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Brochure : Overview of Programme
The Higher Diploma is a 1 year vocational programme which provides focused technical training in software development techniques, tools and essential academic foundations.
The skills developed here are intended to supplement the qualifications already acquired by students in their undergraduate degrees. Graduates will therefore be able to compete effectively for positions both in the software development industry and equally in other sectors, related to their original degree, where information technology is becoming increasingly important.
The programme is open to candidates with little or no IT experience, who have obtained a level 7 primary degree or equivalent. A background in a numerate discipline is desirable. Eligible candidates may be required to take an aptitude test/or attend for interview.
Students that show good results throughout the academic year and who achieve a 2.1. minimum result may opt to transfer to the second year of the M.Sc. (Software Design & Development) (subject to places being available).
There may be a limitation on places available.
The course extends over 1 academic year ( full time).
Closing Date for receipt of completed applications has been extended.
Subject List includes 9 core and grouped optional modules (worth a combined 8 ECTS)
Options (subject to availability)
The fees for non-EU students for the previous academic year were approximately €13,500 Fees for the upcoming year have not yet been finalised.
This programme is supported by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) under their Graduate Skills Conversion Programme, resulting in a reduced fee for European Union citizens. This is subject to review each year.
Applications to this programme can be made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC) http://www.pac.ie/.
H.Dip SwD&D Programme Director (enquiries about academic matters):
michael.schukat
nuigalway.ie
The Fees Office (EU and non-EU citizens):
http://www.nuigalway.ie/student-fees/
Overseas Students Office (:
http://www.nuigalway.ie/international/
A: No. In fact, many of our successful graduates had very little or no computing experience when they started the course. However, any computing experience you do have will certainly assist your application. It is imperative that anyone on the course without any previous computing experience starts working very seriously from day one.
A: The higher diploma entry requirements are not overly strict. If you have some significant logic or problem-solving or maths or computing element in your degree then you are eligible. For example, if as part of your degree you had courses in Economics then that would do. It is however essential that you do have a primary (batchelor's) degree.
A: Assuming you are eligible to apply, your chances of acceptance depend on (a) your academic background: your results are probably more important than the actual courses you took; (b) how many other people apply - this varies from year to year; (c) any relevant (problem solving / computing) work experience; (d) how you fill out the application form: there are sections in it for you to sell yourself to us. You should take these very seriously; (e) depending on whether we run interviews or aptitude tests, these would obviously have a bearing also.
A: Should you be offered a place on the programme, you will be requested to secure your place with a €500 deposit. You will not have to make any further payments until you actually start the programme and register. Registration will take place in September/October.
Email
michael.schukat
nuigalway.ie for more information.
