Software Engineering

Course Overview

This fully online diploma provides a focused programme of study in the area of software design and development, providing an insight into technical skills and modern industry techniques. Computer programming and design are taught in the diploma, as well as a number of important software engineering methodologies.

This course is part-time and runs over one year. You will study one online module every eight weeks.



Modules include:

Computer Architecture and Operating Systems [CORE]

Fundamentals of Programming [CORE]

Software Engineering [CORE]

Object Oriented Programming [CORE]

Distributed Systems and the Cloud

Artificial Intelligence



CORE modules are those which you must take. All other modules are electives and you must choose one.



Year 1 (30 Credits)

Optional RPL005: Recognised Prior Learning

Optional RPL010: Recognised Prior Learning

Optional CT618: Object Oriented Design

Optional CT619: Object Oriented Programming

Optional CT621: Artificial Intelligence

Optional CT609: Fundamentals of Programming

Optional CT610: Software Engineering

Optional CT5114: Distributed Systems and The Cloud

Optional CT611: Computer Architecture and Operating Systems

You are eligible to apply if you have a 3rd level qualification of Level 7 or higher on the National Framework of Qualifications - NFQ. A qualification from any discipline is acceptable since this is a conversion course and it begins with the basics. 2-3 years of experience (in any field) improves your chances of being accepted. Good computer skills and an interest in software knowledge are required prerequisites before starting an IT Online course. An IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent international qualification will be required, if applicable. If you have an international qualification you can compare your qualifications to the Irish system, please refer to Academic Entry Requirements



The following website may also be consulted for further information: Recognition of foreign qualifications: https://www.qqi.ie/what-we-do/the-qualifications-system/national-academic-recognition-information-centre



Applicants who do not satisfy these academic entry requirements can apply for this course through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

How to apply

We encourage all applicants to apply as early as possible.



Review/Closing Dates (for Taught Programmes)

For most programmes, University of Galway does not set specific closing dates for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotas will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle with the exception of applications for some programmes which are reviewed after the specified closing date. Candidates who do not have their final degree marks available may be made a conditional (provisional) offer.



Online Application

Applications to most postgraduate programmes at University of Galway are made online via www.universityofgalway.ie/apply (see "Application Weblink")

1 year, part-time online.



This course is delivered entirely using online learning technology so students can study when and where they want according to a paced learning cycle. Course materials are easy to follow and are accompanied by continuous assessment exercises, research/review questions and recommended course textbooks. Modules are delivered one at a time, over an eight-week period via asynchronous online technologies using web-supported learning.



The programme facilitators provide a recommended outline of study for each of the eight-week modules to ensure students keep on track. Each module is individually assessed by online examinations and assignments. All assessments and examinations take place within the eight-week period.



There are no live teaching sessions, rather set tasks to be completed by specified days of the week, removing the requirement to be online at any particular time. Support will be provided to students to help them become familiar with the online learning environment. The assessments take the form of weekly online discussions and assignments, and a final online examination at the end of each eight-week module.

Next start date: September 2024.

Career Opportunities

The software industry includes businesses involved in the development, maintenance and publication of computer software, as well as software services such as training, documentation, and consulting. At the heart of this industry is the activity of actually building and producing computer software, which is the emphasis of this diploma. Opportunities for software developers are excellent within Ireland and internationally.