Software Design
Participants will build on their existing knowledge of software development. The main programming languages taught are Java and Visual Basic (VB). On this course, Java is used mainly to build mobile apps for the Android platform whereas Visual Basic is used to teach Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming. There is a strong emphasis on experiential learning with students learning by doing (rather than by observing).
| Award Name | Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Students should have successfully completed an appropriate QQI Level 5 award such as Software Development (Year 1), Computer and Network Technician (Year 1) or Computer Games Programming or Design, all available at Cavan Institute.
Equal consideration will be given to mature applicants (those aged over 23) who do not meet this entry requirement but can demonstrate relevant interest and industry experience
Careers / Further progression
Progression
Graduates are eligible to apply through the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to a range of higher certificate and degree programmes at Higher Education Institutions (please check with the particular institution regarding local eligibility requirements). Cavan Institute has a number of 'advanced entry' arrangements with a selection of Technological Universities whereby graduates who have successfully completed a level 6 course are eligible to apply for direct entry into year two of a degree programme in a related discipline.
Career Opportunities
Ireland is widely recognised as Europe's premier location for software development. Opportunities are very plentiful in the areas of computer programming, system analysis and design, software testing, technical writing, database administration, technical support as well as website design and development. Current skills shortages mean employment is virtually guaranteed, particularly for degree-level graduates.
Further information
Course commences in September 2024.
€200.
*The Post Leaving Certificate Government Levy of €200 is removed since 2022.
1. PLC Maintenance Grant
Means-tested maintenance grants are available to eligible students attending approved full-time courses of further education in approved Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) centres, of which Cavan Institute is one.
Applications can be made online to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) through www.studentfinance.ie or www.susi.ie
2. Back to Education Allowance (BTEA)
The Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) allows people in receipt of certain social welfare payments to retain those payments whilst participating in approved full-time courses in further education.
See www.welfare.ie or www.studentfinance.ie for further details.
3. Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS)
This scheme allows unemployed people aged over 21 to engage in education and training without losing their benefits. It applies to all courses offered at Cavan Institute and applicants must be in receipt of one of a number of social welfare supports for at least six months.
See www.vtos.ie for further details.
4. HEA Fund for Students with Disabilities
The Higher Education Authority’s “Fund for Students with Disabilities” allocates funding to further and higher education colleges for the provision of services and supports to full-time students with disabilities. Applications to the fund are made on behalf of an eligible student by Cavan Institute following an assessment.
How do I Apply?
On-line applications for the 2024/25 academic year are Open.
You can apply for your chosen Cavan Institute course online, by clicking “Apply Online” on our homepage. Please note you may apply to some Cavan Institute courses through the CAO system. (or view Application link above)
June 1st is the closing date for receipt of applications for first round offers. However, applications will be accepted and processed on courses where places are available following this date and second round offers will be made to eligible applicants who apply after that date.
The range of subjects on offer reflects the strong employment demands and trends that currently exist within the software sector. The inclusion of subjects such as project management, mathematics, communications and software architecture should greatly enhance employment prospects for successful graduates. The Software Development (Year 2) course includes work experience, which has led to gainful employment for many students in the past.
Project Management
Object Oriented Programming
Software Architecture
Graphical User Interface Programming
Mathematics
Relational Databases
Mobile Technologies
Systems Software
Customer Services
Work Experience
Students will also be given the opportunity to prepare for and achieve certification in Oracle Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate (novice-level certification), at no additional cost.
6M0691 - Software Development.
Certification:
QQI Level 6 Certificate in Software Development - 6M0691.
Option to achieve certification in Oracle Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate (novice-level certification)
Cavan Institute,
Cathedral Road,
Cavan,
Co. Cavan.
H12 E426
email: admin@cavaninstitute.ie
Tel: +353 49 4332633