Software Development
Course Description
The software technology industry is one of the fastest growing industries. Many of the world’s leading software companies, including Microsoft, Google, Facebook and IBM have a significant presence in Ireland.
This course has a strong practical flavour, and as a student you will gain a range of hands-on skills in Java programming, Android App development and software testing. The skills learned are easily transferable to other areas within the IT sector. It also facilitates progression to higher education and training along with multiple job opportunities.
The software technology sector is Ireland’s fastest growing sector. Almost all of the world’s leading software companies, including IBM, Oracle, Microsoft, Google, and Facebook, have a significant presence here. In this course, students will study a mix of software architecture, math and computer programming to learn how to design, develop and trouble shoot software from business applications to mobile apps.
QQI Level 5
Software Development
5M0529
One year full time
Candidates seeking entry to this programme should ideally have a minimum of a pass in Mathematics at Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate and display an active interest in information and communications technology. Some experience with computer programming or coding would be advantageous. All prospective candidates will be interviewed individually and places will be awarded on merit.
The emphasis of this course is on the application of programming techniques as they apply to applications, IT systems, Internet web sites and mobile apps. Components may include the following:
- Software Architecture
5N2772
The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to understand the software development life cycle for a range of projects and introduce industry‐standard tools and techniques for implementing appropriate software solutions. - Fundamentals of Object Oriented Programming
5N0541
The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to construct computer programs using industry standard object oriented concepts. - Programming and Design Principles
5N2927
The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence needed to design, write and test structured computer programs using modularisation techniques appropriate to the programming language(s) used. - Communications
5N0690
This subject aims to strengthen the oral and written communication and presentation skills needed in the workplace. - Web Authoring
5N1910
The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to effectively use Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) standards and editors in the construction, testing and maintenance of webpages and sites. - Mobile Technologies
5N0580
The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to configure, utilise and maintain mainstream mobile technologies and associated devices. - Maths for Information Technology
5N18396
The purpose of this award is to certify relevant knowledge, skill and competence to apply a broad range of mathematical skills and tools to a wide variety of contexts especially in software development and/or working with computer systems and networks. - Work Experience
5N1356
All students are expected to participate in mandatory work placement in a relevant industrial or commercial environment. Note: It is the student's responsibility to secure a suitable 2 week block work placement position.
There are a number of possible job opportunities for students with a solid programming background. The key areas of employment include:
- Junior Programmer
- Software Developer
- Web Site Design/Maintenance
- Mobile App Developer
- IT Support
390 CAO points can be earned by students on successful completion of this course.
For full details on progression opportunities see these links:
Cork Colleges Progression Scheme
QQI Requirements
Formal links exist for the following courses:
- MTU: Computer Systems (CR116)
- MTU: Software Development (CR106)
- MTU: IT Management (CR310)
- MTU: Web Development (CR312)
- MTU: Software Development (CR106)
Other courses which past students have progressed to:
- UCC: BSc (Hons) Degree Computer Science (CK401)
- UCC: BSc (Hons) Degree Business Information Systems (CK203)
TESTIMONIALS
Holman Sulumba
Information Technology Support Technician at PFH Technology Group
"I returned to fulltime education right after I came out of the direct provision system.
I applied for a Software Development course in CSN college of Further Education. It was a challenging step to make as I was out of education for four years. My topmost aim was to get a certificate at the end of the year and I’ve found that CSN is a great environment to study.
The tutor system is effective and all tutors are all experts in their fields as they aimed at making each student pass their exams which means they have passion for their subjects that is infectious. With the experience I gained and a whole host of reasons I was able to secure a job as an IT support engineer. If you are looking to have a great one year, learn about Software Development from outstanding teachers, and make a lot of friends in the process, please the consider CSN college of further education."
Éanna Lenihan
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Cian
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David MacSweeney
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Rajmeet Singh
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"Very enjoyable course. Provides a great starting point for software development and gives you a great advantage if you progress your studies. Would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in the I.T. sector."
Alan Smith – Software Development, CIT
“Software Development in CSN is a great course that taught me a lot about computer programming and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. It was the perfect stepping stone into my degree course in UCC and it gave me a good head start on my first year modules.”
Stephen Lydon – Computer Science, UCC
"Software Development acts as a great stepping stone if you are eager to work with computers. It gives a general feel of the IT industry so you can choose if it is something for you or not. The programming experience I acquired has helped me a lot more than I thought it would and I have settled into my gaming course quicker due to that"
Meshal Marakkar – Computer Games Technology, University of the West of Scotland
I.T. Lab
Coding
Teamwork