Certificate in Data Management & Analytics

Course details

Recent work carried out by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and as outlined in the National Skills Bulletin (July 2013) identified ‘data analytic’ skills with competences in big data analytics infrastructure and technologies (Java, JavaScript. MySQL and Linux combined with Agile, CSS and for data architects; Oracle, Java, SQL and Data Modelling) as key skills difficult to source. Globally there is a reported shortage of skilled professionals with data analytic skills which falls into 3 categories: data analytical talent, big data savvy roles and supporting technology professionals with the skills to develop, implement and maintain the hardware and software required to make use of data analytics including big data. This programme focuses on the skills required to develop participants in the area of data management and analytics which the government have put forward to make Ireland a leading country in Europe in "Big data".

Programme Aims and Objectives

It is estimated that data collected and generated by companies and governments is growing by approximately 40% annually. Global companies that leverage this data smartly have created significant value resulting in higher productivity, profitability and greater market share. A recent survey by Tech4Biz found that 42% of businesses are actively recruiting or planning to recruit data analysts. The employment potential in data analytics comes in the form of skilled jobs for data analysts in areas such as maths and statistics and with the associated IT skills required to analyse the data concerned. The technology centres being progressed by Enterprise Ireland and the IDA Ireland in Data Analytics and Cloud Computing, position Ireland as a recognised centre for applied research and underpin the attractiveness of Ireland as a location for foreign direct investment and the growth of the Irish Industry.

Throughout this programme, participants will learn a range of tools and techniques for system analysis, design and development and will build key practical skills in current database languages, analytical and diagramming tools. Furthermore, they will be provided with the skills to examine core data management tools and techniques and then build on this knowledge to evaluate cutting edge tools and techniques. Students will also design a data warehouse and learn to mine a variety of data sources. This will be complimented with the module implementing digital media which reflects the applied nature of the course with the participants developing and evaluating digital tools that they will design and an excellent knowledge of social media.

Throughout this programme, participants will learn a range of tools and techniques for system analysis, design and development and will build key practical skills in current database languages, analytical and diagramming tools. Furthermore, they will be provided with the skills to examine core data management tools and techniques and then build on this knowledge to evaluate cutting edge tools and techniques. Students will also design a data warehouse and learn to mine a variety of data sources. This will be complimented with the module implementing digital media which reflects the applied nature of the course with the participants developing and evaluating digital tools that they will design and an excellent knowledge of social media.

Programme Content

• Information Systems & Databases
• Management
• Data Management and Analytics
• Implementing Digital Media
• Teaching & Assessment
• The proposed teaching, learning and assessment methodologies are intended to facilitate springboard participants to take ownership of, and responsibility for, their own learning in partnership with the academic faculty.

Specific methods adopted will include:

• Conventional lectures
• Lab practical sessions
• E-Learning
• Workshops
• Tutorials
• Projects
• Seminars
• Assignments
• Analysis of case studies
• Group research and project work
• Guest lectures

Students will be actively encouraged and assisted to manage their own studies outside of lectures. This is facilitated by the teaching styles and methods adopted and by placing greater emphasis on practically focused assessment. A particular focus of this programme will be for students to work in collaborative teams with their tutors on a variety of projects. Through this process they will learn key life skills of good teamwork towards achieving a common goal. In addition, the E-learning platform, Moodle, will also provide lecturers and students with a virtual learning environment to complement and enrich the more traditional learning environment.

Assessment Methods

The programme assessment strategies have been developed to help learners acquire the transferable skills relevant to the workplace. These include working as part of a team, report writing, presentation skills etc.

Methods will include:

• Problem solving exercises
• Practical projects incorporating a variety of competencies and skills
• Case studies
• Research-based projects
• Individual assignments
• Management reports
• Group projects
• Group and Individual presentations
• Exams and other time constrained assessments (open and closed book)

Entry Requirements

To be eligible to apply for a place on this programme, applicants must:

• Hold a minimum Level 6 NFQ Award in disciplines such as Business Management, Finance, Marketing or Social Sciences OR
• Applications without the above will also be considered on the basis of previous experience and learning (APEL).

In addition, an IELTS score of a minimum 6.0 or equivalent is required, where full-time study has been conducted in a language other than English or for applicants whose first language is not English.