Computing

Higher Certificate in Science

Course Details

CAO Code	AU725
Level	6
Duration	2 Years
CAO Points	174 (2024)
Method of Delivery	On-campus
Campus Locations	Sligo
Mode of Delivery	Full Time

Apply now How to Apply

Course Overview

Computing is an exciting, fulfilling career choice. However, we recognise 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: Computing, Computer Networks and Cyber Security, Software Development or Games Development.

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 that involves lots of time spent in computer labs creating programs and solving problems. New high-tech computer teaching labs opened at ATU Sligo in early 2024. These give students access to the latest advancements in technology.

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 that 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.

This computing programme allows students to complete a wide variety of computing modules in Year 1 and gives them a choice of modules in Year 2 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 also the European data centre location of choice for world leaders, including IBM, Microsoft, Google, Yahoo, MSN and Adobe. It 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.

Course Details

Year 1

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Computer Systems The goal of the module is to provide students with the necessary skills to understand the workings and architectures of the CPU and motherboard. To investigate the link between modern CPUs' and virtualisation and Cloud computing. To troubleshoot and repair a desktop computer system. To provide students with the necessary skills to manipulate number systems. Learning Outcomes 1. Describeand understand how to manipulate Number Systems. 2. Explain and describe the workings of Motherboards. 3. Establish knowledge on the workings of a CPU. 4. Demonstrate the workings of Main Memory.	05	Mandatory
1	Personal Development This module is designed to introduce students to the higher education environment and to assist them to develop learning, study and communication skills early in their undergraduate career. The module will support students to develop a more independent, reflective and self-managed approach to study, learning, and time management. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop an independent, reflective and self-managed approach to study, reinforced by goal setting. 2. Build confidence in interpersonal skills. 3. Analyse key influences on the information technology sector. 4. Demonstrate skills appropriate to higher education such as, though not limited to: academic writing and critical thinking.	05	Mandatory
1	Introduction to Programming 1 The course shall introduce students the fundamentals of problem solving and programming. During the course, the student will gain knowledge and understanding in problem-solving, the software development lifecycle, development tools and the ability to write programs that make use of fundamental programming constructs. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain programming evolution, terms and development process. 2. Solve problems and develop computer programs in a systematic manner . 3. Write and compile programs that make use of input and output, assignment and arithmetic operators, string manipulation, selection and repetition structures 4. Write programs that make use of modularisation. 5. Demonstrate the need for and write programs that use arrays. 6. Create Git repositories, store to Github and work with commits	10	Mandatory
1	Design Thinking Design Thinking is a human-centered design methodology that provides a solution-based approach to solving problems. It integrates the needs of people, the possibilities of technology, and the requirements for a viable business success model. Design Thinking draws upon logic, imagination, intuition, and systemic reasoning, to explore the possibilities of what could be, and to create desired outcomes that benefit the end user (the client, customer). Learning Outcomes 1. carry out and apply design research 2. demonstrate creative and playful thinking around design problems, issues and opportunities 3. show the application of visual literacy and relevant tools to help express design decisions 4. apply an awareness of the design thinking process in a wide range of contexts from the personal to the global	05	Mandatory
1	Mathematics 1 This subject aims to develop essential Mathematical skills for students in the computing area. The fundamental skills of numerical and algebraic competence is covered in the initial part of the module. A section on summary statistics follows. In the latter part of the module time is spent on introducing and developing competence in the areas of symbolic logic and set theory. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate numerical competence. 2. Demonstrate competence in algebraic manipulations and solve equations. 3. Organise, summarise and analyse data. 4. Apply propositional logic. 5. Show competence in the use of set operations.	05	Mandatory
2	Internet of Things Physical, real-world things are becoming increasingly visible and actionable via Internet and Web technologies. Propelled by dramatic decreases in technology costs, a proliferation of sensors, improved connectivity including between devices, the market is estimated to grow to €10bn world-wide by 2022. This includes cell-phones, washing machines, jet engines and soon, humans. The goal of the module is to look top-down as well as bottom-up, to provide students with a practical understanding of the Internet of Things and the forms it can take – human-to-human, human-to-device and device-to-device. By looking at a variety of real-world application scenarios of the IoT and diverse implemented applications, the various understandings and requirements of IoT applications become apparent. This allows students to understand what IoT technologies are used for today, and what is required in certain scenarios. Students will be given the opportunity to apply these technologies to tackle scenarios of their choice using an experimental platform for implementing prototypes and testing them as running applications. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the term internet of things and describe some current and potential applications and the different technologies employed. 2. Use a microprocessor with local sensor data to produce outputs. 3. Establish and troubleshoot network/device connectivity (fixed and wireless) between IoT components (microcontrollers, sensors, actuators). 4. Produce an application which interacts with the internet either by taking data from a sensor and pushing it to the cloud using an existing web service or allowing the user to control an output device via a microprocessor.	05	Mandatory
2	Operating Systems and Networks The module provides an overview of the major components of an operating system and network. The concepts are re-inforced with practical laboratory exercises to develop practical operating systems skills and networking skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the major components of an operating system 2. Control the behavior of an operating system through command line interface 3. Describe the major components of a Network 4. Implement a simple network using switches and routers	05	Mandatory
2	Introduction to Programming 2 This module builds on the foundational programming skills previously acquired in the module Introduction to programming 1, introducing students to file handling, error handling and object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts. Through practical and applied learning, students will develop solutions to real-world problems using OOP principles. The course combines theory with hands-on lab-based activities, offering a balanced approach to deepen understanding. By the end of the module, students will be well-equipped to design robust, maintainable, and efficient software systems. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain and apply the key concepts of object oriented programming. 2. Develop programs that make use of files and collections. 3. Explain and apply robust programming techniques. 4. Make use of debugging tools to troubleshoot errors. 5. Work with Git branches, synching with remote repositories	10	Mandatory
2	Mathematics 2 This subject adds further to the Mathematical skills set for students in the computing area. The module begins with a section on relations and functions and properties associated with these. The middle section covers matrix algebra and also covers probability, combinations and permutations. In the latter stage of the module time is spent on developing competence in trigonometry, complex numbers and quaternions. Learning Outcomes 1. Distinguish and classify properties of relations and functions. 2. Show competence in performing matrix operations and solving matrix equations. 3. Demonstrate competence in calculating probabilities. 4. Utilize trigonometric functions and solve trignometric equations. 5. Demonstrate competence in the use of complex numbers and quaternions.	05	Mandatory
2	Web Design Fundamentals The ability to comprehend and implement the technologies required to build a website are a fundamental requirement for any ICT graduate. This module introduces the learner to the core concepts required to build a basic website using industry relevant tools, while concentrating on the design side. Particular emphasis will be placed on HTML and CSS. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the evolving nature of the client server model. 2. Explain the stages of the web design process. 3. Create website content using HTML. 4. Style website content using CSS.	05	Mandatory

Year 2

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Client Side Scripting Modern web applications rely on code that runs in a browser to deliver much of the interactivity available to users of websites and this module will enable students to develop scripts at the client end to provide an interactive user experience. The learner will gain a thorough knowledge of JavaScript while understanding the need for client-side scripting and its place in application development. The learner will obtain the relevant knowledge to be able to sit the MTA 'Introduction to Programming using JavaScript' Microsoft exam. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the need for client side scripting and the fundamentals of the JavaScript language 2. Debug scripts using browser debugging tools and appraise appropriate IDEs 3. Dynamically style a webpage employing knowledge of the Document and Browser Object Model 4. Consume data from an API and employ AJAX to render JSON data from a server	05	Mandatory
1	Object Oriented Programming Object Oriented Programming is a programming paradigm where data and operations can be defined together as objects and allows reuse of these objects within the same or other programs. In this module students will examine the concepts of object creation and design and implement software interfaces adhering to modern design principles which connect with data repositories. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the principles and benefits of object-oriented programming. 2. Design and develop an object oriented program from a high level specification. 3. Implement graphical user interfaces to object oriented solutions. 4. Connect data sources to object oriented solutions.	05	Mandatory
1	Introduction to Database Technology The student will be introduced to database technologies and will acquire an intermediate set of skills in database design and development. Learning Outcomes 1. Decide the appropriate database technology that should be used for a given specification 2. Design a logical model for a database from a given specification 3. Design and manage the physical structure of a database 4. Enforce data integrity using constraints, defaults, and rules 5. Interrogate a database using SQL	05	Mandatory
1	Mathematics 3 This subject adds further to the Mathematical skill set of computing students. The module begins with the student developing competence in the usage and application of various co-ordinate geometry formulae and then looks at the application of matrices to transformations of geometric objects. The middle section of the module spends time on differentiation and its applications. The final section develops competence in performing vector operations. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate competence in co-ordinate geometry calculations. 2. Apply matrix algebra to linear transformations. 3. Solve problems by determining and using derivatives. 4. Show competence in the use of partial derivatives. 5. Demonstrate competence in vector operations	05	Mandatory
1	Introduction to Networks Introduction to Networks covers networking architecture, structure, and functions. The course introduces the principles and structure of IP addressing and the fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations to provide a foundation for the curriculum. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the structure of a network, including how data flow from source to destination. 2. Define the layers of the OSI model along with theirfunctions and protocols used in the data communication process. 3. Describe and implement an IPv4 and IPv6 addressing and naming schemes in network communications 4. Install, configure and troubleshoot a simple network using routers and switches.	05	Elective
1	Linux 1 This course focuses on the basic Linux system administration skills needed. Students will gain proficiency performing maintenance tasks on the command line, installing and configuring a computer running Linux and configuring basic networking Learning Outcomes 1. Configure a Linux Systems Architecture 2. Install and Manage Linux installation and package management 3. Deploy GNU and Unix Commands 4. Manage Devices, Linux Filesystems, Filesystem Hierarchy Standard	05	Elective
1	Requirements Engineering This module sets the broader context for software development by giving an overview of alternate system development life cycles and focuses on the gathering, analysis and validation of software requirements using agile and more conventional methods. Using a practical approach, methods for requirements elicitation and documentation are introduced and explored through practical case work. Requirements documentation and modelling, using a range of techniques such as user stories and object oriented analysis techniques are also addressed. Learning Outcomes 1. Elicit user requirements 2. Document user requirements 3. Analyse and detail user requirements using a range of methods 4. Apply theory to practical problems.	05	Elective
1	Web Design and Development Web forms are the principle means by which we interact with websites. They can act as a barrier or invite people in. There are basic design principles for effective user interfaces. Students will learn these principles and how to develop websites and forms which conform to them. They will also learn how best to develop sites and forms which are easy to maintain. Learning Outcomes 1. Design and implement a web form using HTML and CSS. 2. Generate CSS, using a CSS pre-processor which is easy to maintain 3. Design and implement a responsive, accessible web site which adheres to usability standards using a framework. 4. Explain the role of form validation and apply both client and server side validation to a form.	05	Elective
2	Object Oriented Development The module will build upon an understanding of object oriented programming and software engineering principles to develop and deploy full applications embracing modern software development practices. Learning Outcomes 1. Translate a design specification into a working software application. 2. Apply design patterns in software development. 3. Organize code utilising best practices in software development. 4. Implement testing and quality assurance best practices.	05	Mandatory
2	Introduction to Database Management This module builds on the student experience of Introduction to Database Technology or similar. Now familiar with basic database components, their specification and constraints, and having applied them to an identified problem space, we now extend on the scope of this basic introduction. Students will work both individually and in groups to grapple with problems of greater complexity. The student will be introduced to database coding and will then will learn techniques and tools to optimise this code. They will also cover data security and learn about techniques and tools to secure data. Learning Outcomes 1. Configure a database to maximise data retrieval 2. Design and develop logical views of data in a database 3. Use database views to manage database security 4. Configure database views to optomise data retrieval 5. Program a database using a database procedural language	05	Mandatory
2	Mathematics 4 This subject develops further Mathematical skills and applies some of the Mathematical skill set already developed. The module begins with a look at various integration techniques. This is followed by an application of matrices in Gaussian and Gauss Jordan elimination. There is a significant section on number theory and it's application in areas such as encryption. The concept of a group and the identification of group examples used in the current and earlier modules is then looked at. Finally the module covers coding theory, again using skills already developed previously in areas such as probability and matrices. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate competence in integral calculus. 2. Solve problems using Gaussian and Gauss Jordon techniques. 3. Apply number theory. 4. Explain the concept of a group and identify examples. 5. Demonstrate competence in error deection and error correction codes	05	Mandatory
2	Routing and Switching Essentials This course describes the architecture, components, and operations of routers and switches in a small network. Students learn how to configure a router and a switch for basic functionality. By the end of this course, students will be able to configure and troubleshoot routers and switches and resolve common issues with virtual LANs and interVLAN routing in both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain, configure and troubleshoot routers to make forwarding decisions using static routing, RIP, OSPF and EIGRP 2. Explain, configure and troubleshoot a switched network in a small to medium sized business 3. Explain, configure and troubleshoot basic access control lists in a small to medium sized business 4. Explain, configure and troubleshoot NAT/PAT and DHCP in a small to medium business	05	Elective
2	Server Network Infrastructure This Module provides students with the skills necessary to install a Server Operating System and to implement and configure Server services including DNS, DHCP Files and Directory Services. Learning Outcomes 1. Installing and configure server operating systems 2. Configure server roles and features 3. Deploy and configure core network services 4. Install and administer Active Directory	05	Elective
2	Software Quality and Testing This module provides an in-depth understanding of what constitutes quality software and the critical role of rigorous testing in achieving it. Students will gain essential knowledge in software quality and the core concepts of software testing. Through both theoretical and practical learning, the course equips students to effectively contribute to a quality assurance role within a software development team, ensuring high standards in software delivery. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the fundamentals of software quality & testing 2. Classify and make use of different static testing techniques 3. Categoriseand make use of different dynamic testing techniques 4. Demonstrate a knowledge of test manangement 5. Evaluateand make use of tool support for testing	05	Elective
2	Web Programming 1 This module will introduce students to modern JavaScript development frameworks. Students will be introduced to the concepts of the frameworks and understand the need to develop web applications using these frameworks. Students will develop responsive web applications that will be cloud hosted and interact with data services. Learning Outcomes 1. Design and create responsive web pages using modern JavaScript frameworks 2. Describe the different development tools such as CLI, Git and libraries 3. Develop operations to interact with data services 4. Build a web application on a cloud service	05	Elective
2	Introduction to Cloud Computing This module will introduce the learner to the fundamentals of cloud computing. The learner will be exposed to the many services employed by a cloud service provider while understanding the benefits of provisioning computing services over the Internet. Practical experience will be obtained by configuring and deploying appropriate cloud services. This module will also include Academy Cloud Foundations (ACF) which is an AWS (Amazon Web Services) Academy course designed to provide learners with an overall understanding of the AWS Cloud, independent of specific technical roles. Learners will also be exposed to general cloud services in addition to content provided by AWS. Upon completion of this module, students will be able to undertake the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the evolution, terminology, concepts and costs related to cloud computing 2. Configure and deploy appropriate cloud service models 3. Evaluate cloud storage options, cloud compute services, cloud networking options and cloud security 4. Configure and communicate with a NoSQL cloud database 5. Analyse thebasic security and compliance aspects of the AWS platform and the shared security model	05	Mandatory

Progression

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.

Download a prospectus

Undergraduate Prospectus

Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement	5 subjects at O6/H7 English or Irish at O6/H7 Maths at O6/H7 or Foundation Maths at F2
QQI/FET Major Award Required	Any
Additional QQI/FET Requirements	C20139 or 5N1833 or C20174 or C20175 or 5N18396 or 5N0556 or Leaving Certificate Maths at 06/H7

Fees

Total Fees EU: €3000

This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.

Total Fees Non-EU: €12000

Subject to approval by ATU Governing Body (February 2025)

Further information on fees

Careers

A degree 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.’