Chemical Engineering (NFQ Level 8) – Pre-Master’s Programme is a one-year pathway designed to prepare international students for postgraduate study in Ireland.
Delivered at UniHaven College (Maynooth) by OnCampus Ireland in partnership with University of Limerick, the programme strengthens academic English, research skills, and study readiness for a Master’s degree.
- Level: NFQ Level 8 (Pre-Master’s)
- Duration: 1 year
- Delivery location: UniHaven College, Maynooth
- Delivery format: In-person (on-campus)
- Programme focus: Academic English, research methods, and engineering study readiness
- Progression: Guaranteed progression to a suitable Master’s programme at partner universities (subject to meeting any additional requirements)
- Language of instruction: English
- English entry requirement: IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent), with no single element below 5.0
Application and start dates: Please check the programme website for the latest intake dates and application deadlines.
Programme Structure
The programme is delivered over one academic year and combines academic language development with research training and engineering-relevant study skills.
- Academic English Language Development
- Research and Digital Literacy Skills
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
- Personal Development for Employability
- Working in Teams
- Undergraduate Research Dissertation
Assessment approach: You will complete a mix of formative and summative assessments across modules, designed to reflect the types of evaluation used in Irish postgraduate study.
Curriculum access: For the full curriculum and module details, please refer to the programme website.
Academic requirements
Students should hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to an Irish NFQ Level 7 qualification in a relevant subject from a recognised university.
A minimum second-class honours (or equivalent) is required for progression to an Irish university Master’s programme. Other grades and qualifications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Progression partners may be consulted at application stage to confirm sufficient subject relevance.
English requirements
IELTS
The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).
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Other requirements
General requirements
English requirements:
- IELTS 5.5 / CEFR B2 (or equivalent), with no single element below 5.0.
Academic requirements:
- Completed bachelor’s degree equivalent to an Irish NFQ Level 7 qualification in a relevant subject, with a minimum second-class honours grade to progress to an Irish university Master’s programme.
- Other qualifications and grades may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Documents: You will typically be asked to submit academic transcripts and degree certificates, plus your English test results (if applicable). Exact document requirements may vary by applicant profile.
Deadlines: Please check the programme website for the latest application deadlines and intake dates.
Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Limerick and/or in Ireland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit programme website
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Highlights"
Post-study work rights in Ireland (general guidance):
Graduates of eligible programmes in Ireland may be able to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish immigration rules in force at the time of application.
Key points to consider:
- Eligibility: You must have completed your programme and hold the appropriate immigration permission to study in Ireland during your course.
- Duration: The length of post-study work permission depends on the level and duration of your qualification and the rules applicable to your programme at the time you apply.
- Application timing: Applications are typically made after completion of your studies and within the required timeframe set by the Irish authorities.
- Conditions: You must meet all documentation and compliance requirements (e.g., proof of completion, identity documents, and any other information requested).
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always confirm the latest requirements with the Irish Department of Justice and/or your programme provider before planning your post-study options.