This Certificate in Python Programming has been designed in response to industry feedback for the provision of accredited professional development opportunities. The course is funded by the Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy 2026 programme and fees are subsidised at 80% for all eligible learner categories. It may also in the future provide a pathway for further studies in minor awards at level 7 and a pathway to Higher Diploma or BSc in Computing, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, DevOPs or AI.
This micro-credential is targeted towards those with little or no experience in programming who are looking to begin their career in programming or advance their career with the Python programming language and leads the students from the basics of writing and running Python scripts to more advanced features such as file operations, regular expressions, working with data, and using the extensive functionality of Python modules. Particular emphasis is placed on features unique to Python, such as tuples, array slices, and output formatting.
Applicants will be seeking professional development and academic enhancement, specifically in the field of programming.
The design and development of this Certificate in Python programming has been informed by industry consultation from CCT’s Industry Engagement Forum (IEF). This programme will appeal to a range of adult learners who may be currently in employment and wish to up-skill, returners and other groups who may wish to re-skill. Learners on this Certificate programme will be provided with the opportunity to assimilate knowledge within an industry focused learning environment. Industry-initiated real-world problems will be provided by our industry supporters and used as the context for planning and designing assessment solutions, as well as being an aid for problem solving sessions.
In addition to the core programme content, learners will develop a range of transversal development skills which will include critical analysis, evaluation, problem solving and communication skills.
This programme aligns with various National and European strategic objectives, including the National Strategy for Higher Education Plan 2030 and the National Digital & AI Strategy, Digital Ireland – Connecting our People, Securing our Future. This Micro-credential empowers Irelands workforce with cutting edge skills through flexible, lifelong learning incorporating the government’s strategy of an agile approach to digital and AI skills.
The 2025 SOLAS Report indicates ongoing shortages in ICT, AI, and data-related roles, alongside demand for hybrid skill sets coupling programming and transversal competencies, which this programme aims to address.
This Certificate in Python Programming course is scheduled to commence week of October 12th 2026*. The teaching and assessment will be delivered over an 11 week period with a 2 week Christmas break. This is a 11 week, part-time programme with contact hours delivered over evening and weekend schedule slots. This programme will lead to a QQI award at Level 7 of the NQF.
*Subject to validation by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
This Micro-Credential Certificate programme leads the students from the basics of writing and running Python scripts to more advanced features such as file operations, regular expressions, working with data, and using the extensive functionality of Python modules. Particular emphasis is placed on features unique to Python, such as tuples, array slices, and output formatting.
For October 2026 the course will be offered on an evening/weekend blended learning basis. Typically learners will attend two evenings per week (online) plus 1-2 Saturdays (on campus).
All students will be introduced to the CCT online learning environment as part of the induction to the programme and will have access to further support as required.
Online activities can include live or pre-recorded lectures, independent learning and assessment activities such as research tasks, discussion forums, simulations, quizzes and e-portfolio work along with online group activities such as live classes, group project work, virtual labs and tutorials. Completing the online elements of the programme each week is essential to successfully complete the programme. On campus activities can include small group tutorials, labs, project supervision, problem solving case studies, library research and seminars.
Assessment is through a combination of practical exercises and an assignment. Industry initiated real-world problems are used as the context for planning and designing assessment solutions, as well as being an aid for problem solving sessions. Summative assessment is a blend of integrated assessment and module specific assessment utilising both group and individual work, while formative assessment is pipelined into module delivery and feedback, so as not to add to the assessment burden of students.
Admission to this Certificate in Python Programming is through one of the following:
Evidence of prior learning, including experiential learning,
or
Possession of an NFQ level 5 award, including leaving certificate, FET award, or equivalent.
In addition, all applicants must evidence competence in mathematics equivalent to O6 standard in leaving certificate and competence in the use of IT. Basic computer literacy is not sufficient for this programme.
International applicants whose first language isn’t English must demonstrate a minimum competency in the English
Language of CEFR B2+.
Applicants are encouraged to apply for entry based on prior learning (RPL) or prior experiential learning (RPEL) in line with the College policy. The College will thoroughly assess applications received through RPL and RPEL to ensure that candidates are able to evidence learning to an appropriate standard – normally the framework level equivalent to the direct entry qualification requirement and demonstrate potential to succeed and benefit from the programme.
Those who are in employment/working :
For eligible applicants who are currently in employment/working 80% of the tuition fees will be covered by the HEA through the Micro-Credential Learner Fee Subsidy (LFS) and the remaining 20% is payable by the student or their employer.
The Course Tuition Fee is €1050 so €210 euro is payable by the student or their employer
Those who are unemployed, formerly self-employed and ‘Returners’:
Th is Micro-credential course is also 80% funded for eligible applicants who are unemployed, formerly self-employed or who are classified by the HEA as ‘Returners’ or ‘Homemakers’.
Application for this Micro-Credential Certificate in Python Programming should be made via the Springboard Courses Website.
