This course is designed for professionals who have prior programming skills and want to upskill or transition into the field or cybersecurity. In this course, you will learn to:

• Master programming languages, scripting, frameworks, and tools essential for cybersecurity, focusing on secure coding, data protection, and cryptography. 
• Implement foundational concepts such as network security, data protection laws, and cybersecurity frameworks to address cyber threats. 
• Develop secure web applications using advanced coding practices, vulnerability assessment tools, and security frameworks for resilient online systems. 
• Explore AI for cybersecurity applications such as anomaly detection, threat prediction, and process automation to mitigate cyber risks proactively. 
• Design and execute projects addressing real-world, industry-focused cybersecurity challenges while adhering to ethical, legal, and regulatory standards. 
• Validate end-to-end cybersecurity solutions for modern digital environments.

The applied nature of this course sets it apart from the competition, aiming to deliver job-ready graduates. This specialised course has been meticulously designed in collaboration with industry partners and informed by feedback from employers (placement providers), and regional skills fora. We engaged with companies such as Genesys, Dell, HPE, Channel Mechanics, TitanHQ, PFH, Sky, Clubforce, Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau Galway and Wieland-Werke AG (Germany), all of whom have previously hosted interns from our various cybersecurity courses.

The course features a 'Capstone Cybersecurity Project' module aimed at equipping students for job readiness. This module bridges academic learning with real-world application, allowing students to gain hands-on experience through a capstone project.

Graduates of this programme will be equipped with job-ready specialised cybersecurity skills. Furthermore, this Professional Diploma opens the door to diverse career pathways across various industries. The key career pathways include:

• Security Platform Engineer
• ML Engineer 
• Cybersecurity Detection Engineer 
• Cybersecurity Specialists/Leads 
• Information Security, Cybersecurity, or Vulnerability Analysts 
• Penetration Tester 
• DevSecOps Engineer 
• Security Architect
• Security Risk Analyst
• Security Operations Analyst

Dr. Priyanka Verma - Programme Director

Dr. James McDermott

Dr. Malika Bendechache

Dr. Mamoona Asghar

Dr. Jamal Nasir

Online lectures/labs/tutorials comprise approximately 8 class hours per week during the evenings, Monday to Friday. A​ll lectures are pre-recorded and made available online to registered students via the University's virtual learning environment. Some modules include labs which are scheduled in the evening with direct interaction and feedback from the instructor (also via the University's virtual learning environment).  

Efforts are made to ensure that these live labs are accessible and at times that permit people in full-time employment to fully participate.

Throughout the course, your progress is assessed through various continuous assessments, including reports, assignments, presentations, and quizzes.

Online proctoring platforms may be used in some assessments, and oral examinations (online Viva) can also be used from time to time.

Gail Cassidy  
ICT Skills Conversion Courses Administrator  
Centre for Adult Learning & Professional Development
E: ictskills@universityofgalway.ie
T: 091-495241  

Programme Director: 
Dr Priyanka Verma
Lecturer 
School of Computer Science 
College of Science and Engineering 
E: Priyanka.Verma@universityofgalway.ie

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).  

Recognition of prior learning is facilitated automatically during the application phase. 

Graduates of the Professional Diploma in Applied Cybersecurity will gain the following skills: 

• Problem-solving & analytical thinking
  Ability to identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and design effective solutions
• Technical proficiency
  Strong foundation in programming, tools, and frameworks applicable across IT roles
• Risk assessment & compliance awareness
  Understanding of security, legal, and regulatory considerations
• Project management & execution
  Planning, developing, and delivering real-world technical projects
• Adaptability & digital innovation
  Applying new technologies (including AI) to solve evolving challenges
• Communication & teamwork
  Explaining technical concepts clearly and collaborating across teams

Prior programming experience is a prerequisite. The course is open to applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including Engineering, Science, IT, Mathematics, Psychology, Law, Economics, Business, and Accounting. You should have a Level 8 qualification (or equivalent) with at least a Second Class Honours from a recognised university or college. If your background is not in a numerate field, you may still be considered if you have relevant IT or technical experience.

Applicants with a Level 7 qualification can also apply if they can show they have gained Level 8 skills through at least two years of work experience in IT or a tech-related role.

NB: As this is a Springboard+ funded course, you will need to check your eligibilty here. 

As this is a Springboard+ funded course, you will need to apply through the Springboard+ website here.

NB: Please review this course's 'Entry Requirements' before applying.

The full fees for AY26/27 are €4,100 per student, however as this is a Springboard+ funded course, students who are in employment pay 10% of the fee (€410), with the remaining 90% of their course fees covered by Springboard+. Students who are not in employment (where eligible) or those who apply as Returners, have 100% of their course fees covered by Springboard+. More information is available on the Springboard+ website.