Course Overview

This fully online diploma provides a focused programme of study in the area of software design and development, providing an insight into technical skills and modern industry techniques. Computer programming and design are taught in the diploma, as well as a number of important software engineering methodologies.

Mode of Study: Online Learning - please visit our Online Learning webpage for further details on what is required to be an online learner.

Next Level Skillnet Logo

This course has been approved by Next Level Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 40% for students whose company is a member of their network. For more information, contact:
Next Level Skillnet – Sue Davies at: sue@nextlevel.ie

This course is also available through Springboard, find out more here.

You may also be interested in one of our other School of Computer Science postgraduate programmes.

Applications and Selections

 

Application date: To be confirmed

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Applications System. This course is listed under Adult Learning & CPD Courses Application.

Please visit our How to Apply page for Application tips and Supporting Documents information. Software Engineering students are required to submit a current Curriculum Vitae along with other supporting documentation in their application.

Who Teaches this Course

Requirements and Assessment

This course is delivered entirely using online learning technology so students can study when and where they want according to a paced learning cycle. Course materials are easy to follow and are accompanied by continuous assessment exercises, research/review questions and recommended course textbooks. Modules are delivered one at a time, over an eight-week period via asynchronous online technologies using web-supported learning.

The programme facilitators provide a recommended outline of study for each of the eight-week modules to ensure students keep on track. Each module is individually assessed by online examinations and assignments. All assessments and examinations take place within the eight-week period.

There are no live teaching sessions, rather set tasks to be completed by specified days of the week, removing the requirement to be online at any particular time. Support will be provided to students to help them become familiar with the online learning environment. The assessments take the form of weekly online discussions and assignments, and a final online examination at the end of each eight-week module.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

You are eligible to apply if you have a 3rd level qualification of Level 7 or higher on the National Framework of Qualifications - NFQ. A qualification from any discipline is acceptable since this is a conversion course and it begins with the basics. 2-3 years of experience (in any field) improves your chances of being accepted. Good computer skills and an interest in software knowledge are required prerequisites before starting an IT Online course. An IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent international qualification will be required, if applicable. If you have an international qualification you can compare your qualifications to the Irish system, please refer to Academic Entry Requirements

The following website may also be consulted for further information: Recognition of foreign qualifications

Applicants who do not satisfy these academic entry requirements can apply for this course through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), follow this FAQ RPL for assistance.

Additional Requirements

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Duration

1 year, part-time online

Next start date

September 2024

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

45

QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes

Closing Date
NFQ level

8

Mode of study

Online Learning

ECTS weighting

30

Award

Diploma in Software Engineering, University of Galway

CAO

Course code

DIP-DSE

Course Outline

Timetable 2023/24

This course is part-time and runs over one year. You will study one online module every eight weeks. Modules include:

  • Computer Architecture and Operating Systems [CORE]
  • Fundamentals of Programming [CORE]
  • Software Engineering [CORE]
  • Object Oriented Programming [CORE]
  • Distributed Systems and the Cloud
  • Artificial Intelligence

CORE modules are those which you must take. All other modules are electives and you must choose one.

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Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

The software industry includes businesses involved in the development, maintenance and publication of computer software, as well as software services such as training, documentation, and consulting. At the heart of this industry is the activity of actually building and producing computer software, which is the emphasis of this diploma. Opportunities for software developers are excellent within Ireland and internationally.

Who’s Suited to This Course

This is an ideal course for students who wish to:

  • Update their software development and ICT skills
  • Study in a flexible, online environment
  • Engage with an interesting and challenging curriculum
  • Improve their employability by re-skilling in the area of software development
  • Develop key professional skills of critical thinking, problem-solving and communications skills

Learning Outcomes

Transferable Skills Employers Value

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€4,780 p.a. (including levy) * 2024/25

Fees: Tuition

€4,710 p.a. 2024/25

Fees: Student levy

€70 p.a. 2024/25

Fees: Non EU

€5,350 p.a. (€5,420 p.a. including levy) 2024/25

 

*Next Level Skillnet funding (40% fee subsidy) is available for this course. You also may be eligible for the Adult Learning Tuition Scholarship, find out more

Find out More

Postgraduate Scholarships