Course Summary
Course Category: PLC (Further Education - FET) - Apply directly to College
This one-year course is for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the computer industry. It aims to prepare students for careers that require specialist knowledge in programming, network implementation and web technology.
This course also provides an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue degree programmes in universities or those wishing to progress onto Level 6 programmes or apprenticeships.
Course Details
This course prepares you for working in the following Career Sectors:
What will you study?
-
Computer Systems Hardware
Communications
Networking Essentials
Mathematics for IT
Operating Systems
Word Processing
Mobile Technologies
Programming and Design Principles
Work Experience
ICT Security Policy and Management
Modules are subject to change due to availability and demand.
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
Students who qualify in this area can pursue further study and a career in: technical support, networking, computer manufacturing, and customer support, computer sales or marketing. They can also work with financial institutions, call centres, and government departments. QQI graduates are eligible to apply to institutes of technology and universities for follow-on courses such as linked courses in places like DIT, Maynooth University, Athlone IT, Blanchardstown IT, NUIG (Shannon), Marino Institute of Education, American College, Dun Laoghaire IADT. For example, students can apply for the over 160 places available in first arts in Maynooth University and take computer options.