Higher Diploma In Science In Computing [Springboard]

Course details

The Higher Diploma in Science in Computing is an Honours Degree level graduate conversion programme which gives graduates from non-computing backgrounds the skills and knowledge to start a career in the IT industry.

Programme Modules:

The make up of this course is:

• Object Oriented Software Development (10 credits)
• Computer Architecture and Technology Convergence (5 credits)
• Network Technologies (5 credits)
• Database Design and Development (5 credits)
• Web Applications Development (5 credits)
• Agile Software Development (5 credits)
• Mobile Applications Development (5 credits)
• Operating Systems and Cloud Computing (5 credits)
• Advanced Object Oriented Software Development / Project (10 credits)
• Computational Thinking with Algorithms (5 credits)
• Work placement/ internship (15 credits

Learning Outcomes:

The learning outcomes for the course are that students will able to:

• Design and develop software applications using an OO Language
• Carry out OO analyses using UML
• Design and implement relational schema and query such schema
• Use appropriate data structures and algorithms
• Contextualise information and computing systems knowledge in a work environment
• Demonstrate an understanding of Computer Architecture
• Explain the role and nature of Operating Systems
• Apply good user interface design principles
• Critically evaluate design and implementation issues in the specialised area.
• Integrate advanced theoretical knowledge and solve complex problems in new, ill-defined or unfamiliar domains, and/or domains at the forefront of learning.

Career Opportunities:

All programme participants will receive specialised CV training and interview training. Experience has shown that programme participants benefit from CV review processes which support participants in developing CVs which reflect past experience as well as the ICT skills being obtained while participating on the programme. Potential roles and employers are discussed which match well to the candidates previously obtained knowledge and transferable skills.

Mock interviews are conducted where students apply for roles in which they are interested and feedback is given on these interviews. Expectations for graduates of the programme are discussed including the likely starting positions which may be obtained.

This information is reinforced with visits from employers and past graduates of the programme who give the benefit of their experience. Students also attend all employer visits to the Institute for general recruitment and this helps broaden their knowledge and experience with respect to the ICT sector and the expectations for graduates in the sector.

Programme material and technologies have been specifically chosen in consultation with industry partners to align to specific skills deficits in the marketplace. In addition projects based on ideas from industry partners are also selected to highlight candidates. knowledge of complex current technologies in short supply.

Entry Requirements:

Applications to the Higher Diploma in Science in Computing will be accepted from prospective students who have an Honours Degree (level 8) qualification. Given the target technical market for graduates of this programme candidates will be required to demonstrate technical or mathematical problem solving skills as part of previous programme learning. Graduates from disciplines which do not have technical or mathematical problem solving skills embedded in their programme will need to be able to demonstrate technical or mathematical problem solving skills in addition to their level 8 programme qualifications (Certifications, Additional Qualifications, Certified Experience and Assessment Tests).

Holders of technical, numerate degrees are likely to gain a higher ranking in any order of merit. Typically these would be applicants who have gained a minimum of a Level 8 qualification in a numerate discipline. Typical disciplines which would fall into this category would be

• Engineering
• Science
• Mathematics
• Architecture

Other graduates with a Level 8 qualification in a programme containing a significant IT component and/or significant numerate element will also be considered. Typical programmes which would fall into this category could include
Management Information Systems

• Accounting
• Marketing
• Management

Applicants who have an equivalent qualification on the NFQ and/or equivalent industry experience will be considered for admission by the programme admissions committee on a case by case basis in compliance with COP No. 6 Policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) .