Course Summary
Course Category: PLC (Further Education - FET) - Apply directly to College
This course aims to provide students with skills and training that will enable them to pursue a career in the computer industry and in particular, in the areas of networking with particular emphasis on ‘Mobile’ Technologies. Information Technology is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Irish Economy, with particular growth in the field of computer-based services and software development. The versatility of this course will enable students to enter any field eg. IT, Finance, Education or the Public Service. Successful students will be awarded a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Computer Systems & Networks. All students complete a two week work experience placement as part of their studies on this course.
Course Details
This course prepares you for working in the following Career Sectors:
What will you study?
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Maths for Information Technology 5M0529
Communications 5N0690 or Customer Service 5N0972
Work Experience 5N1356
Operating Systems 5M0529
Programming and Design Principles 5N2927
ICT Security Policy and Management 5N0583
Mobile Technologies 5M0529
Computer Systems and Hardware 5M0536
Networking Essentials 5M0536
Important
- Colleges may add/remove modules to keep the course updated and to meet demands.
- Almost all PLC courses have a Work Experience module, which requires students to find their own placement in an area directly related to their course.
Progression to CAO Courses
Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS)
This course leads to a QQI Major Award, and provides progression opportunities to a number of Higher Education courses, including those in the CAO.
To view CAO courses to which this award provides a possible progression route, click below:
| QQI Code |
| 5M0536 |
To calculate Points based on your QQI award results, use the PLC Points Calculator.
The Student - Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Further Research
National Statistics for this Award (All Ireland)
The following data provides general information about this Award from colleges across Ireland.
Disclaimer: These links are to web sites outside of CareersPortal and we accept no responsibility for the information on them.
Career Progression
This course is a good introduction to Computer Systems and Networks and a great starting point for anyone interested in a career in the IT Support area. The versatility of the course will enable students to enter a variety of field’s eg Information Technology Industry, Public Service, Private Sector, Local Authorities or Banking and Finance. Alternatively graduates may choose to progress to related courses at 3rd Level colleges.