The Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is a 10 level system used to describe qualifications in the Irish education and training system.
The NFQ shows how General Education Awards, Further Education and Training and Higher Education Awards are mapped against the 10 levels of the framework.
It describes what learners need to know, understand and be able to do to achieve a qualification. It lists the main qualifications awarded at each level and pathways from one NFQ level to the next.
The NFQ allows you to compare qualifications to help with your choice of programme or course, knowing that it will be recognised at home and abroad.
All qualifications included on the NFQ are listed in the Irish Register of Qualifications. If your qualification was obtained outside Ireland, NARIC Ireland, the National Academic Recognition Information Centre will help you find out how your qualification is understood in Ireland. Atlantic Technological University offers programmes from level 6 to level 10.
Recognition of Prior Learning and the NFQ
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process by which prior learning is formally valued. It is a means by which prior learning is identified, assessed, and recognised by Atlantic Technological University as part of its programmes, courses, and/or modules on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
This makes it possible for an individual to build on learning achieved and to be rewarded for it. Prior learning is assessed against the standards of this framework. This not only ensures equity with assessment of formal learning, it also ensures RPL applicants enter the education system at a level appropriate to them.
