However, when she finished school and started applying for the CAO, she wasn’t sure exactly what she wanted to do. She began a psychology degree in Maynooth and soon realised it wasn’t the right fit for her and knew in her gut that healthcare was a better choice.

Not having a science subject at Leaving Cert level was an obstacle for Aoife. Having taken time to carefully consider the best route for her, it was late in the summer when she reached out to O’Fiaich Institute to get advice, and discovered the Tertiary Pathway into Intellectual Disability Nursing: 

“I found this alternative route which was perfect for me and it suited me really well.”

The Tertiary Access Programme offers a unique route into the BSc (Hons) in Intellectual Disability Nursing. Students begin their studies locally in Cavan, Monaghan, or the Louth–Meath region and progress to DkIT after successfully completing a QQI accredited Level 5 Nursing Studies year. The programme widens participation through flexible entry routes, regional access, and strong academic supports in maths, ICT, and study skills.
 

Aoife’s year in O’Fiaich gave her a solid foundation in care practices and she found learning in smaller numbers really beneficial. Human Growth and Development was a stand-out module for her. It explored the background of humans, and theories and behaviours and why people act as they do. 
Placement is a huge benefit of the course, giving students a clear introduction to the role of an Intellectual Disability nurse before they commence their careers. Aoife completed a 4-week work placement in Osprey Lodge in Termonfeckin, which provides full time residential care and support to adults with disabilities in Co. Louth.She emphasises how well prepared she felt for the placement from her classroom experience beforehand. 

The experience working with adults was completely new to Aoife, but one she really enjoyed. Looking to the future, she envisions a career working with children with intellectual disabilities, even looking towards a masters degree to make that happen. 

The Tertiary Degree experience is one Aoife would recommend to anyone considering this pathway. 

Visit the National Tertiary Office to learn more about alternative degree pathways or, if you are interested in applying for the tertiary pathway into the BSc (Hons) in Intellectual Disability Nursing, applications are open now in O’Fiaich Institute of FET, Cavan Institute and Monaghan Institute.