Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (IT Infrastructure & Networking)

Course details

Recent work carried out by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and as outlined in the National Skills Bulletin (2013) has identified ICT skills demand for Network Specialists & Engineers. In order to address and respond to this ICT skill shortage, DBS have developed a Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (IT Infrastructure and Networking). Specific skills include Server Message Block, Wireless sensor testing, collaboration functions, router configuration and management, experience with scripting language Java, C+ and network configurations.

Closely linked with this specialist stream, is the increasing demand for ICT security technologies and skills. As outlined in the EGFSN/Forfas report (Nov 2013), it is estimated that spending on IT security products in 2013 was around €25 billion globally and growing at more than 7% over the next three years. The move towards cloud solutions have strengthened the growing need to invest in security as sensitive information may no longer reside on dedicated hardware and the mode of access changes. The ‘Computer Security’ module embedded on the IT Infrastructure stream with the core concepts of computer security includes various tools and techniques for vulnerability discovery and threat analysis. Participants also develop best practice tools and techniques, standards and trends related to computer security.

Following completion of the Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (IT Infrastructure & Networking) participants will be able to:

• Design, configure & manage a switched network. Implementing a hierarchical structure, loop avoidance, switch convergence and VLANS.
• Design & Implement an IP addressing scheme for a network.
• Understand and describe the operations & functions of a router & its critical role within networking.
• Demonstrate in-depth understanding of WAN technologies, from Frame Relays to MPLS to Metro Ethernet.
• Demonstrate basic system administration tasks such as user management & modifying file permissions.
• Write & execute UNIX/Linux bash scripts which perform common system administration tasks.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge in the area of virtualization & how underlying virtualization technologies function.
• Identify & analyse several security threats to given computer applications.
• Specify and apply security requirements to counter security problems for given applications.
• Identify several security tools and techniques to develop appropriate security mechanisms for the protection of computer systems.

Programme Content

In Semester 1 students will be provided with a significant grounding in core computing modules.

Core modules for Semester 1 (30 ECTS Credits) are:

• Principles of Programming
• Database Design and Development
• Information Systems Development & Management
• IT Project Management
• Web Design and Development
• Operating Systems & Networks

In Semester 2 students will pursue a specialisation stream in IT Infrastructure & Networking. This element is a focused set of modules and project work designed to bring candidates quickly to the industry entry standard for graduates in their chosen field of specialisation.

Core modules for Semester 2 (30 ECTS credits) are:

• System Architecture & Technology
• Computer Security
• Advanced Networks
• Project

In Semester 3 students will engage in a minimum 6 month work placement (30 ECTS Credits)

Upon successful completion of the taught element of the course, participants will enter the work placement element of the conversion programme. This element will enable students to gain relevant experience and furthermore will allow employers to field test potential recruits.

Personal Development Programme

To complement the academic programme, learners will follow a skills based Personal Development Programme (PDP). The programme has been designed in collaboration with industry to ensure that graduates are able to demonstrate the personal skills and aptitudes employers have highlighted as requirements and to assist graduates of the programme to integrate effectively into the work place. The PDP will be delivered across all three semesters.

Entry Requirements

To be considered for admission to this programme, applicants must hold a Primary Honours Degree (Level 8) in a cognate discipline from a recognised third level institution or equivalent qualification. 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.

Candidates will ideally be able to demonstrate technical or mathematical problem solving skills as part of previous programme learning. Typically holders of more technical, numerate degrees are likely to gain a higher ranking in any order of merit in selection for the programme.

Typical disciplines which would fall into this category would be:

• Engineering
• Architecture
• Mathematics
• Physics

Some candidates will also have gained a Level 8 qualification in a programme with a significant IT component and/or significant numerate element. Such programmes vary greatly in mathematical and information technology content and assessment would be by detailed examination of subject content, assessments and syllabi.

Typical programmes which would fall into this category could include:

• Management Information Systems
• Accounting
• Business
• Management