Course Summary
Computing is an exciting, fulfilling career choice. We do recognise, however, that it can be difficult to fully appreciate the differences between different computing programmes. We also believe that there is no better way to help students make that decision than by experiencing a range of computing modules. For this reason, all our computing programmes share a common first year. These modules provide an excellent foundation but more importantly they help students confirm which programme is right for them.
The Higher Certificate in Computing is a two year programme where students begin in this shared first year alongside all other computing students across our programmes. At the end of Year 1, we counsel students on their next step, offering the following programmes to join:
Computer Networks and Cyber Security
After Year 2, students may choose to continue their study in that computer programme to acquire a Level 7 ordinary degree or beyond, to a Level 8 honours degree (all but Games Development offer a Level 8 degree).
This is an extremely hands on degree with lots of time spent in computer labs creating programs and solving problems. The aim is to teach students how to use industry standard tools and techniques and then explain the concepts behind them. Creativity, problem solving, persistence and critical thinking are key skills which are developed during the course.
Our team of lecturers have students as their number one priority. Small class sizes and a hands-on approach means that help and guidance is available when needed.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
This programme in computing allows students to complete a wide variety of computing modules in Year 1 and gives them a choice of modules in Years 2. Students may also choose to specialise in another discipline as mentioned above, due to the common first year.
YEAR 1
Students take modules in Programming, Mathematics, Computer Systems and Networking, Web and App Design, User Experience, Personal Development and Internet of Things. This gives them a broad overview of computing and equips them to select their electives in future years.
YEAR 2
Modules in Programming, Mathematics, Cloud Computing and Database Management. Students choose two electives each semester, from Networking or Software Development. The cloud computing module includes certification from Amazon Web Services.
IRELAND AND THE ICT SECTOR
The sector’s traditional players with long-established operations – such as Intel, HP, IBM, Microsoft and Apple, have been joined by newer firms leading the way in the internet and social media revolution, including Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, Amazon, PayPal, eBay and Twitter. Their arrival has firmly positioned Ireland as the internet capital of Europe.
- Over 105,000 people are employed in the technology sector in Ireland, with approximately 70% of those employed by FDI companies.
- ICT Exports are worth €72 billion per annum (40% of total national exports).
- 4 of the top 5 exporters in Ireland are technology companies
- Nine of the world’s top 10 ICT companies are located in Ireland and the IDA supports over 200 FDI firms in this sector.
Ireland is the also the European data centre location of choice for world leaders including IBM, Microsoft, Google, Yahoo, MSN and Adobe and is poised to become a global cloud centre of excellence.
The sector’s wide-ranging activities include Software Development, R&D, Business Services and EMEA/International headquarters.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for CAO courses at ATU Sligo are available for download below:
Career Opportunities
A qualification in computing offers countless employment opportunities both in Ireland and abroad. Recent government reports have highlighted a skills shortage in computing. This has resulted in an increase in graduate wages. The average graduate wage is now over €30k whilst some of our recent graduates have commanded wages of almost €45k.
Graduates work in Ireland and internationally in roles such as software developers, software quality assurance personnel, systems engineers, telecoms engineers, database developers, database administrators and more, commanding high salaries.
The programme content has been designed to equip students with the technological skills employers are seeking. Our graduates are work ready. We have also listened to employers and incorporated soft skills such as team work, project management and presentation skills in our programme.
Matthew McMeekin graduated from our Department of Computing and now works for Amazon. "I met with Amazon at the ATU Sligo Careers Fair. Shortly after this, I completed my application and received a job offer as a Graduate Cloud Support Associate before I had finished my studies. My starting salary was €44,600."
Further Study
Students from our Level 6 Higher Certificate in Computing may progress to the final year of our Level 7 BSc in Computing.
Level 7 graduates may progress to a Level 8 honours degree. Graduates from a Level 8 honours degree may progress to a range of Level 9 and Level 10 postgraduate studies such as the MSc in Computing (Data Science) here at ATU Sligo.
Testimonials
Hear what graduates and employers have to say about Computing at ATU Sligo.
Did you know?
We offer this programme at Level 8 - AU955 BSc (Hons) in Computing and Level 7 - AU845 BSc in Computing
New high-tech computer teaching labs will open at ATU Sligo in 2023 and give students access to the latest advancements in technology.
All our Computing degrees have a common first year. Students study a wide range of computing modules to give them an understanding of all aspects of computing and the flexibility to change direction in year two if desired. Students can choose from Computing, Computer Networks and Cyber Security, Software Development or Games Development
This is an extremely hands on programme with lots of time spent in computer labs creating programs and solving problems. The aim is to teach students how to use industry standard tools and techniques and then explain the concepts behind them. Creativity, problem solving, persistence and critical thinking are key skills which are developed during the course.
Our team of lecturers have students as their number one priority. Small class sizes and a hands-on approach means that help and guidance is available when needed.
Alumni
“Studying computer science is a great way to learn how to solve problems in a logical and innovative way. After completing my work placement within industry, I’ve realised that the course has taught me all the skills that will help me throughout my career. It’s amazing to see how much you can do with a single line of code. My final year project was a smart mirror that will show you more than just your reflection.”
Rubab Ramzan, BSc (Hons) in Computing graduate and Software Engineer with Overstock
Course Format
Semester 1
| Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems | 05 |
| Personal Development | 05 |
| Introduction to Programming 1 | 10 |
| Design Thinking | 05 |
| Mathematics 1 | 05 |
Semester 2
| Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Internet of Things | 05 |
| Operating Systems and Networks | 05 |
| Introduction to Programming 2 | 10 |
| Mathematics 2 | 05 |
| Web Design Fundamentals | 05 |
Semester 3
Semester 4
[E] = Elective Module. Modules subject to availability.