Program Overview

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Higher Diploma in Science in Data Analytics | Full-time

Overview

This programme has been designed to meet the ongoing need for Data Analysts throughout the workforce which can directly create added value and wealth to the Irish businesses and the society. Technological innovation applied to computing has created a wave of disruptive activity that will change the shape of the global information system over the next decade. The purpose of this programme is to provide students with advanced knowledge, critical thinking and computing skills to be able to meet the industry demands.

Aims of the Programme

• Develop learner’s ability to enhance their employment opportunities in Data Science sector.
• Enable learners to progress their ability to demonstrate advanced skills in Data Analytics.
• Develop abilities of an advanced nature in an array of Data Science disciplines.
• Contextualise newly gained practical skills in a real-world environment through placement and project work.

Objectives of the Programme

• Develop learner’s criticality in order to analyse industry trends in Big Data.
• Develop learners who are capable of performing robust, significant reports on the future orientation of the field of data analytics with specific emphasis on the problem domain.
• Provide learners with a platform to develop the requisite technical and design skills required by industry and to deepen knowledge of statistical analysis and analytical models.
• Enable learners to implement scalable Big Data applications.
• Prepare learners to work effectively and collaboratively in the execution of common goals.
• Provide work opportunities where learners can apply knowledge to a real-world situation.

Assessment Methods

Assessment will reflect the applied nature of the programme and will include a combination of ‘take-home’ assignments, skills-based assessments, practical lab tasks, projects, demonstrations and presentations in addition to conventional examinations.

Delivery

All learners are expected to attend in person in class.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for the Higher Diploma in Science in Data Analytics are:

• A Level 8 primary undergraduate honours degree with a minimum Pass classification from a recognised third level institution in a non-cognate area and ideally be able to demonstrate mathematical problem solving skills as part of previous programme learning. i.e. math's at Leaving Cert level would suffice.
• Or
• A minimum Level 7 Ordinary Bachelor’s degree in a cognate area such as computer science, technology, networking, information systems, engineering, general science, mathematics, statistics, data science.
• Or
• Applicants who do not have a Level 8 qualification and who have at least 3 years’ work experience may also be considered through the college’s normal RPL procedures. Relevant professional experience may be taken into account and individuals will be assessed on a case-by-case basis through DBS RPL procedures.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Learners may also access this course on the basis of recognition of prior learning or by assessment of prior experiential learning/informal learning. For this particular programme applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis based upon their educational record, work experience, their ability to demonstrate technical or mathematical problem solving skills and a capacity to successfully participate in the programme.

Course Content

The Higher Diploma in Science in Data Analytics has the following content:

• Advanced Analytics and Web Application
• Applied Data Analytics
• Big Data Managing and Processing
• Data and Network Mining
• Data Visualisation & Communications
• Databases for Business Applications
• Platforms for Data Analytics
• Programming for Data Analytics
• Project
• Statistics for Data Analytics

Structure

Full-time: 1 year (2 semesters of 12 weeks each)

The Full Time Higher Diploma in Science in Data Analytics will run over one academic year from Monday to Friday. Calendars will be available in due course. Please note day time attendance is required on this programme.

Career Opportunities

As the ICT sector continues to grow so too does the demand for skilled personnel in this area. A target of delivering more than 47,000 graduates with high level ICT skills by 2022 has been set by the Government to meet Irelands need for graduates in computing, electronic and electrical engineering. Technology Skills 2022, Ireland's third ICT Skills Action Plan was launched in February 2020 by Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Heather Humphreys.

Roles types that may be suitable for graduates include:

• Senior Data Analyst
• Data Engineering and Analytics
• Financial Analyst
• Power BI Data Analyst
• Consulting: Date Analyst
• Lead Business Analyst

Eligibility

For information on eligibility and funding eligibility requirements, visit the Springboard+ website.

Application Procedures

The application procedures are in 2 stages. First, DBS will contact you in relation to collecting your academic documents to ensure you meet the minimum entry requirements of the programme you have applied for. Then, closer to course commencement, we will contact you again in relation to information on the uploading of the required documentation in order to ensure you meet the Springboard+ Eligibility Criteria.

Next Steps

Apply online via the Springboard portal.

Awarding Body

Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI)

Duration

1 Academic Year

Study Mode

Full-Time

Award Level

Level 8 NFQ

ECTS Credits

60

10% Contribution (if applicable)

€725

Next Intake

March 2025