Ireland has an international reputation as a centre of excellence in Information Technology. Both multinationals and home-grown talent contribute to making technology one of the fastest growing industries in the country. Intel, HP, IBM, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, Amazon, AirBnB, PayPal, eBay and Twitter are just some of the tech giants established here.

This full-time course is ideal as a stepping stone for those considering further study in computer science and software engineering or those who simply wish to gain the basic skills and knowledge essential for a thriving career in the ever-evolving field of software development.

Computer programming meets game design in this exciting course that offers you a route into one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.

You can tailor the course to suit your programming and your other IT interests, this is an excellent course for beginners who want to move into the digital entertainment industry or develop computer applications.

Location: Athlone

The overall aim of the programme is to provide the learner with the opportunity to enable the learner to design, develop and test software components and systems in a workplace environment, working as a team member under supervision, while contributing to the workflow for the finished product. There are 35 programme modules in this programme. Upon successful completion of a minimum of 8 programme modules the learner may achieve the required 120 credits for a level 5 QQI major award. There are many employment options after this course in the IT industry ranging from working in the area of Web Design creation to programming in the larger IT companies.

This course provides a foundation for learners who wish to gain employment in the field of Computers and Gaming or who wish to continue their studies and progress to Higher Education. The course is supported by F.I.T. (FastTrack to Information Technology), who provide supports such as CV writing and Interview Skills workshops along with mock interviews.

Two years, part time for the full award. Students will obtain a QQI component certificate at the end of the first year.

This Pre Apprenticeship Software Development QQI Level 5 Computer Programming course gives students an excellent grounding in computer programming C++ and Java and Game Design. Students develop practical skills and can progress to our QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Software Development.

The programme will consist of 4 terms. In Terms 2 and 4 learners will go out on work experience one day a week and attend college 4 days. Term 3 consists of a 12 week work placement in a relevant workplace. Learners will participate effectively in work experience, will work independently while under general direction, meet deadlines, observe good timekeeping, presentation, communication, ahderence to health, safety and other relevant regulations. They will demonstrate personal, interpersonal and technological communication skills.

Our objective is to equip graduates with the skills to seek employment in this level of business. We constantly re-assess programme content to keep apace of emerging platforms and industry trends.This programme takes into account the specific requirements of the global software industry and what it expects from graduates. The emphasis on the programme is in supplying students with coding and communication skills to enable them to be productive members of a growing worldwide software technology sector. 

This programme takes into account the specific requirements of the global software industry and what it expects from graduates. The emphasis on the programme is in supplying students with coding and communication skills to enable them to be productive members of a growing worldwide software technology sector. This programme takes into account the specific requirements of the global software industry and what it expects from graduates. 

This course is designed to give the student a firm foundation in the skills required to develop software.

Software development involves writing and testing computer programs to meet a customer’s needs. Students are introduced to the basics of programming using the Java programming language. Once the basic principles of programming are understood, students move on to more advanced concepts using an Object Oriented programming language.

Throughout the course there is a focus on the development of ‘soft skills’ such as problem solving, communications and team working. Students learn how to identify and document customer requirements. Programming is taught in a fun and interactive way.

This course gives students who have already achieved a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Software Development, Computer Systems & Networks or qualifications from an IT related area the opportunity to further enhance their skills. There is a growing need and demand for qualified IT professionals. This course will give you the skills, knowledge and competence required in the software development and design sector.

This full-time advanced course is an ideal choice for students aspiring to thrive in roles in Software Development, Computer Programming or Technical Support. Designed for those who already hold a Level5 qualification in Software Development, Computer Programming or a related field. This course opens pathways to third level Institutes (through the Higher Education Links Scheme). Successful completion may even lead to direct entry into the second year of select degree programs at TUS Athlone (formerly AIT). Throughout the programme, students will acquire cutting-edge skills in Mobile Technology, Object-Oriented Programming and Web Development.

This Level 5 Certificate in Software Development and Data Analytics gives students an excellent grounding in computer programming and software architecture. Students develop practical skills and can progress to our QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Software Development. This course provides a thorough introduction to coding, hardware and networking concepts so students can appreciate what data analytics involves.

The Certificate in Software Development and Data Analytics course also enables students to apply through the CAO directly to third level. This course has a high success rate in terms of students securing places in TU Dublin, NCI, Maynooth University, UCD and IADT.

This comprehensive course offers a guided pathway for aspiring developers to enhance their expertise.

Master In-Demand Skills: In today’s technology-driven world, software development skills are in high demand across industries. This course enables you to learn the fundamental principles of developing, software architecture, software design, and more.

You’ll gain proficiency in popular programming languages such as Node JS, empowering you to create robust, scalable, and efficient software solutions. Additionally, this course covers the entire game development lifecycle, from conceptualization and storyboarding to level design, character creation, and gameplay mechanics. You’ll learn programming skills for Unreal Engine, gaining proficiency in game development frameworks and tools.

This course aims to provide students with the skills and training to enable them to pursue a career in the computer industry and in particular, in the areas of Computer Programming (Learning to Code) and Software Development with particular emphasis on ‘Cloud’ Computing. Information Technology is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Irish Economy, with particular growth in the field of computer-based services and Software Development. Successful students will be awarded a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Software Development. All students complete a two week work experience placement as part of their studies on this course.

A minimum of 8 modules must be completed for certification made up of mandatory and electives, see opposite list. Choice of modules is decided by CCFE and subject to annual staffing/college resources.

Software Development with Cyber Security is designed to produce graduates with an in-depth knowledge of the essential aspects of Software Development and the skills associated with Cyber Security. You will learn how to design and develop secure software applications and systems, utilizing various programming languages, security frameworks, and data analytics tools.

The course will equip you with practical skills needed to create, deploy, and maintain secure software applications. You will learn about software design, enterprise coding, database and data analytics, and cross-platform production, ensuring you have a comprehensive skill set for the industry.

Are you interested in Digital skills and Computer Coding? Do you enjoy STEAM subjects? Do you want to pursue a career in science, computing or engineering? Are you aiming to gain Higher Education qualifications and be equipped with the skills for future industries? If so, this course offers you a stepping stone to begin your career journey.

Learners will develop critical thinking and analysis skills in project based learning, with practical skills workshops enabling research and development, problem solving, and collaborative teamwork to enhance the skills needed to support, develop and maintain IT infrastructure.

Our course in Software Development with Games Programming is designed to produce graduates with an in-depth knowledge of the essential aspects of Software Development and  the skills associated with Games Programming. You will learn how to design and develop games for platforms like mobiles, consoles, PCs, and online, using a variety of programming languages and game engines.