You’ll study the Nutritional Sciences International Foundation Programme at OnCampus Ireland in Maynooth, building the academic skills needed for undergraduate study in Ireland.
On successful completion, you receive a QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies and progress to partner undergraduate pathways (subject to meeting progression requirements).
Who is this programme for?
This programme is designed for international students who want a structured route into undergraduate degrees related to nutritional sciences and related health/biological sciences in Ireland.
How long is the programme?
The programme runs for seven months, typically split into two semesters (12–13 teaching weeks each) plus an examination week. You will study on average around 25 hours per week, including English language tuition.
- Award: QQI Level 5 Specific Purpose Certificate in International Foundation Studies
- NFQ level: Level 5 (EQF alignment: Level 4)
- Duration: 7 months (two semesters of 12–13 teaching weeks + examination week)
- Weekly study: ~25 hours per week (on average)
- Delivery location: OnCampus Ireland, Maynooth
- Delivery format: In-person classroom-based study
- English language: English is compulsory and integrated into the timetable (with additional support where required)
- Progression: Designed to support progression to partner undergraduate programmes in Ireland (subject to progression requirements)
- Credits: Not specified in the record
- Tuition fees: Not specified in the record
- Start dates / application deadlines: Not specified in the record
Programme Structure
The programme is delivered over seven months and is organised into two semesters, combining science and mathematics foundations with academic English and study support.
Core modules
- English
- Intercultural Studies and Communications
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
Assessment and progression
You will complete coursework and assessments throughout the programme and sit examinations at the end of the academic period. Successful completion leads to the QQI Level 5 award and is intended to support progression to partner undergraduate pathways (subject to meeting the relevant progression criteria).
Note: The full curriculum details are provided by the programme provider and may include additional learning activities and assessment components.
Academic requirements
Specific GRE/GMAT/GPA requirements are not listed for this programme.
Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education that prepares them for foundation-level study in science and mathematics. Final eligibility is determined by the programme provider.
English requirements
Minimum accepted level: Council of Europe B1+ / IGCSE C / IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent).
IELTS: Overall 5.0, with no less than 5.0 in the written component and 4.5 in listening, speaking, and reading.
English support
English language tuition is compulsory and is integrated into the academic timetable. Additional support may be provided if you need extra help.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Age: Applicants must normally be 17 years old and will be 18 by the end of the programme.
Documents (typical)
While the record does not list a full document checklist, applicants are generally asked to provide:
- Proof of prior education (certificates/transcripts)
- English language test results (if applicable)
- Passport/ID
- Any additional documents requested by the provider
Insurance and travel
Before travelling, ensure you have appropriate health and travel insurance for studying abroad. Insurance requirements can vary by institution and country.
Work rights after graduation (Ireland)
Check for any work restrictions
After completing your programme in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish immigration rules in force at the time of application.
- Eligibility depends on your course level and award: Post-study work options are typically linked to completing an eligible programme and receiving the relevant award.
- Timing matters: You must apply within the required timeframe after graduation (deadlines are set by the immigration authority).
- Rules can change: Work permission duration, conditions, and eligibility criteria may be updated by Irish authorities.
- Maintain compliance: You must follow all visa and registration requirements while in Ireland.
For the most accurate guidance for your specific situation (including whether your QQI Level 5 award qualifies under the current scheme), check the latest information from the Irish immigration authorities and the programme provider.