• » Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (Conversion course into Computing)

    Programme Title  Higher Diploma in Science in Computing (Conversion course into Computing)
    CAO Code  
    LYIT internal code  LY_KCOMP_G
    Duration  3 semesters – 2 evenings per week
    Standard Code Places:  20
    National Framework Level  8
    Award Type  Major
    Awarding Body  LYIT, under Delegated Authority from HETAC

    This is a level 8 honours-degree-equivalent conversion-style Higher Diploma in Computing designed to take graduates in non-computing fields and cross-skill them to allow them to begin a career in the computing industry.

    Is this Programme for Me?
    Letterkenny Institute of Technology has obtained approval to run a part-time (two evenings per week) level 8 honours-degree-equivalent conversion-style Higher Diploma in Computing. The objective of the course is to take graduates in non-computing fields and augment their skills and knowledge in readiness to begin a career in the computing industry. It is designed to ensure that graduates are given both a base for continuing self-development and a set of skills which are transferable to the broader computing industry. These skill sets are reinforced with a strong emphasis on teamwork. The main aim of the course is to produce graduates with the required theoretical and hands-on skills to allow them to work and participate effectively in a commercial IT environment.
    Minimum Academic Entry Requirements
    All applicants who meet the minimum entry requirements of an honours degree or equivalent in a non-computing discipline are eligible to apply by Direct entry to Letterkenny Institute of Technology.
    Applicants who are in receipt of social welfare for at least 6 months prior to starting the course or are entitled to statutory redundancy from their most recent employer may not have to pay fees. Information on grants and Back To Education benefits can be obtained from the Admissions Office at Letterkenny IT on 074 918 6122. Other qualified applicants are also welcome but may be liable for fees. The course begins in September each year.
    Please find the Direct Entry application form on the following link
    What will I have to study?
    Year/Semester Proposed Modules,
    subject to approval    		 Mandatory/
    Elective    		 No of credits Class hours per week
     1/1  Computer Systems Mandatory  10  4
     Software Design 1 Mandatory  10  4
     1/2  Software Design 1 Mandatory  10  4
     Database Technology Mandatory  10  4
     2/1  Software Engineering Mandatory  10  4
     Internet Applications Development and Project Mandatory  10  4
    Learning Outcomes
    On completion of this programme the graduate will be able to:
    • Analyse and evaluate information and based on that information be able to formulate and appraise solutions;
    • Make decisions and justify those decisions in relation to the task;
    • Draw on ‘best practice’ in their decision making process;
    • Design and development of computer systems;
    • Plan and organise work and interact effectively as part of a team;
    • Develop and formalise original ideas using a range of tools;
    • Demonstrate proficiency in a range of specialist computing skills required for working in a commercial computing environment.
    Are there follow-up Programmes Available?
    Progression to programs leading to Masters Degree (taught or by research) or a Doctoral Degree (by research), is available internally at LYIT or through a range of other institutes of technology and universities in Ireland and abroad. Progression internationally to some second cycle (e.g. ‘Bologna Masters’) degree programs is possible.
    Career Opportunities
    Currently employment prospects for computing graduates remains healthy. The most recent reports on employment in the Irish economy commissioned since the beginning of the current economic down-turn continue to point to the strength of the IT sector in Ireland and abroad and the positive opportunities for employment in the sector. IT Services continue to be one of the growth areas in the Irish economy with growth in IT Services exports continuing to grow throughout the past year.
    Financial Support for Students Taking This Course.
    If you are unsure if you qualify for financial support for fees feel free to contact LYIT for further information.
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
    • Contact Thomas Dowling, Head of Department of Computing, Letterkenny Institute of Technology by
    • E- Mail: thomas.dowling@lyit.ie
    • Telephone: (074) 918 6304