Many paths lead from the foot of the mountain, but at the peak we all gaze at the single bright moon – Ikkyu
Equity of access to higher education has always been a priority. We know that to truly serve our stakeholders we must facilitate communities in creating their own future in education. We aim to provide many educational pathways to ensure all can reach their peak.
Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS)
TUS has long recognised and accredited skills and knowledge obtained by learners on further education and training (FET) programmes. We participate in HELS, established to give learners the opportunity to use their Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 5 or 6 major award to apply, through the CAO, for a place in the first year of a higher education programme.
Applicants MUST check both the individual Higher Education institution and the CAO websites to ensure they meet any special or essential requirements specified. Once all of the above requirements have been met, a learner can apply for a place on the linked higher education programme.
The learner is then assessed as part of the normal CAO application process on the basis of FET QQI points.
See How To Apply – Year 1 below for full details of HELS.
FET Progression Pathways
In addition to HELS, TUS has established links with several partner Colleges of Further Education. We offer preferential entry to applicants who hold a QQI L5 or 6 major award from one of our partner colleges, given that the applicant satisfies the certain entry criteria.
- Eligible applicants are given additional points or, in many cases, are guaranteed a place in Year 1 of their chosen programme.
- Offers to applicants under the FET Progression Pathways Scheme are made in advance of Round 1, which gives more time to organise accommodation and make travel arrangements.
- Any QQI L5 or 6 major award from partner Colleges of Further Education is eligible for consideration for a place on any TUS programme. The award does not have to be in the cognitive area.
- All TUS programmes welcome applications under the FET Progression Pathways Scheme, some programmes may have additional requirements such as: art portfolio assessment, interview, Garda vetting, etc.
- Applicants with a QQI FET Level 6 award in a cognitive area may be eligible for advanced entry into Year 2 of relevant programmes.
Further Education providers who wish to discuss a Progression Agreement with TUS are invited to contact our Director of Progression Pathways: Maura.Clancy@tus.ie