Know a graduate looking to start a career in Computer Science?
If you have a primary degree (e.g. Arts, Business etc.) applications are still open for our Springboard+ Higher Diploma in Computer Science [ICT Skills Conversion].
This course is either FREE or 90% subsidised!
The programme is full-time, delivered over one academic year (three semesters). The curriculum places a strong emphasis on the practical aspects of modern Computer Science and is designed to provide individuals with the appropriate skills to enter into an IT-related career.
Contact Gráinne at 01 716 2486 or email grainne.ninuallain@ucd.ie with any related queries or questions.
Applications are made via Springboard+ using the following link: (opens in a new window)https://springboardcourses.ie/details/11276
Springboard+ is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, via the National Training Fund, and the European Union.
Programme Overview
The Higher Diploma in Computer Science [ICT Skills Conversion] is suitable for individuals holding a primary degree in another discipline (e.g., Arts, Business, Social Science, etc.), seeking to convert to Computer Science. It is a 1-year full-time programme delivered over three semesters. The programme places a strong emphasis on the practical aspects of modern Computer Science and is designed to provide individuals with the appropriate skills to enter into an IT - related career.
Furthermore, this NFQ Level 8 programme includes a pathway to the NFQ Level 9 MSc Computer Science (Conversion) programme.
What will I study?
This programme has been specifically designed for graduate students of disciplines other than Computer Science. No prior knowledge of programming is assumed. During the first two semesters, students take modules with learning outcomes aimed at providing fundamental skills required by modern technology companies. In the summer, the work placement allows students to apply the skills learned in the taught modules in a more significant project and to see where these skills can play a role in industry.
The structure of the programme is as follows:
Modules and topics shown are subject to change and are not guaranteed by UCD.
How do I apply?
Entry Requirements
- This programme is intended for applicants who do not have a Computer Science or ICT background. An Upper Second class honours degree (NFQ level 8), or the international equivalent, in another discipline is required for entry. (In exceptional circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree (2:2 grade) will be considered if the applicant shows evidence of significant relevant prior experiential learning.)
- Computer Science is a mathematical subject involving logical understanding and reasoning and therefore applicants must be able to demonstrate a good knowledge of mathematics. We expect a minimum leaving cert maths result of either A2 Ordinary or C3 Higher; otherwise, we look to see if an applicant has completed, and done well in, a university level maths module.
- Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.
Applications are made via Springboard+ using the following link: (opens in a new window)https://springboardcourses.ie/details/9329
Please download our Postgraduate Reference Form to provide to your referees.
Testimonials
I chose to study the Higher Diploma in Computer Science due to the rapid growth of the IT industry to the pinnacle of both the Irish and global economy. The opportunity to excel myself with a dynamic skill and expand my interest in technology was an easy decision to make. In terms of the course, I thoroughly enjoyed learning both Java and Python programming languages, as these modules gave me an insight into a world of endless potential and possibilities, taught in a well-structured learning environment. Overall, I believe the variety of core Computer Science modules provided an insight into many streams of the fast moving IT industry, and this was perhaps the most attractive feature of the Springboard+ course. Through taking the course, I entered the interviewing process with the confidence that I was ready to begin a career in IT. The Springboard+ initiative provided me the platform on which to build a successful career.
- Neil Brennan - UCD, Higher Diploma in Computer Science (ICT Skills Conversion)
(Placed with (opens in a new window)Paddy Power)
My motivation for undertaking this course was to gain a solid foundation in computer science and be able to apply this knowledge to my research interests in genetics, a discipline where I have been an active laboratory-based researcher since 1998. Genetics has become increasingly computationally-focused and therefore, I was very keen to learn about programming, computer architecture and software development and how these underlie the analysis of large, complex biological data sets. For me, this course was the perfect introduction to computer science covering a wide variety of topics such as programming (in several different languages including Python, Java, JavaScript and HTML), computer architecture (including the organisation and function of computer hardware, cloud computing and operating systems), computer networks and the infrastructure of the Internet, the analysis and development of algorithms, web application design and development, software engineering and data analytics. Given my scientific background, my favorite module was data analytics and my research project in this module allowed me to combine my newly developed skills in Python programming with the analysis of real biological data generated by scientists at UCD. I believe that the Springboard+ course will greatly aid my career as I now have a stronger understanding of how computer science is revolutionising biology and how meaningful information can be gleaned from large-scale data sets generated in the laboratory. I now feel more confident in applying for positions in the scientific sector that require computational expertise. On another level, this course has shown me how rapid advancements in computer science impacts our day-to-day lives, a knowledge of which is highly advantageous in any career or discipline. This course was made available to me by the Springboard+ initiative, which has given me an important opportunity to upskill and improve my CV and explore new career options in the future.
- David Magee - UCD, Higher Diploma in Computer Science (ICT Skills Conversion)
(Placed with (opens in a new window)Rise Alliance)
Contact Information
Grainne Ní Nualláin
Room A0.11
UCD School of Computer Science
Belfield, Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 716 2486
Email: grainne.ninuallain@ucd.ie