Higher Diploma Languages and Global Software Business

Program Overview

This Higher Diploma program combines language proficiency with ICT and business knowledge to prepare graduates for careers in the multilingual global software and technology industry. It offers modules in localization, translation, IT fundamentals, sales, and support, along with industry-mentored projects and career coaching to enhance employability in roles such as technology sales, localization, and customer support.

Program Outline

Higher Diploma in Languages and Global Software Business (HCI Pillar 1) - UCC

Degree Overview:

This Higher Diploma program (QQI/NFQ Level 8) is designed for graduates with a degree or fluency in a language who are interested in advancing their careers in multilingual global software and technology companies. The program aims to strengthen existing language skills and develop competencies in ICT, software sales, technical support, localization, and translation. It also focuses on intercultural communication skills essential for the global workplace.

Objectives:

The program aims to enable graduates to:

• Develop skills and demonstrate knowledge of digital business and software sales.
• Develop skills and demonstrate a working knowledge of localization and translation processes.
• Develop skills and demonstrate knowledge of technology and software support.
• Develop the skills to negotiate a global workplace where intercultural competencies are required.
• Develop and apply problem-solving skills to real-world problems through student work supported by both industry and UCC staff.

Outline:

The program is delivered in an online learning format and includes modules covering essential industry areas such as the fundamentals of IT and software, supporting technology users, and project experience with industry.

Modules:

• LL5007 Localisation Essentials: This module explores the key concepts, strategies, and challenges in the localization industry, including cultural and technical implications.
It introduces the use of CAT (Computer Aided Translation) Tools.
• LL5008 Localisation Project: This module provides hands-on experience with tools and technologies used in industry to manage, complete, and deliver translation and localization projects.
Students work through the stages of a localization project lifecycle, taking on different stakeholder roles.
• LL6014 Translation and Professional Skills: This module focuses on developing and maintaining translation and communication skills necessary for translators, researchers, and professional linguists.
It covers keeping language skills up-to-date, technical presentation skills, and relevant research resources.
• LL5005 Negotiating Knowledges in Networked Societies: This module provides students with the tools to understand and navigate intercultural communication in various texts and contexts.
It explores concepts like intercultural communication, migration, mobility, plurilingualism, and technology, demonstrating how Humanities approaches can inform a global business environment.
• IS5004 IT Solution Selling and Digital Business: This module examines the role of the salesperson in identifying customer needs and solving problems in the modern digital business environment.
It introduces practical tools and frameworks for go-to-market strategies and entrepreneurial activity.
• IS5005 Enterprise Sales Solutions for Global Business: This module explores how sales management practices are enabled and augmented by technology.
It examines processes like customer identification and engagement, account planning, sales and marketing analysis, and sales strategies for building sales capabilities in the digital world.
• IS5001 IT and Software Fundamentals: This module examines how information systems are used in organizations to solve problems and achieve business objectives.
It discusses strategies and processes for managing and resolving customer issues.
• IS5003 Applied Industry Project (Summer months): This module is a group-based, industry-mentored project where students apply data, analysis, and process development to real-world problems.
It fosters project solving, project management, and client interaction skills.

Timetable:

The program is delivered through live online classes and recorded lectures uploaded to Canvas (UCC's Learning Management System). The timetable is divided into two semesters:

Semester 1:

• LL5007 Localisation Essentials: Monday 5-7pm; Online
• LL5014 Translation and Professional Skills: Wednesday 3-4pm; Online
• IS5001 IT and Software Fundamentals: Thursdays 3-5pm; Online
• IS5004 Digital Business for the Global Enterprise: Monday 3-4pm; Tuesday 4-5pm; Online

Semester 2:

• LL5005 Negotiating Knowledges in Networked Societies: Friday 2-4pm; Online classes recorded and uploaded
• LL5008 Localisation Project: Wednesday 5-7pm; Online
• IS5002 Supporting Technology Users: Tuesday 6-7pm (pre-recorded) and a live lecture Thursday 6-7pm

Teaching:

The program is delivered through live online classes and recorded lectures. The program also includes online sessions to help students connect with each other and their lecturers, reinforce module content, build transferable skills, and interact with industry leaders and experts.

Careers:

The program addresses the need for language skills in the ICT sector, as highlighted by employer reports and Global Ireland: Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025. Graduates can expect to find their acquired ICT and language skills in demand across roles such as:

• Technology and Software Sales, Account Management, and Sales Engineering
• Technology and Software Localisation and Translation
The program includes career coaching and job readiness workshops to help students formulate individual career action plans, understand their strengths and skills, and develop a career management strategy. Students also have the opportunity to meet employers at UCC organized recruitment fairs, jobs roadshows, and other events.

Other:

The program includes a practice of the Wordfast Studio suite of translation tools, courtesy of the Wordfast Academic Program.