Computer Science
(Computer Systems & Networks)
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INTRODUCTION:
This course provides the student with core skills required in computer science for both industry and higher education. The student will learn how to upgrade hardware, and how to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues. The student will also examine the back-end of an Operating System, including configuration and fault management. Students participate in site visits. This course prepares the student for a career demanding specialist knowledge of programming and networking and serves well for a career in the computer science industry and is equally successful as a pre university course as many of our students progress.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
- Leaving Certificate with at least a pass grade in mathematics or relevant computer experience.
- Mature students are exempt from Leaving Cert requirement.
- CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English.
- All applicants will undergo a processing stage during which further information will be gathered in relation to their application. An offer of a place on this course is contingent on the applicant meeting the entry requirements set out here and satisfactory completion of the processing stage.
DURATION:
September to May.
FEES:
€350 including QQI examination fees (Medical card holders exempt from €50). See fees & payment for details.
CERTIFICATION
- QQI Certificate in Computer Systems and Networks (5M0536).
COURSE CONTENT
Operating Systems - 5N2928
Install and configure a desktop Operating System, and use system utilities to manage faults, system components, and directories. Configure disk partitions, set a multi-boot and learn how to eliminate possible threats to your system.
Networking Essentials - 5N2929
Connect digital devices using private, non-routable IPv4 addressing, and test connectivity using diagnostic tools. Build and deploy a LAN, and implement and manage network resources.
Computer Systems Hardware - 5N0548
Examine the different types of computers currently available. Explore the inside of a computer, and learn about CPUs, storage, memory and more, and how all these interact. Learn how to troubleshoot, and to improve a computer’s performance.
Virtualisation Support - 5N2434
Construct and configure virtual components and networks, including client and server virtualisation.
Programming and Design Principles - 5N2927
Learn the fundamentals of programming including conditional statements, iterations and methods, using Java (IDE: Eclipse), and the importance of programs being to industry standard at the front end and the back end. Use TestNG to test applications.
Maths for Information Technology - 5N18396
Acquire mathematical skill in problem solving and mathematical investigations in the following areas: basic arithmetic and algebra, set theory and Boolean logic, functions and calculus , geometry and trigonometry, probability and statistics, and algorithms and computations.
Communications - 5N0690
Acquire the writing skills needed for the workplace, learn to speak fluently and coherently in a professional setting, develop interpersonal skills and have an understanding of the impact of ICT on society.
Work Experience - 5N1356
Planning, preparation and reflection on work placement. Job finding strategies, CV and personal statement preparation, interview skills. Practice employability skills with a view to future planning. Students will go on a 2-week work placement.
Students will be given the opportunity to sit the VMware Certified Associate
Students will be given the opportunity to sit the VMware Certified Associate – Digital Business Transformation (VCA-DBT) exam (optional).
ADDITIONAL TRAINING / WORKSHOPS
- Cybersecurity Security Fundamentals (online)– Students will be given the opportunity to complete this course online with IBM SkillsBuild and earn a digital badge. The badge demonstrates a foundational understanding of cybersecurity concepts, objectives, and practices. This includes cyber threat groups, types of attacks, social engineering, case studies, overall security strategies, cryptography, and common approaches that organizations take to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber attacks. This also includes an awareness of the job market. Badge earners can use this knowledge to pursue further education for a variety of roles in cybersecurity.
- UX Design (online) – Students will be given the opportunity to complete this course online with IBM SkillsBuild and earn a digital badge. This badge demonstrates knowledge of UX design concepts, processes, and tools that UX designers use. The individual has a conceptual understanding of user personas, wireframes, prototypes, usability testing, working collaboratively with a UX design team, and has experience reviewing a UX design case study to make conclusions about redesigning a website. The earner is aware of the job outlook in UX design and is familiar with the skills required for success in various roles.
- Introduction to GDPR – This course gives learners an overview of GDPR. The workshop examines what GDPR stands for and gives an understanding of the current data protection rules and obligations. The learners also receive information on the types of data, the terminology associated with GDPR, the penalties with breaches, storage of data and general do’s and don’ts regarding data. A Certificate of Completion is issued on completion.
- Manual Handling Training and Certification – This training programme is aimed at providing all persons at work with proper techniques when lifting, carrying, loading, pushing and supporting. It provides employees with good work practices such as proper lift Manual Handling Techniques. The course includes being aware of the necessity for safe methods of manual handling to reduce the risk of injury and understanding the need to avoid manual handling by using mechanical aids where possible. Furthermore, assessing the task using the TILE criteria (task, individual, load, environment) and implementing the correct method of lifting ensuring minimal risk to self and co-workers will also be included. Finally, knowing how to safely execute all relevant workplace manual handling tasks will be demonstrated. A certificate will be issued to learners who successfully complete the course.
FAQs
Where can I progress after completing this year?
You can progress to Software Development Level 6 here or go to our progressions page to see a full list of progressions.
What programming language will I be studying?
JAVA.
What are my chances of getting a job on successful completion of this year?
Some students do get a job after successfully getting their Level 5 award. However, it is usually in a junior position. Most of our students progress to study on a degree course.
Can I complete this course by night?
No. There are some IT modules available by night, but these are mostly leisure courses and do not lead to a qualification.
Are there any IT courses available that don't include programming?
Yes. Have a look at our IT Tech. Support course and our FIT – IT Maintenance and Support course.
I have already completed some of these modules at Level 5. Can I be exempt?
It depends. If you completed the modules pre 2015, you can’t get an exemption as the computing awards changed in 2015 and the old modules, though they might have similar content, are seen as different to the new modules and for this reason you cannot get an exemption.
If you completed the modules after 2015, you can apply for an exemption.
What is the timetable?
The timetable will be available at the end of August/beginning of September.
Is this a full-time course or can I complete it part-time?
This is a full-time day course and cannot be completed part-time.
I have never programmed before. Will I be at a disadvantage?
No. We assume that students have not programmed before and will start from the very beginning.
I'm not really sure which area of computing I'd like to end up in. Which Level 5 course would you recommend?
Computer Science is a more general course and would give you an overall understanding of the different areas of computer science.
Software Development is more focused on developing software.
IT Tech. Support does not contain a programming module.
So if you want to get a feel for many aspects of IT, you should choose Computer Science.
Is this course 100% hands on?
There is a lot of practical work, but most modules are examined with 70% practical work and 30% written examination.
When does the course begin?
The course begins in September and final exams are held in May.
WORK PLACEMENT / EXPERIENCE
Students will undertake a block work placement of 2 weeks in the IT area.
Students are encouraged to source their own Work Placement but you will be supported by the Work Placement team should you need assistance to do this.
EDUCATION PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES
Some of our popular progression opportunities include:
Morrison’s Island Campus
MTU Cork
- IT Management (MT805).
- Software Development (MT700 and MT800).
Inholland (Haarlem, The Netherlands)
- Entry to year 1 of all internatinal programmes, including B. Sc. Mathematical Engineering.
UCC
- BIS (CK203).
- Computer Science (CK401).
- Psychology and Computing (CK121).
Excellent progression opportunities to other Higher Education colleges. Special arrangements in place with MTU Cork (CCPS), MTU Kerry and SETU (Waterford & Carlow) for preferential entry for students of Morrisons Island locations. Go to our progressions database for exact requirements on progressions for this course.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
On successful completion of a full award, the student can apply for an entry level position as a programmer, a computer technician or provide virtual support for cloud computing. The student is also very employable as an IT support operator, especially in the area of troubleshooting general software, hardware and networking problems.
CONTACT DETAILS:
Email: computing@morrisonsislandcampus.ie
Tel: (021) 4223 834