International Diploma in Computer Studies (IDCS)
Equivalent to year 1 of a 3 year UK honours degree / HE Level C (Certificate) or National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level: 4
Aimed at students seeking undergraduate entry onto an Information Technology Degree Pathway, the diploma blends the best in computing, communication and business skills to create well rounded IT professionals.
Entry Requirements
On entry a student must have at least one of the following:
- NCC Education International Foundation Year (IFY) qualification.
- An international qualification which is deemed to be of a similar level to the IFY programme.
- At least one 'A' Level pass or an appropriate School Leaver's Certificate.
- Vocational experience which is deemed suitable by NCC Education.
- Completed a FETAC Level 5 Certificate in a similar area.
Applicants whose first language is not English will need:
- The required minimum result in the NCC Education Higher English Placement Test (HEPT) or
- IELTS 5.5 or equivalent
Objectives
- Knowledge and understanding of the established principles of computer systems and of the way in which these principles have developed
- Knowledge and understanding of the use of computer systems to solve business and organisational problems
- The ability to contribute to the implementation of such systems
- The ability to operate such systems and consider the needs of the users
- Awareness and understanding of the wider issues concerning the use of computer systems in society at large
- Knowledge and understanding of a well-developed set of problem-solving and analytical skills which can be applied to the development of computing solutions
- The ability to effectively communicate and present ideas and describe systems in both written and oral forms
- A sense of responsibility to users and fellow practitioners in computing
Structure
A total of eight modules (six core and two elective).
Content
Core Modules:
- Computer Technology
- Systems Development
- Programming Methods
- Fundamentals of Hardware & Operating Systems
- Business Communication
- Networking
Elective Modules
- Java
- Visual Basic
- Web Design
- eBusiness
- Organisational and Business Structures
Assessment
Assessed through assignments and terminal examinations.
Academic Progression
Successful graduates of the International Diploma in Computer Studies are eligible to apply for entry onto the International Advanced Diploma in Computer Studies (IADCS).
Alternatively students are eligible to apply to enrol at one of the many universities who have granted articulation onto their degree programmes.
Career Progression
Students can enter the job market with enhanced skills and greater employability in roles such as IT Network Support engineers, Trainee Programmers and Website Developers.
Duration
One year full-time
Delivery Method
Classroom Based
- Keira Hayes is an Academic Coordinator at Eden College, with responsibility for overseeing both the ACCA and City & Guilds Programmes. She is an experienced lecturer, delivering modules to Master’s level. She has a BA in Finance and an MA in Economics from the National University of Ireland. Keira enjoys globe-trotting and has travelled extensively in Asia and Australia.
- Keira Hayes
Academic Coordinator
