Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (Web & Cloud Technologies)

Course details

Recent work carried out by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and as outlined in the National Skills Bulletin (July 2011) has identified ICT skills demand for Computer Software Engineers with specialist knowledge in Cloud Computing & Web Development. According to the National Skills Bulleting (2013) the demand for IT skills in Cloud Computing is forecasted to be strong as organisations introduce new or migrate existing systems to increasingly sophisticated online and/or cloud platforms. Strong demand is also confirmed in recent job announcements over the last year, particularly in the areas of cloud computing (e.g. Feed Henry, Zendesk), industry specific software applications development (e.g. food manufacturing (Opensky) and IT security (e.g. FireEye, Zurich IT & Security Services).

This programme has been designed to address the significant gaps as identified by Microsoft Ireland, their Partner Network and other industry and enterprise partners. The intensive nature of the first semester will also develop the organisational skills of the learner and their time management and administrative skills. The second semester continues with the intensive development of the learner and provides an opportunity for the learner to specialise in the Web and Cloud Technology field.

Following completion of the Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (Web & Cloud Technologies), participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of how underlying virtualization technologies function
• Critically evaluate multi-tenancy and deployment models
• Evaluate data storage models & have up-to-date knowledge on established and emerging cloud technologies
• Evaluate platforms in order to create, design and develop a server side web application with database integration
• Demonstrate proficiency in document mark-up languages particularly XML
• Develop Web-based applications using .NET framework and specifically ASP.NET
• 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

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 & Development
• Information Systems Development & Management
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Web Design & Development
• Operating Systems and Networks

In Semester 2 students will pursue a specialisation stream in Web & Cloud Technologies. 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.

• Cloud Computing
• Database & Web Application Development
• 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.

Teaching & Assessment

DBS teaching and learning strategies are intended to facilitate students to take ownership of, and responsibility for, their own learning in partnership with the academic faculty. A wide range of teaching and learning methods are used in the programme to ensure all learning styles are accommodated. Methods will include formal lectures, seminars, workshops, lab tutorials, on-line video demonstrations, and presentations that will emphasise student participation and application to case studies and relevant computing and business issues.

The focus of the programme is on the application of learning to the real-life environment and therefore a significant proportion of this programme is computer based. Learners will be required to practice taught skills and elements of the course via self-directed learning. Intellectual skills are developed through project work, tutorial work and coursework assignments. In addition to the accredited modules learners will be timetabled to participate in personal development activities. Learners will therefore gain the necessary additional applied skills in order to expedite their integration into the workplace.

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:/p>

• Management Information Systems
• Accounting
• Business
• Management