‘Futureproofing’ is key motivator for potential applicants
- Almost 8,000 free and subsidised places on higher education courses now open for applications-
Two-thirds of people considering a Springboard+ course want to ‘futureproof their careers’ in an ever-changing workplace. That’s according to research published by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) as it opens its 2025 programme of higher education courses today (03.06.2025) for applicants wishing to upskill or reskill in areas where job opportunities are growing in Ireland.
The Springboard+ programme is funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and in 2025, a total of 7,719places are available on 249 courses delivered by 37 higher education institutes nationwide. This year, 26 ‘micro-credentials’ 50% funded by Springboard+ are also available for those interested in shorter courses to upskill in very specific areas.
Sean McCaffrey, from Dundalk, has completed two Springboard+ courses and now works for Iarnród Éireann.
“I left school at 18 without completing my Leaving Certificate. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life, so I joined the Irish Defence Forces where I spent 16 years. After leaving, I decided to pursue my first Springboard+ course — a Certificate in Procurement Management from University College Cork after which I was offered a job in Iarnród Éireann – a job I wouldn’t have been in the running for only for my Springboard+ course.
“I saw tangible benefits immediately, so it was a no-brainer to start a level nine Post Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership in Business from Technological University Dublin, which enabled me to move up the career ladder with Iarnród Éireann, as sustainability is key to so many industries today.
“The impact of these courses has gone far beyond my professional life. They’ve boosted my confidence, opened doors I never thought possible, and improved my ability to support my young family thanks to flexible, hybrid learning. The experience has instilled in me a love of lifelong learning — something I encourage in everyone around me, including my siblings, who have all completed Springboard+ courses.
“Springboard+ gave me more than just qualifications — it provided me with new opportunities, a stronger sense of purpose, and the skills to be employable in a changing world.”
Announcing this year’s programme, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science,James Lawless, said:
“Springboard+ is one of the most impactful investments this Government makes in the further education of its people. These courses are designed to respond directly to evolving skills demands, particularly in fast-growing and high-impact sectors. It offers thousands of learners the chance to upskill or reskill in areas where Ireland needs talent from artificial intelligence to infrastructure planning to cybersecurity.
“As Minister, I’m proud to support Springboard+ with €34.4 million from the National Training Fund. This programme empowers people to study alongside work and personal commitments with courses that are heavily subsidised or free, making upskilling more accessible and achievable for everyone. I encourage everyone to look at what is available as whether you’re advancing in your current career, pivoting to a new one, or stepping onto the career ladder for the first time, Springboard+ is designed to open doors in an affordable, flexible way that has real career impact.”
This year, courses are available in areas such as Infrastructure planning; Sustainable Building; Renewable Energy; Digital Skills, Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence.
Speaking about this year’s programme, Dr Vivienne Patterson, Head of Skills, Engagement and Statistics at the Higher Education Authority said:
“There are many reasons to consider a Springboard+ course, but the two key benefits are the cost and the quality. If you’re eligible to apply for a full- or part-time Springboard+ course the most you’ll pay is 10% of the fees. If you’re currently out of work, you’ll be 100% subsidised through the Springboard+ programme. The micro-credentials courses which last around 12 weeks are 50% subsidised for all participants.
“In terms of the quality of the course and the qualification at the end of it – courses range from Certificate (Level 6) to Masters (Level 9) on the National Framework of Qualifications and are delivered by the best public and private higher education providers around the country.”
Springboard+ courses are delivered both online and through blended learning, and last up to one year. Courses are available on a part-time or full-time basis, offering more flexibility to learners.
Applications are made through the Springboard+ website (https://springboardcourses.ie/) and applications open on 3rd June. All courses will commence between 1st July and 31st October 2025.
Springboard+ is part funded by the European Union European Structural and Investment Funds (ESF). The primary objective of Springboard+ is to provide upskilling and reskilling courses to develop the talent base in Ireland in key growth sectors of the economy. (www.eufunds.ie)
