FIT-IT Maintenance & Support
(Computer Systems & Networks)

INTRODUCTION:

If you have been unemployed for some time or wish to retrain or reskill to return to the workplace then this is the course for you. If you would like to become an IT technician involved in installation, repair and maintenance of equipment you can gain a solid foundation in these skills coupled with IT technical support and an introduction to the security area. Study in a supported mentored environment to release your potential. Students participate in site visits.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

• Long term unemployed with no previous educational qualification higher than FETAC/QQI Level 4; applicants should be aged 21 and over and in receipt of social welfare payment.
• CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English.
• Applications through FIT at (021) 2428755, www.fit.ie or contact your Local Intreo Centre.
• Application can also be made directly to the college, through the college website. All applicants are interviewed. An offer of a place on this course is contingent on the applicant meeting the entry requirements set out here and satisfactory presentation at interview.

DURATION:

September to May.

FEES:

€50 including QQI examination fees (Medical card holders exempt from €50). See fees & payment for details.

CERTIFICATION

• QQI Level 5 Certificate in Computer Systems and Networks (5M0536).
• Manual Handling Training and Certification.

COURSE CONTENT

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.
• Cloud Computing (online) – Achieve a digital credential with IBM SkillsBuild that demonstrates knowledge of cloud computing, including cloud services, deployment models, virtualization, orchestration, and cloud security. The individual is aware of cloud benefits for users and businesses. The individual has a conceptual understanding of how to create a container, deploy a web app to the cloud, and analyze security in a simulated environment. The earner is aware of the job outlook in cloud computing and 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.
• FIT employment supports – Includes CV workshops, interview skills and mock interviews to give the students the necessary skills to attain employment.

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:

MTU Cork

• IT Management (MT805).
• Software Development (MT700 and MT800).

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

This course opens many employment opportunities for students. Graduates are well placed to take up positions in IT repair outlets, as network technicians and in the IT departments of many organisations. Graduates can also apply for internship programmes.