Course Summary
The Higher Diploma in Science in Artificial Intelligence Applications is a postgraduate course which aims to provide an opportunity for learners with a related degree outside the computing arena as well as those currently involved within the IT sphere to refocus and reskill for careers that require AI knowledge and skills.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Learners submitting an application to the proposed programme should provide supporting documentation for application consideration, in line with any one of the below Access arrangements or minimum entry requirements:
Evidence of ability in the application of mathematical concepts such as statistics, algebra, or spreadsheet analysis and formulas, database knowledge, for example, to a level 8 standard is required to evidence the numerate, technical and analytical ability required to ensure capacity for the extent of mathematical and technical content on the programme. This pre-requisite knowledge, skill and competence can be evidenced through a level 8 degree, or through a combination of qualifications with experience. Specifically:
a. Applicants will ideally possess a minimum of an honours degree in ICT, or a cognate discipline. For the purpose of the application process, cognate disciplines deemed to satisfy the requirement for numerate, technical and analytical content include those in the areas of:
• Mathematics
• Life sciences
• Engineering
• Technology
• Information science
• Economics
• Architecture
• Accounting
Applicants with non-cognate degrees will also be considered but must be able to demonstrate mathematical, technical and analytical ability up to a level 8 standard through qualifications or appropriate experiential learning.
or
b. Applications on the basis of experiential learning or informal / non-formal learning must evidence an applicant’s potential to succeed through demonstration of ability to pursue the programme at the applicable NFQ level and benefit from the programme of study in question. Specifically, RPL applications must evidence numerate, technical and analytical ability to a level 8 standard. In addition to numerate, technical and analytical capacity, all applicants will need to evidence learning to a level 8 standard including the ability to produce written summaries, discussions and projects on academic and applied matters.
RPL portfolio evidence may be provided through:
• Prior study and qualifications, including CPD, short courses and professional awards as well as NFQ awards
• Work experience and achievements
• Other experiential learning obtained through volunteering or non-employment experience
• Successful completion of an entry assessment set by the College
• A combination of the above
This programme is designed for graduates of level 8 degrees of a more numerate, technical and analytical nature or those individuals who can evidence equivalent through professional experience and/or educational qualifications. This programme is not suitable for individuals with only basic numeracy and or computer literacy.
To fully engage in this programme applicants will be required to have access to the internet, a laptop or desktop PC with webcam, microphone and speakers or headset.
This is the minimum specification for laptop:
• Windows 10/11 OS with a basic RAM Memory of 16GB DDR4 RAM, processor Intel i5/i7(9th Gen and above or equivalent),
• Dedicated graphics card
• SSD / HDD : 500GB
• M1/M2 Mac Not Suitable for AI or Data Analytics Courses
While there is no compulsory access interview some applicants may be required to attend an interview. CCT reserves the right to request an applicant to attend a semi-structured interview in order to more fully establish the applicant’s suitability for the programme, their motivation and potential to succeed.
There is no specified minimum experiential requirement for standard applicants. RPL applications are considered on a case-by-case basis under the CCT RPL policy.
Applicants whose first language is not English, must present English Language proficiency level evidence. English language competency required for entry must be equal to or greater than B2+ in the CERFL. English language credentials endorsed by other systems (viz. IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge etc.) will be assessed to ensure they meet this minimum standard.
All applications for admission onto this programme should include:
• Updated CV
• ID Verification (passport picture page copy)
• Attested original copies of degree qualification parchment
• Attested original copies of final degree transcript of results
• RPEL documentation as required by CCT
• Evidence of English Language proficiency scores if the applicant’s first language is not English (IELTS, TOEFL etc.)
Application Details
Application for the HCI funded course should be made via the Springboard+ Courses website.
Application for the full-time (day) course should be made by emailing [email protected]
Next Intake Due to Commence (full-time) February 2025
Fees
Application for the HCI funded course should be made via the Springboard+ Courses website.
Application for the full-time (day) course should be made by emailing [email protected]
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
Duration
Provisional Schedule for Full-time (day) Course
3 days per week (contact hours delivered between 9am and 5.30pm)
Provisional Schedule for HCI Funded Course
2 evenings per week 5.45-9.45pm plus 3-4 Saturday classes per term (Blended Learning)