The Diploma in Applied Software Development is designed for individuals looking to develop their knowledge and skills in the area of Java Programming and Software Development. It is intended to produce graduates with the attributes required of a Software Developer or Software Engineer today, and to equip them with the ability to continue to develop and remain competitive and employable in a rapidly changing and expanding sector of the economy.
The programme provides the opportunity to assimilate knowledge within an industry-focused learning environment. This focus is maintained through the use of practical sessions in labs and workshops. The programme modules focus on Software Development topics informed and aided by industry consultation. The learning environment will maximise use of classroom and laboratory learning as well as interactive workshops. Industry-relevant challenges will be issued to learners to provide an authentic learning and assessment experience. Graduates will be qualified to assume entry level industry roles and/or to further advance their education.
The programme is aimed at individuals seeking employment within the IT field and those already employed in a related industry. The programme will both enhance the employability of graduates and equip them for further study. The programme will also suit learners who have already attained a Level 7 NFQ award in a related discipline and are seeking to extend their knowledge, specialising in software development.
The overall objectives of the programme are:
On successful completion of the programme, graduates will be equipped to apply for further study in the IT discipline at level 7 and level 8 on the NFQ. They will also possess the knowledge and skills required for entry level positions as software developers.
This is a one year, part time, Diploma in Applied Software Development, with contact hours delivered over evening and weekend schedule slots (to afford any enrolled student not currently in employment the opportunity to accept a daytime job offer and continue to completion of the course as well as allow those in employment to balance course work with other full-time commitments).
Learners will undertake a variety of formative learning activities in the classroom or lab to prepare them for the programme assessments. Assessments are completed during the taught modules and through end of module assessments or examinations. The programme engages an authentic assessment approach to provide learners with an insight into real work tasks, scenarios and challenges. Opportunities for integrated assessment are maximised to better reflect the authentic work-based problems and scenarios.
Those who are in employment/working :
For eligible applicants who are currently in employment/working 90% of the tuition fees will be covered by the HEA through Springboard+ and the remaining 10% is payable by the student or their employer.
The full fee for this course is €4,975 so for successful applicants who are in employment €497.50 will be payable once you have been offered a place and before you enrol on your Springboard+ course.
Those who are unemployed, formerly self-employed or ‘Returners’:
This course is free for eligible applicants who are unemployed, formerly self-employed or who are classified by Springboard+ as ‘Returners’ or ‘Homemakers’.
Admission to this the Diploma in Applied Software Development 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.
All applicants must evidence competence in mathematics equivalent to O6 standard in leaving certificate.
The minimum requirements for general learning are the ability to communicate effectively in writing – produce written summaries, reports, discussions and projects on academic and or applied matters, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
For applicants whose first language is not English, English language competency required for entry must be equal to or greater than B2+ in the CEFRL. English language credentials endorsed by other systems (viz. IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, Duolingo etc.) will be assessed to ensure they meet this minimum standard.
Basic computer literacy is not sufficient for this programme. All applicants must have qualifications or experience which evidences intermediate competence in IT
For entry via RPL applicants are required to demonstrate general learning competence. Mathematical competence and comfort and familiarity in the use of IT, along with the ability to write reports or similar written documentation, are also required.
Application for this Diploma in Applied Software Development course commencing September 2024 is now open. Application should be made via the Springboard+ website here.
We are hosting a number of events in the lead up to the next academic year to give prospective students the opportunity to find out more about their course and the College. At the moment these events are virtual and you can pre-register here.
You can also make a 1-2-1 appointment with an Admissions Advisor in person or online via Zoom by email.
All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby, in the event of the provider ceasing to provide the programme for any reason, enrolled learners may transfer to a similar programme at another provider, or, in the event that this is not practicable, the fees most recently paid will be refunded.
