Pre-University Physiotherapy

SPORTS, RECREATION AND EXERCISE 6M5147
PLSS Code 500658 & 500659 & 500662 | Fee €350

This original and unique programme is a game changer for learners who are aiming to pursue further studies in Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Athletic Therapy, Rehabilitation, and related disciplines.

With a strong focus on relevant academic modules, practical skills, and tailored progression pathways, this programme consistently enables learners to achieve their goals in Ireland and internationally. The programme is uniquely structured to cater for diverse learner profiles, from recent Leaving Certificate graduates to mature learners (23+). Our tailored guidance and academic support ensure that learners maximise their potential and secure places on their desired programmes of further studies in Physiotherapy (23+), Sports Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Athletic Therapy programmes.

A key feature of the programme is our Sports Injury Clinic, where learners gain supervised practical experience that complements their work placement and classroom learning. This real-world experience enhances learners' understanding of injury prevention, assessment, rehabilitation, and human performance while developing the professional skills required in the health and sports therapy sectors.

Learners also benefit from access to our sports complex, which provides opportunities to participate in practical and mixed-discipline classes that complement their academic studies. The programme is supported by staff with over 40 years of expertise in sports rehabilitation, athletic therapy, human performance, and allied health disciplines, ensuring that learners receive industry-relevant knowledge and guidance throughout their studies.

Mature learners aged 23 years and over (by January 2027) have an excellent track record of progression to leading universities, including the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and Trinity College Dublin.

A special partnership with Portobello Institute ensures that learners who achieve six distinctions in this programme can access a direct progression pathway into Year 2 of the three-year Sports Therapy degree at Portobello Institute, Dublin.

Learners also use this qualification to access Physiotherapy programmes in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. With Physiotherapy programmes in the Netherlands becoming increasingly popular among Irish learners , this course offers excellent preparation for admission to institutions such as Hanze University, Saxion University, and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. Learners may also apply to Ulster University and other UK universities offering places in Physiotherapy and related healthcare disciplines.

Progression Opportunities

Tailored Progression Pathways for Every Learner>

This programme is uniquely structured to cater to diverse learner profiles, from recent Leaving Certificate graduates to mature learners (23+). Our tailored guidance ensures all learners maximize their potential and secure a place in their desired Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Rehabilitation and Athletic Therapy courses.

Mature Larners Success Mature learners, particularly those aged 23 and above, have a proven record of accomplishment of entering top universities such as the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI) and Trinity College Dublin. Their feedback highlights how this programmehas provided the foundational knowledge and confidence to excel in further studies and careers.
Special Partnership with Portobello Institute All learners from Leaving Certificate to mature learners who achieve six distinctions in this programme have a direct pathway to enter the second year of the 3-year sports therapy degree at Portobello Institute, Dublin.
Netherlands With physiotherapy programmes in the Netherlands becoming increasingly popular among Irish learners , this course offers a solid preparation for admission to institutions like Hanze University, Saxion University, and Amsterdam University.
Pathway to Ulster University, and UK Learners also have the opportunity to apply to Ulster University, and other U.K Universities. Comprehensive guidance is provided throughout the application process.
CAO Routes There are also QQI pathways to Carlow, Dundalk, Thurles, ATU, Athlone and many more.
LCA Learners LCA learners take a path through our level 5 sports leading to level 6 over a two-year programme.

Why Choose This Programme?

Guidance on applications What sets FET College Íde Finglas apart is our commitment to personalized support. We understand that navigating the journey to becoming a physiotherapist, whether it involves preparing applications, writing motivational letters or personal statements, crafting a standout CV, or acing interviews can feel overwhelming. That is why we take a one-on-one approach, working closely with each learnerto identify their unique goals and strengths. From selecting the best pathway to providing step-by-step guidance throughout the entire process, our dedicated team ensures that every learneris fully prepared to succeed. At FET College Íde Finglas, we are here to support you every step of the way as you work toward your dream career in physiotherapy.
In-house Work Experience A key feature of the programme is its work experience component, where learners gain practical knowledge in a clinical setting, working directly with the public. Guidance is provided by experienced teachers, specialising in biomechanics and massage
Global and National Recognition Graduates have successfully transitioned to renowned programs in Ireland and abroad, and the course’s robust foundation makes it a preferred choice for learnersaiming to study physiotherapy in leading universities.
Duration 1 year over three days 9.00-4.00 - We will work best with you to tailor the timetable to your needs.

Learner Feedback

Learnersconsistently highlight how this program has given them a significant edge in their academic and professional journeys. Many express gratitude for the solid foundation it provides, particularly in preparing them for the rigorous demands of physiotherapy and sports therapy programs.

Contact Us for More Information

We’re here to help you navigate your options and find the best pathway for you. Reach out to our team for tailored advice and application support.

Entry Requirements

In general you need to have a minimum of 5 passes at ordinary level in the Leaving Certificate (Biology is desirable) or its equivalent. Exceptions can be made where special circumstances apply on a case by case basis. The Leaving Certificate is not a requirement for mature learnersand appropriate experience can be considered as meeting the entry requirement for most courses.

We also welcome applications from mature learnerson all our courses.

What Will I Study?

A full QQI Level 5 Award is attained on successful completion of eight modules. This must include all mandatory module listed for the programme. You will be assessed throughout the programme by a combination of continuous assessment, assignments and by exams in certain modules. On successful completion of each module, you will be awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction.

QQI Level 5 Mandatory Modules

Team Leadership (6N1948) QQI
Work Experience (6N1946) QQI
Health Promotion (6N2214) QQI
On Site Massage (6N3478) QQI
Sports Industry Practice (6N4650) QQI
Sports Nutrition (6N4651) QQI
Sports Psychology (6N4665) QQI
Sports Anatomy and Physiology (5N4648) QQI

What Qualifications Will I Get When I Finish The Course?

QQI Level 6 Sports, Recreation and Exercise 6M5147

Progression Routes - Further Options

Ireland

Royal College of Surgeons (RCSI) - Physiotherapy (Mature learnersonly)
Trinity College Dublin (TCD) - Physiotherapy (Mature learnersonly)
Ulster University - Physiotherapy
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Rehabilitation and Athletic Therapy
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) – Athlone Campus Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Athletic & Rehabilitation Therapy
Southeast Technological University (SETU) – Carlow Campus Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Rehabilitation and Athletic Therapy
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health and Physical Activity
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) – Thurles Campus Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Strength and Conditioning
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) – Athlone Campus Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology
South East Technological University (SETU) – Carlow Campus Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sport and Exercise Science
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) – Galway Campus Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sport and Exercise Science

CAO Progression Routes for this Course

Netherlands

Hanze University of Applied Science - Physiotherapy
Amsterdam University - Physiotherapy
Saxion University - Physiotherapy
Fontys University - Physiotherapy

This course has seen learnersgo from this course across the UK to a number of highly recognised Universities in Scotland and England also.

Testimonials

David O’Driscoll | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Queen Margaret's, Edinburgh, Scotland)

Joining FET College Íde Finglase was the right decision for me. I missed a place on Carlow’s Sports Rehabilitation and Athletic Therapy by 5 points. I had no ambition to become a physiotherapist or move to a different country. I found the emphasis that was put on team leadership and the holistic approach in FET College Íde Finglas is helpful when working with patients. One year later I am studying Physiotherapy in Queen Margaret’s University, Edinburgh. I am loving my time in Scotland.

Ciarán Lowe

I began in FET College Íde Finglas in 2016 and 1 year later I am in Holland studying Physiotherapy. Anatomy, massage and bio-mechanics were my favourite subjects to study and I use these subjects every day. Many thanks to the teachers in FET College Íde Finglas who helped me gain a position at Hanze, one of the top universities in the Netherlands. My FET College Íde Finglas experience was life changing. It gave me a chance to follow my dream even though my leaving cert didn’t go to plan.

Sarah Toner | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Hanze, Groningen, Netherlands)

I am a first year physiotherapy learner in Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen, Netherlands. When I was doing my Leaving Certificate, I heard about FET College Íde Finglas. Without the Pre-University Physiotherapy course, I wouldn’t be where I am now. The course gave me a good background and insight in to physiotherapy and I met some great people on the way, one is living across the hall from me now. If you want to study physiotherapy and you are worried about the points or if you are unsure is it the career for you, just go to FET College Íde Finglas.

Shannon Byrne | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Portobello Institute, Dublin)

After I finished FET College Íde Finglas Physiotherapy course, I took a year out to work and compete in dancing. I don’t want to leave Ireland to study abroad, so it is great to be accepted in to the second year, at Portobella Institiute in Dublin, to study Sports Therapy. Because of my Level 6 in FET College Íde Finglas I got advanced entry. I will have an honours degree in two years time, and then go on to Queen Margaret’s, Scotland to do my Masters in Physiotherapy.

Ryan Ward | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Hanze, Groningen, Netherlands)

I believe this course in FET College Íde Finglas is a window of opportunity and one that deserves a lot of recognition. At the beginning of the Pre-Physiotherapy course it was all just a dream. Following a lot of hard work and putting the head down to achieve the results I needed to go abroad, I managed to secure a place In Hanze Univeristy of Applied Science in Groningen, a small city in the north of the Netherlands. Hanze itself is outstanding and ranked one of the best in Europe due to their ability to combine theory and practical. This gives you amazing hands on experience. Right now, I am in my 1st year of Physiotherapy in the Netherlands and have not looked back since. The culture, student lifestyle and very high level of education you receive here is second to none. It is an opportunity that FET College Íde Finglas gave me.

Kate Lynch

I just missed out on the sport science and health course in ITT by a couple of points. At the time I was devastated. I am now attending ITT Sports Science and Health and I love it. Going to FET College Íde Finglas was one of the best decisions I made. It repared me for college as I had assignments due every week and it also gave me a head start in the modules chemistry, iomechanics, anatomy and physiology, health promotion, and sports psychology. After I get my degree in Sports Science, I can further my studies and do a masters in physiotherapy.

Sean Moriarty | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Robert Gordon, Aberdeen, Scotland)

Ali Pierce O’Neill | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Fontys, Eindhoven, Netherlands)

Sharon Wall | Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at Trinty College, Dublin)

Niamh Henry | hysiotherapy Graduate (studying at Robert Gordon, Aberdeen, Scotland)

Steve Kelly | Past Physiotherapy Graduate (studying at UCD, Dublin)

Mature physiotherapy graduate talks about his experience at FET College Íde Finglas

Duration

1 year

Course Code

4321, 4322, 4323