NCI Course Details

This computing course will equip you to create software applications for business transformation, artificial intelligence, data analytics, gaming, blockchain and internet of things. You will also understand how to incorporate user data into software applications and how to engineer a software application from requirements through analysis, design, implementation and testing. The course will also allow you to develop your business and interpersonal skills.

In your final year, you will study modules based on your chosen specialisation from important and exciting areas of computer science

This part-time course is aimed at those working in the information and communications technology industry and wishing to develop their knowledge and skills in the area of computing and so improve their career prospects. It will also appeal to anyone wishing to move into the information and communications technology industry.

Year 1

• Discrete Mathematics
• Problem Solving and Programming Concepts
• Computational Thinking
• Operating Systems
• Computer Architecture
• Introduction to Programming
• Introduction to Data Modelling and Databases
• Web Design and Development
• Digital Multimedia
• The Computing Industry

Year 2

• Data Communications and Networking
• Object Oriented Programming
• Advanced Databases
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Software Engineering
• Software Quality and Testing
• Web Application Development
• Innovation and Business Entrepreneurship
• Team Project

Year 3

• Advanced Computer Networks
• Technical Electives*:
• Business Computing Electives: *
• Security Fundamentals and Development
• Six-month work placement within an organisation or Academic Internship

*Students should choose either the Technical Electives or the Business Computing Electives. Students who complete the Business Computing Electives will go on to the 4th Year specialisation in Digital Business Transformation. Students who complete the Technical Electives may choose to specialise in either Games Programming, Software Development, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning/Data Analytics and Internet of Things.

Year 4: Choose a Specialisation

• Games Programming
• Software Development Specialisation
• Cybersecurity Specialisation
• Internet of Things Specialisation
• Blockchain Specialisation
• Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning/Data Analytics
• Digital Business Transformation

Availability of specialisations is subject to student numbers

For information on the modules taught on this course view our module descriptors.

Assessment

The course will be assessed with a blend of continuous assessments and/or project work and exams.

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computing is awarded by QQI at level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications. This award will allow progression to level 9 courses on the NFQ. The final award is calculated from the weighted results of stages 2, 3 and 4. The course also prepares students for industryrecognised certificates in leading technologies.

This IT degree course is designed to appeal to those at work or seeking to re-enter the workforce. There are no specific academic requirements with applicants considered based on relevant work and other experience. Applicants may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process. Applicants under 21 will be assessed based on Leaving Certificate or equivalent.

Non-English-speaking applicants must demonstrate fluency in English evidenced by an IELTS academic score of at least 6.0 or equivalent. Visit our English Language Requirements page for further information.

This programme has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. Specifically, students are expected to successfully participate in lectures, laboratories and projects using a portable computer (laptop/notebook) with a substantial hardware configuration. The minimal suitable configuration is 8GB of RAM (16GB are recommended); a modern 64-bit x86 multicore processor (Intel i5 or superior); 250+ GB of available space in hard disk; WiFi card; and a recent version of Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows.

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure their computer is functioning correctly and that they have full administrator rights. NCI IT cannot provide support for these personal devices.

A Laptop Loan Scheme is available for eligible students to assist them in completing their chosen course.

Two evenings per week 18.00 - 22.00 and Saturdays 09.00 - 18.00.

You can also choose to study this course on a full-time basis.

Please note that in some instances exams may take place in the daytime, evening, and/or at weekends.

Blended - Livestream with some on-campus stream classes, scheduled in advance.

See the BSc (Honours) in Computing course brochure for an explanation of the learning methods.

This course runs over 4 years; 3 semesters per year.

Use of online/blended learning.

€4,200 per annum
(Fees revised annually)

You can spread the cost of this course with a direct debit plan.

Scholarships and Discounts

We offer a range of scholarship opportunities and discount offers available to both NCI and non-NCI graduates that will help you access this course.