Program Overview

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Digital Technology Solutions Professional (Integrated Degree Apprenticeship)

BSc (Hons)

Overview

Our Digital Technology Solutions Professional degree apprenticeship standard has been developed in partnership with regional employers to support the enhancement of digital knowledge, skills, and behaviours.

This apprenticeship is ideal for those working in a digital role within an organisation and looking to progress their skills and knowledge.

It's also a great opportunity for businesses to upskill existing and new technical experts, as apprentices will learn a diverse set of skills across areas such as software engineering, IT consultancy, business analytics, cybersecurity, data analytics, and network engineering.

In addition to the broad set of skills and knowledge gained in this course, apprentices will choose to specialise in one of the six pathways:

• Software Engineering
• IT Consultant
• Business Analyst
• Cybersecurity
• Data Analyst
• Network Engineer

This apprenticeship offers a blend of work-based learning, providing education in the theory and practice of digital technology with an emphasis on developing the knowledge and abilities to contribute to the practical and problem-solving areas of the computing industry.

Why us?

• We are the only university in the country that offers all six pathways within this apprenticeship
• This course will allow you to apply all the knowledge and skills gained from a wide range of techniques, to apply directly into your role at your organisation
• You'll have access to facilities including the Cyber Zone, Game Development Zone, Data Visualisation and AI Suite, and the Immersive Virtual Reality Zone, all of which have had recent investment

Course structure

Teaching takes place one day a week (Fridays) at the University with the remaining learning taking place at your place of work.

The course is delivered using a blended learning approach by experienced tutors using a variety of teaching styles including lectures, seminars, coaching, tutorial groups, project work, group work, and independent study.

Modules are mapped against the Digital Technology Solutions Professional apprenticeship knowledge, skills, and behaviours framework. Assessment methods include:

• Practical reports
• Presentations
• Course work
• Critical literature reviews
• Critical reports
• Project plans
• Viva
• Poster presentations

You'll go through an ‘End Point Assessment (EPA)’ following the successful completion of all course modules.

Throughout the apprenticeship you'll take part in regular meetings called tripartite reviews, providing an opportunity for your academic tutor and your work-based mentor to support you through your studies.

Year 1 (Level 4)

• Networks and Network Operating Systems (30 credits)

This module is an introduction to networking and networking operating systems where you'll identify key components of a network system and their operating system. You'll gather basic understanding of networking protocols and be able to set up and troubleshoot hardware and software problems.

• Software Development Principles (30 credits)

Developing high-quality software requires more than just coding skills. This practical module explores a wide range of software engineering techniques and industry practices, designed to promote the production of high-quality, efficient, reliable, and secure software. You'll be introduced to algorithms with a focus on Sorting (e.g., bubble, quick, heap), Searching (e.g., breadth-first and depth-first) and Merging (e.g., Simple and K-way).

• Data Analytics and Database Systems (30 credits)

Identify organisational information requirements and model data solutions using conceptual data modelling techniques. Develop skills in designing and implementing a database solution using industry-standard database management systems. Perform database administration tasks, manage data effectively, and learn about the key concepts of data quality and data security. Understand how organisations can use data analytics to support them in making decisions using data dashboards for example.

• Full Stack Development (30 credits)

Gain an introduction to web technologies exploring both front-end and back-end web development. Understand the technologies used to develop a dynamic web application and set up a web server. Understand how to install, configure, and deploy a turn-key full-stack development solution.

Year 2 (Level 5)

• Agile Development and DevOps (30 credits)

Develop knowledge and an understanding of agile and DevOps within modern software development which will build on the software development skills you've previously attained. Design, develop, and test a software product you'll then deploy.

• Data Governance and Compliance (30 credits)

Build on the foundational concepts of systems security introduced within Networks and Network Operating systems. Understand the technical, legal, and business issues involved in developing and implementing secure systems. Explore the concept of risk, threats, vulnerabilities, and attack vectors, taking into account authentication and authorisation and access control in an environment of Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability (CIA).

• Practical Project Management (30 credits)

Work with other apprentices on a project to develop an application for a charity or company through the development life cycle. The project will be assessed as a group and individually, with marks recorded for the group assessment being peer-reviewed.

• Cyber Security in Business (30 credits)

Investigate case studies of cybersecurity incidents relating to businesses, where social factors such as social engineering, oversharing, and phishing attacks have played a major part. Design and create a secure system and understand how factors can influence security risks and how these have progressed with time.

Year 3 (Level 6)

• Applied Artificial Intelligence (30 credits)

Gain an introduction to AI and AI techniques and how they can be used to solve problems in society, industry, and research. The development of AI and programming languages over the years has supported industry with decision-making.

• IT Service Management and Consultancy (30 credits)

IT Service Management (ITSM) is concerned with delivering maximum value to a business in its use of IT and IT processes. The types of service that may be provided are infrastructure, applications, and business processes and all can be managed in-company or outsourced. Examples of IT Services are: Data Storage, Cloud Computing, Database Management, Secure Network Set Up, and General Software Support. IT Service Management involves supporting businesses of all sizes to ensure their IT Services run smoothly and to have minimum downtime while overseeing security, backing up data, fixing bugs, etc.

• Digital Technology Project (30 credits)

Develop a mini project that showcases some of the knowledge, skills, and behaviours you have acquired through the apprenticeship, alongside an e-portfolio of your evidence.

• Digital Technology End Point Assessment (30 credits)

Undertake the End Point Assessment (EPA), the final stage of the course. Having successfully completed all other modules on the course and gained 360 academic credits, prior to this module you'll have your eligibility to go through the EPA Gateway confirmed by your employer, with the advice of the University.

Submit your non-assessed portfolio at the Gateway point. You'll then enter the EPA phase, which must be completed within three months of the Gateway. The EPA has two assessment methods: a project report with presentation, questions and answers, and a professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio.

Facilities

This course is based at the David Goldman Technology Centre, a high-tech computing environment with strong links to business.

Entry requirements

We don’t currently display entry requirements for Ireland. Please contact the Student Admin team on or .

The programme is work-based and is subject to the apprentice being employed by an organisation throughout the programme. The employer must confirm that apprentices comply with the apprentice eligibility criteria, including funding requirements.

Entrants to the degree apprenticeship will usually have gained the equivalent of 112 UCAS tariff points in relevant subject areas or relevant work experience.

Applicants aged 16-18 at the start of their programme must hold GCSEs in Maths and English at a minimum of Grade C or numerical grade 4 to 9 (or equivalent), or be willing to work towards achieving this before the programme end date. This will be reviewed and discussed as part of the initial assessment process.

Apprentices who begin their training at age 19 or older are no longer required to achieve English and Maths qualifications to complete their apprenticeship. Employers now have the discretion to determine whether these qualifications are necessary for their apprentices' roles. They may choose to include them as an entry requirement or integrate them into the training programme if considered relevant.

Fees and finance

Larger organisations can use their apprenticeship levy and government top-up to pay tuition and professional fees of higher apprenticeships. For smaller employers, the government pays 95%, with the remainder co-invested by the business.

For a discussion around your specific requirements please call or email .

This information was correct at the time of publication.

Career ready

Our degree apprenticeships can be the start of your exciting new career. They will enable you to gain a degree, while also gaining invaluable 'on the job' experience. Studying an apprenticeship means:

• Work full-time with an employer that values staff development
• Gain in-depth industry-relevant skills and experience
• Earn a salary at the same time you're studying
• Get the support you need to plan and realise your future career aspirations
• Achieve a nationally recognised qualification
• Study tuition-free as costs are covered by your employer and/or government funding

Related courses

• BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics with Integrated Foundation Year
• BSc (Hons) Network Systems Engineering (Top-Up)
• Engineering Practice