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Entry Requirements
Students should have successfully completed an appropriate QQI Level 5 award such as Software Development (Year 1), Computer and Network Technician (Year 1) or Computer Games Programming or Design, all available at Cavan Institute. Equal consideration will be given to mature applicants (those aged over 23) who do not meet this entry requirement but can demonstrate relevant interest and industry experience.
Career Opportunities
Ireland is widely recognised as Europe's premier location for software development. Opportunities are very plentiful in the areas of computer programming, system analysis and design, software testing, technical writing, database administration, technical support as well as website design and development. Current skills shortages mean employment is virtually guaranteed, particularly for degree-level graduates.
Progression
Graduates are eligible to apply through the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to a range of higher certificate and degree programmes at Higher Education Institutions (please check with the particular institution regarding local eligibility requirements). Cavan Institute has a number of 'advanced entry' arrangements with a selection of Technological Universities whereby graduates who have successfully completed a level 6 course are eligible to apply for direct entry into year two of a degree programme in a related discipline.
Course Fees
€200
Course Content
QQI Level 6 Certificate in Software Development
Project Management
Object Oriented Programming
Software Architecture
Graphical User Interface Programming
Mathematics
Relational Databases
Mobile Technologies
Systems Software
Customer Services
Work Experience
Students will also be given the opportunity to prepare for and achieve certification in Oracle Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate (novice-level certification), at no additional cost.
About This Course
Participants will build on their existing knowledge of software development. The main programming languages taught are Java and Visual Basic (VB). On this course, Java is used mainly to build mobile apps for the Android platform whereas Visual Basic is used to teach Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming. There is a strong emphasis on experiential learning with students learning by doing (rather than by observing).
The range of subjects on offer reflects the strong employment demands and trends that currently exist within the software sector. The inclusion of subjects such as project management, mathematics, communications and software architecture should greatly enhance employment prospects for successful graduates. The Software Development (Year 2) course includes work experience, which has led to gainful employment for many students in the past.
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