Computing for Leaving Certificate Computer Science

Program Overview

---

Computing for Leaving Certificate Computer Science

Overview

The Higher Diploma in Computing in Computer Science is a graduate conversion programme designed for those interested in changing careers to teach computing in schools or move into a new career in the ICT industry.

Programme Details

TU Code

TU067

NFQ Level

Level 8

Award Type

Major

Award

Higher Diploma in Science

Duration

2 Years

Course Type

Undergraduate

Mode of Study

Part Time

Method of Delivery

Blended

Commencement Date

September 2025

Location

Tallaght

Fees

Qualifying teachers are fully funded by Department of Education

Programme Description

The programme has a strong record of success, taking those interested in changing career to either teach computing in schools or move into a new career in the ICT industry. With the rapid adoption of Computer Science as a module in the Leaving Certificate as well as the development of new Computing and Digital curricula across secondary and primary level schools there is a strong demand for qualified teachers with computing skills.

For 2025, this programme has been selected by the Department of Education to provide a recognised route into teaching Computer Science to Leaving Certificate Level. Thus, those who are teaching or would like to teach Leaving Certificate Computer Science (LCCS) subject can use this programme to obtain Teacher’s council recognition for Computer Science at second level.

Importantly, this programme is fully funded for second-level teachers by the Department of Education, ensuring that educators can upskill at no personal cost. This investment in teacher development reflects a commitment to expanding computer science education nationwide, providing teachers with the support and resources they need to confidently bring LCCS to their classrooms.

This Higher Diploma programme empowers teachers with the confidence and expertise to deliver the curriculum. The programme is designed to develop programming skills, particularly in Python, enabling teachers to cultivate computational thinking and problem-solving abilities in their students. Through hands-on learning, participants develop proficiency in programming, software development, and debugging techniques, ensuring they can guide students with clarity and confidence.

In addition to programming, the course enhances skills in web development and user interface design, equipping them to create engaging and interactive learning experiences. A solid foundation in information systems, data management, and data analytics ensures that teachers feel well-prepared to support students in understanding how data is stored, processed, and visualised.

Teachers also gain a deeper understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and networking, boosting their ability to explain how computers function. Programming embedded systems introduces them to coding for hardware devices, reinforcing computational concepts through practical, hands-on applications that build their confidence in applying technology in the classroom.

The programme further strengthens teachers’ abilities in systems analysis, testing methodologies, and best practices for evaluating software functionality. A final project allows them to apply their learning in a real-world educational setting, whether by developing software, implementing pedagogical strategies, or exploring innovative teaching methodologies aligned with the LCCS specification. This ensures that teachers graduate with the skills and confidence to inspire the next generation of computer science students.

Minimum Entry Requirements

• Honours bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8) or equivalent.
• Typically, candidates have graduated in a non-Computing discipline.
• (Honours degree in Computing candidates may be considered where their date of award exceeds 5 years previous from the date of application or where their modules do not match to requirements for registration in Computer Science.)
• Non-standard applicants are considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Candidates wishing to avail of Department of Education support for fees need to be a qualified, registered second level teacher.

Career Opportunities

On successful completion of this course, graduates will be able to register with the teaching council for the Leaving Certificate Computer Science subject.

In addition, teachers can also pursue a postgraduate course, either a MSc by research or PhD by research (depend on teacher qualifications).

Course Content

Year 1

Semester 1

• Software Development 1 (Python)
• Web and UI Design (HTML, CSS)
• Information Systems

Semester 2

• Architecture, Operating Systems and Networks
• Systems Analysis and Testing
• Data Analysis and Visualisation

Year 2

Semester 1

• Software Development 2 (Python)
• Information Management

Semester 2

• Programming Embedded Systems (Micro:bit)
• Project

Schedule

Year 1

• One evening per week (Online 5:00pm-9:00pm)
• Two 3-day blocks (Hybrid - outside of teaching term)
• Four Saturdays in Semester 1 and 2 Saturdays in Semester 2 (Hybrid)

Year 2

• One evening per week (Online 5:00-9:00pm)
• One 1-day block (Hybrid - outside of teaching term)
• Four Saturdays in Semester 1 and 2 Saturdays in Semester 2 (Hybrid)

Progression

Graduates from the course will be eligible for progression to an MSc programmes in Computing in TU Dublin. Previous graduates have also continued to Masters and PhD research programmes.