Diploma in Applied Software Development

Program Overview

The Diploma in Applied Software Development equips individuals with the skills and knowledge for entry-level software development roles. Through a blended learning approach, students gain a solid foundation in Java programming, software development, and related topics. The program emphasizes practical application, peer learning, and formative feedback, preparing graduates for success in the rapidly evolving IT industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Diploma in Applied Software Development is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required for entry-level positions as software developers. The program is intended to produce graduates with the attributes necessary for success in today's rapidly evolving IT industry. It provides a solid foundation for further education and career advancement.

Objectives:

• To enable graduates to secure entry-level industry positions or advance their careers within the IT field.
• To provide the IT sector with graduates who possess the requisite skills and attributes to contribute positively.
• To offer learners an NFQ level 7 Special Purpose award that sets them on a path for further education in Applied Software Development.
• To lay the groundwork for graduates to pursue further studies at NFQ Level 7 or progress to NFQ Level 8 in Computing or related disciplines.
• To foster personal development through peer learning, mentoring, and formative feedback, empowering graduates to identify their learning needs and pursue continuous professional development.

Outline:

Program Content:

The program focuses on Java Programming, Software Development, and related topics informed by industry consultation and collaboration. It emphasizes practical application through hands-on sessions in labs and workshops.

Structure:

The program is delivered part-time over one academic year, with classes held on weekday evenings and several Saturday classes per term. This flexible schedule allows students to balance their studies with other commitments.

Course Schedule:

• Digital Transversal Skills: Empowers learners with collaborative tools, problem-solving techniques, and ethical considerations in a digital workplace.
• Java Programming – Object Oriented Approach: Spans the entire course of study, providing a foundation in Java programming that underpins learning in other modules.
• Problem Solving and Mathematics for IT: Develops logical and analytical thinking essential for software development, with practical applications complementing other modules.
• Object Oriented Analysis and Design: Equips learners with the theoretical and practical skills to apply a development process to software projects, influencing the approach taken in other modules.
• Web Development: Provides exposure to a major software development domain, enabling learners to apply their knowledge from associated modules while specializing in a specific area.
• Databases: Covers fundamental and advanced data storage techniques, with opportunities for integration across multiple modules.
• Software Development Processes: Builds upon knowledge gained in previous modules, enhancing understanding of practical software development applications.
• Mobile Development: Focuses on mobile software development, allowing learners to leverage their knowledge into a mobile-connected environment and gain insights into multiple domain software development.
• Strategic Business IT: Examines the application of software in a business context, highlighting the impact of software development on business operations and the need for ongoing cross-domain software development.

Assessment:

Learners engage in a variety of formative learning activities to prepare for program assessments. Assessments are completed during taught modules and through end-of-module assessments or examinations. The program employs an authentic assessment approach to provide insights into real-world work tasks, scenarios, and challenges. Opportunities for integrated assessment are maximized to reflect workplace problems and scenarios. Six of the nine modules are assessed 100% by continuous assessments, which combine practical and written components. The remaining three modules (Problem Solving and Mathematics for IT, Databases, and Strategic Business IT) are assessed through a combination of continuous assessment and examinations.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining classroom and laboratory learning with interactive workshops. Industry-relevant challenges are presented to students to provide an authentic learning and assessment experience.

Faculty:

The faculty comprises experienced professionals and academic experts in the field of software development. Their expertise and industry connections ensure that the program content and delivery are aligned with current industry practices.

Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes peer learning, mentoring, and formative feedback to promote personal and professional development. It fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can share knowledge, support each other, and identify their learning needs.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Upon completion of the program, graduates are qualified to pursue entry-level roles as software developers or software engineers. They may also seek employment in related industries or advance their careers within their current organizations.

Opportunities:

The program prepares graduates for a wide range of opportunities in the IT industry, including software development, web development, and mobile development. Graduates may also pursue further education to enhance their skills and qualifications.

Outcomes:

Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional attributes required to succeed in the IT industry. They are highly sought-after by employers due to their ability to contribute to software development projects effectively and efficiently.