Software Development at DFEI
Duration
This is a Full time one year course
Overview
This Pre-University computer science course provides an opportunity to train for a rewarding career in the IT industry. Students will develop the skills to be able to design, create and maintain websites, databases and computer networks, as well as the fundamentals of computer programming using java, C#, PHP, Javascript and Visual Basic using Visual Studio, software architecture and technical support. This course is supported by FIT (fast Track into IT) which is a unique IT led initiative that offers students the opportunity to acquire essential skills to gain employment in the thriving IT sector. Students are given training in job interview techniques and CV preparation. Visits to companies are also organised with a view to possible internships.
Entry Requirements
One of the following:
- One of the following:
- Leaving Certificate - You must have achieved 5 passes or 5 O6/H7's or combination of 5 O6/H7's or its equivalent
- Leaving Certificate Applied with a Merit Profile
- Full QQI Level 4 Award
- Mature Applicants (aged 21 or over) - Appropriate experience will be considered
Certification
- Level 5 QQI Award Software Development (5M0529)
- CompTIA Certification (Optional)
Work Experience
Students will be required to undertake a period work placement in an organisation connected to their vocational area during the academic year. Students are required to source their own work placement but will be assisted in this by the work experience teacher. The work placement is usually for a period of 10 days or a minimum of 60 hours. Students usually find the work experience element of the course to be invaluable and should bear in mind that a successful work placement can sometimes lead to further opportunities.
Additional Information
This course is delivered through a blended learning approach which is a combination of classroom and online learning.
This course is supported by FIT, which offers students the opportunity to acquire essential skills to gain employment. Students are given training in job interview techniques and CV preparation.
Assessment
Assessment techniques will be used to assess the knowledge and skills that students will have achieved on successful completion of modules:
- Student Record
- Portfolio/Collection of Work
- Assignments
- Examination Written or Practical
- Project
Progression Opportunities
DFEi: Graduates may progress to the QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Software Development and Networking at DFEi.
Elsewhere: Graduates are eligible to apply through the CAO and/or the Higher Education Links Scheme to a range of higher certificate and degree programmes, at Universities, Institutes of Technology and Technological Universities. Places are not guaranteed and are subject to students meeting certain criteria. It is the students' responsibility to consult with the individual third level college websites for more information. Information is also available at www.cao.ie
Progression Examples
BSc in Computer
University College Dublin
Bachelor of Arts
BSc in Computer Science and Software Engineering
BSc in Multimedia Mobile and Web Development
National University of Ireland Maynooth
BSc in Creative Media Technologies
BSc in Creative Computing
Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology