National Framework of Qualifications

The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is a system used to describe levels of educational qualifications in Ireland. Responsibility for maintaining and developing the framework lies with Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI).

Launched in 2003, the NFQ was developed by the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland as a means of comparing training and qualifications between institutions of education at all levels. It encompasses learning at primary and second level, as well as acting as a benchmark for required standards for graduates of courses offered by QQI, and universities.[1] The framework consists of 10 "Levels", ranging from Certificates at Level 1 which signify initial learning to degrees at doctoral level. A 'fan diagram'[2] is used to illustrate the progression of the levels.[3]

Framework

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EQF level EHEA cycle NFQ level Major award types
1   1 Level 1 Certificate
2 Level 2 Certificate
2 3 Level 3 Certificate
Junior Certificate
3 4 Level 4 Certificate
Leaving Certificate
4 5 Level 5 Certificate
Leaving Certificate
5 6 Advanced Certificate
Short cycle within 1st Higher Certificate
6 1st 7 Ordinary bachelor's degree
  8 Honours bachelor's degree
Higher Diploma
7 2nd 9 Master's Degree
Post-Graduate Diploma
8 3rd 10 Doctoral Degree
Higher Doctorate

References

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  1. ^ "National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)". www.nfq.ie. Archived from the original on 22 April 2021.
  2. ^ "National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)". www.nfq.ie.
  3. ^ "National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)". www.nfq.ie.
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