Higher Doctoral Degree) - Level 10 is reserved for career progression to advanced levels of academia and research. Assessment is by the awarding body for each individual learner. Awarded by the Institutes of Technology and the Universities. Ex. Doctorate in Psychotherapy
The Awarding Bodies in the NFQ
FETAC - The Further Education & Training Awards Council is the awarding body for training and education in Ireland. FETAC covers awards levels 1-6 in the NFQ.
SEC - The State Examinations Commission. Awards for schools (ex. Junior and Leaving Certificates). Its awards are included in level 3 - 5 inclusive.
HETAC - The Higher Education and Training Awards Council is the national awarding body for training and education. It covers levels 6 - 10 in the NFQ.
Institutes of Technology - there are 14 Institutes of Technology in Ireland: Athlone Institute of Technology, Dublin Institute of Technology , Institute of Technology Carlow, Waterford Institute of Technology, Cork Institute of Technology, Dundalk Institute of Technology , Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design & Technology, Institute of Technology Tralee, Limerick Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology Tallaght, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology Blanchardstown, Institute of Technology Sligo, Letterkenny Institute of Technology. The IT's award at levels 6 - 10 in the NFQ.
Universities - there are 7 Universities in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, NUI Galway, University of Limerick, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Dublin City University. The Universities award at levels 7-10.
