Work+

Description

The Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing, Analytics and Security for Industry forms the core of our Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme, which provides a clear and achievable progression route enabling you to train to a high level whilst gaining a professional qualification.

Upon successful interview, you will be placed with a company for four days a week while attending the College one day a week.

Over a period of three years, you will work towards the achievement of a Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing, Analytics and Security for Industry. The HLA will also provide the opportunity to work on live projects within an IT company and hence gain work-based learning experience while developing the transferable skills essential to succeed in the industry.

This programme will meet your requirements for personal and intellectual development and will open up new career avenues within the IT sector or provide you with a pathway to continue your studies at university.

There are approximately 360 hours per year student contact time, including blended delivery, over a three year period. Students are required to attend the Southern Regional College Portadown Campus during term-time, one full day per week. The remaining 4 days will be based with an employer. There is an expectation of independent study.

All staff delivering on this programme are highly experienced with an extensive skillset across all computing disciplines.

Modules

• Object-Oriented Programming Fundamentals.

• Introduction to Networking.

• Database Design and Development for Cloud.

• IoT Development.

• Introduction to Virtualisation Technologies.

• Mobile Development.

• Cloud Computing.

• Cyber Security.

• Data Analytics.

• AI Fundamentals.

• Work Based Learning.

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Open University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

• Applicants should have obtained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A-Levels, National Awards, Access or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.

• Applicants should have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. This must include GCSE English Language Grade C or Essential Skills Communication Level 2 and GCSE Mathematics Grade C or approved equivalent. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language.

• Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Policy at https://www.src.ac.uk/about-us...

• For entry to Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLA), employers may further enhance the entry criteria at their discretion. All applicants for HLAs will be interviewed by prospective employers to decide their suitability prior to being employed by a company. Each applicant must secure employment with a Northern Ireland based company with a minimum contract of 21 hours. Entrance to HLAs is subject to meeting DfE Operational requirements.

The College’s Admissions policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code Admissions, Recruitment and Widening Access (Nov 2018).

Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply....

It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

Duration

3

Start Date

Tuesday 12 September 2023

End Date

Saturday 27 June 2026

Progression Pathway

On successful completion of this course you may progress to the part-time Level 6 BSc (Hons) Degree in Computing for Industry offered by SRC (in collaboration with Open University.)

Students may also progress to other degree programmes but it is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s admission and progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

Description

Design your own degree pathway and progress part-time at a pace that best suits you, completing in 3, 4, 5 or 6 years.

Computing Systems develops skills in subjects that include programming, databases, networking, web development, human computer interaction, artificial intelligence and systems security alongside subjects that develop your software engineering skillset. When you finish, you will be ready for a professional career in computing, equipped with the technical and personal skills sought by industry, able to apply best practice in software engineering to develop wide ranging systems for any organisation.

Uniquely, BSc Computing Systems is designed using the Variable Rate Progression (VRP) model. VRP empowers you to design your own personal pathway through the modules of the course, something that is not possible in traditional courses. The precise pathway, its duration and specific modules, are determined by you. Many potential pathways exist. A pathway 'Simulator' for experimenting and planning your route through the course is available on our VRP website at: http://www.vrpassistant.com.

Using VRP, the programme may be completed part-time in 3, 4, 5 or 6 years, dependent upon the precise pathway you derive over the course of your studies. Note that should you choose to enter the course in February, rather than September, the minimum duration of the course will be four years.

Ulster University is a recognised Training Provider for the DfE Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) scheme. BSc (Hons) Computing Systems operates a successful HLA programme, working with participating companies that include Kainos, AllState, Deloitte, LibertyIT, Neueda, Etain and GCD Technologies. Applicants interested in HLA opportunities in the subject of Computing, should contact participating companies directly. Companies interested in offering computing related HLA opportunities should contact the Computing Systems Course Director for further information.

Attendance

Computing Systems is usually delivered on a Monday afternoon and evening during Semesters 1 and 2 (September-May). There are also 6 days of block training per selected module during Semester 3 (schedule for the end of June and beginning of August). Typical weekly timetabled hours involve 3.5 hours per selected module, scheduled for delivery between 1.15PM and 9.15PM. This contact time accounts for around 1/4 of the expected self-directed study time for each module.

The duration of the degree is dependent on the number of modules you study and successfully completed each year. There are six modules at each of three levels in the course. Each year, you can choose undertake a minimum of three modules and a maximum of six modules. This choice aim to enhance flexibility and empowers you to complete the course in as little as three years or to choose a slower track lasting four, five or even six years. You will have an annual opportunity to review and adjust your rate of progress.

Modules

Year one

Mathematics for Computer Scientists

Year: 1

This module provides an introduction to core areas of mathematics that are commonly used by computer scientists. The relationship between set theory and propositional logic is explained, with applications to digital circuits. Mathematics for decision making is introduced, including their practical application. Probability, descriptive statistics and matrices are introduced, and their application to simple linear regression is used to motivate their use within data science.

Database Systems

Year: 1

This module introduces the database technologies that support the storage, update and retrieval of large quantities on information in computer systems. We examine the need for structured storage and discuss modelling, representation and retrieval techniques to avoid data redundancy while ensuring consistency and integrity. In this module students will study the design, construction and use of such databases, as well as the understanding of need for other types of the databases and their roles in supporting big data platform.

Introduction to Human Computer Interaction

Year: 1

This module is designed to provide students with the core knowledge, understanding and practical skills to solve design problems and develop an effective user experience.

Problem Solving for Computing

Year: 1

Computer programming is a fundamental skill expected of computing graduates. This module will introduce students to the foundational concepts of programming via Python that will be used as building blocks in future modules. Students will also develop and enhance their problem solving skills as an integral part of the module.

Systems Architecture

Year: 1

Differences in the internal structure and organisation of a computer lead to significant differences in performance and functionality, giving rise to an extraordinary range of computing devices, from hand-held computers to large-scale, high-performance machines. This module addresses the various options involved in designing a computer system, the range of design considerations, and the trade-offs involved in the design process.

Innovation and Society

Year: 1

This module is designed to make future computing professionals have the practical skills to cocreate innovative technological solutions to a problem using design thinking tools and processes and be aware of and take into consideration the nature of the legal, ethical, social and professional issues raised during any technological innovation.

Year two

Application Development for IS

Year: 2

In the context of Business Information Systems, this module will focus on the application development skills for building process and data driven apps to meet basic business process automation requirements, with a focus on work flow management, routine task automation, app integration and data file manipulation. It will enable students to appreciate the capability of modern frameworks for business system support.

Networks and Security

Year: 2

The principal aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the underlying systems which support networks. The theoretical concepts covered are illustrated by considering their practical applications in modern real-world solutions. The module also addresses such systems security concerns so that security considerations are embedded in organisations and IT projects planning and management.

Programming in Practice

Year: 2

The module builds upon the expertise acquired in Level 4 programming modules by expanding upon the students' understanding of data types and algorithms within the scope of object-oriented programming. The module focuses on providing students with practical skills for industry-focused software development.

Networks and Communications

Year: 2

An expositional module on the topics of Networks and Communications to educate Computing students on the fundamental principles, latest trends, and commercial needs in the sector. This module is essential to understand the current industrial needs and to hone the central insight required of graduates.

Dynamic Web Authoring

Year: 2

Computer programming is a fundamental skill expected of computing graduates. This module will introduce students to the foundational concepts of programming relating to web authoring that will be used as building blocks in future modules. Students will also develop and enhance their problem solving skills and data analytics skills as an integral part of the module.

Artificial Intelligence

Year: 2

This module introduces students to key areas of AI including searching, knowledge and reasoning, uncertainty and decision making. It equips students with understanding of the mathematical foundations of these topics and the practical skills needed to apply them.

Year three

Web Applications Development

Year: 3

This module provides the opportunity for students to work in industry as a full stack developer through the addition of server side programming. The module puts into practice the client-server model to facilitate the design and development of a web based solution to meet a problem based scenario.

Computing Systems Project

Year: 3

Students are required to undertake a major project during the final year of the course. The project module allows a selected topic area to be investigated in depth and for a solution to be developed in response. Within the project, the student is expected to integrate and apply material from other modules in the course.

Project and Process Management

Year: 3

This module presents modern process and project management (that is the application of
knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to project activities to meet process and project
requirements) principles and techniques as a means to help deliver successful software
development projects and process improvement.

Visual Analytics

Year: 3

This module provides students with the theory and the experience of designing affective data visualisations. These skills are important in many industries that relay on data driven decision making and data analysis.

Cloud Native Development

Year: 3

This module aims to explore a range of modern development and deployment concepts in the context of scalable and high performance computing services.

Within this module concepts such as cloud architectures, hosted technologies, scalable solutions and infrastructure will be explored. Additionally, advanced programming/development concepts facilitating high performance solution development will be examined.

Award

BSc (Hons)

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

A level

CCC.

Applied General Qualifications

QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2012 Suite)

award profile DMM.

RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2019 Suite)

award profile DMM.

RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2016 Suite)

MMM overall award grades.

A Levels with:
BTEC Level 3 QCF Subsidiary Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Extended Certificate;
BTEC Level 3 QCF 90-credit Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Foundation Diploma;
BTEC Level 3 QCF Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Diploma.

OCR/Cambridge Technical Combinations
A levels with OCR Nationals and OCR Cambridge Technicals.

Irish Leaving Certificate

96 UCAS Tariff Points to include a minimum of 4 subjects at Higher Level and 1 subject at Ordinary Level. The overall profile must also include English and Maths at Grade H6 or above (HL) or Grade O4 or above (OL).

Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency

• View tariff point chart

Scottish Highers

Grades CCCCC. All subject areas considered.

Scottish Advanced Highers

Grades DDD. All subject areas considered.

International Baccalaureate

Overall profile of 24 points to include 12 at Higher Level to inlcude grade 4 in Mathematics and Grade 4 in English Language.

Access to Higher Education (HE)

Overall profile of 55% (120 credit Access) (NI Access Course) to include a pass in NICATS Maths (level 2) or GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4.

Overall profile of 45 Merits (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course) to include GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4.

GCSE

GCSE (or equivalent) profile to include minimum of Grade C or 4 or above in Mathematics and Grade C or 4 in English Language.

Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

• English language requirements

• Your country

Additional Entry Requirements

HNC
Pass HNC with overall Merit in a relevant subject area for year 1 entry only to include distinctions in 45 Level 4 credits to include GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4.

HND Year 1
Pass HND in any subject area. GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or an alternative Mathematics qualification acceptable to the University is also required.

HND Year 2
Pass HND rwith overall Merit in a relevant subject area. To include GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4. HND applications may be considered for year 2 entry where the curriculum sufficiently matches that of Ulster University full time year 1 course.

Ulster Foundation Degree
Pass in Foundation Degree with an overall mark of 40% and minimum 40% in all taught level 5 modules. To inlcude GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4. Applicants will normally be considered for entry to an associated Honours degree (normally Year 2 entry if FD in a relevant subject area).

Exemptions and transferability

Transfers are processed in accordance with the Faculty Admissions Policy for dealing with transfer requests from existing students.

Duration

3

Start Date

Tuesday 12 September 2023

End Date

Saturday 27 June 2026

Progression Pathway

Description

You will complete a Foundation Degree in Computing along with work related qualifications over a three-year period.  The Foundation Degree in Computing aims to develop industry current skills to ensure that the future needs of the IT sector are fully met.  

Modules

MANDATORY MODULES

Year 1:

• Introduction to Programming

• Computer Systems

• Personal Qualities in the IT Industry

• Introduction to Databases with SQL

Year 2:

• Computational Mathematics

• Network Technology

• Object-oriented Programming

• Mobile Application Development

Year 3:

• User Centered Design

• Web Technologies

• Work-based learning (40 credits)

This course may grant you privileges as an Associate student of Ulster University and you may have access to a number of University services and facilities, including membership to the Ulster University sports centre and access to physical and online library materials.  To find out more visit UU Associate Student

Assessment:

• Students are assessed using a range of different methods.  These include examinations, coursework, project based learning, presentations, practical assessments and class tests. This is dependent on the requirements of each module of study.  Both oral and written feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

GCSE 

• GCSE English GCSE English Language Grade C or above

• GCSE Maths GCSE Mathematics Grade C (or University-approved equivalent)

• 2 Additional GCSEs In addition to Maths and English, two additional GCSEs at Grade C or above are required

UCAS

A minimum of 64 UCAS points:

• A Levels OR

• Level 3 Diploma

Access Diploma

• Access Diploma Access to Higher Education Diploma with an overall average of 45+% International requirements

Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)

• Level B2 IELTS 6.0 or equivalent, with no band score under 5.5

• Trinity ISE: Pass at Level III or other University-approved equivalent qualifications

Admissions

Successful completion of the admissions process

APEL

• Provide evidence of ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the accreditation of prior experiential learning. Further details on APEL can be found in the admissions section

Duration

3

Start Date

Monday 11 September 2023

End Date

Saturday 27 June 2026

Progression Pathway

This course is designed to prepare students for a career in the ICT industry or progression to related degree programmes. On successful completion of this course you may progress to the BSc (Hons) Computer Science at Ulster University.  Alternatively, you can apply to other Colleges/Universities to complete your undergraduate degree or apply to go straight into employment. 

Description

This course is designed around the computing requirements of local industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, understanding and design skills to formulate solutions to computing problems and the practical skills to implement those solutions. Additionally, 'soft' skills will be developed in teamwork, communications, professional practice and time management.

Modules

• Computer Technologies;

• Computing Mathematics;

• Programming in Python and Java;

• Programming Mobile Applications for Android;

• Database Systems Design and Application;

• Software Systems;

• Interactive Web Authoring;

• Computer Networks and Work-based Learning.

The Work-based learning requires learners to complete an industrial placement of 400 hours.

Dungannon (Options Available)

• Year 2 Semester 1 Network Database Management Systems or Software Testing and Administration

• Year 2 Semester 2 Programming Mobile Devices or Emerging Technologies

Omagh (Compulsory Modules May Change Each Year)

• Year 2 Semester 1 Software Testing and Administration

• Year 2 Semester 2 Emerging Technologies

Enniskillen (Compulsory Modules May Change Each Year)

• Year 2 Semester 1 Network Database Management Systems and

• Year 2 Semester 2 Programming Mobile Applications 

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

A minimum of 64 (CC) UCAS tariff points for Full-time, 56 (CD) UCAS tariff points with grade C or above for GCSE English and Maths.   Entry is also subject to successful interview.

Applicants who do not meet the formal entry requirements may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APEL). 

In the event of over-subscription entry criteria may be enhanced. Refer to general entry requirements.

Duration

3

Start Date

Thursday 21 September 2023

End Date

Saturday 27 June 2026

Progression Pathway

The articulation route for successful graduates from the South West College Foundation Degree in Science in Computing is as follows and depends on the overall grade achieved:

• Ulster University BSc Hons Computing Systems (HLA)

• BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top Up) (Validated by The Open University) (Full Time / SWC Dungannon/Enniskillen/Omagh Campuses)

• BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top Up) (Validated by The Open University) (Part-Time / SWC Dungannon/Enniskillen Campuses)

• Ulster University BSc Hons Computing Science

• You may also progress to other universities to complete your degree.

Description

***This course is not being delivered in 2023 as it has been replaced by the Software and Cloud with Data Analysis L5 course.

Higher Level Apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain quality training and a recognised higher qualification while in paid employment. Higher Level Apprenticeships allow employers to train staff to the level needed so they have strong technical and good employability skills. The HLA programme is free to employers and there are no course or exam fees for the apprentices or employers.

The Northern Ireland Skills Barometer July 2019 has indicated that there could a shortfall of up to 11,360 skilled IT workers in Northern Ireland by 2028. With this in mind, Belfast Metropolitan College has created two Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes that addresses the need for a skilled workforce in the areas of Cyber Security, Networking, Data Analytics and Software/Cloud development.

Modules

Year 1 Semester 1

• 5 day Bootcamp - IT Specialist Certification in Python

• Systems Design (L4 10 credits)

• Cloud Fundamentals (L4 10 credits)

• Programming (L4 20 credits)

Year 1 Semester 2

• Database Design and Development (L4 20 credits)

• Mathematics for Computing (L4 20 credits)

Year 2 Semester 1

• Machine Learning Fundamentals (Bots and AI) (L4 20 credits)

• Cloud Development (L4 20 credits)

Year 2 Semester 2

• Data Analytics (L5 20 credits)

• Data Visualisation (L5 20 credits)

Year 3 Semester 1

• Distributed Apps (DApps) (L5 20 credits)

• Secure Programming (L5 20 credits)

Year 3 Semester 2

• Work Based Learning (L5 40 credits)

Foundation Degree in Software, Cloud & Application Development additional qualifications

The following vendor qualifications are offered along with the course modules.

• Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

• Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900)

• Microsoft Power Platform Fundamentals (PL-900)

• Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900)

Award

Foundation Degree in Software, Cloud & Application Development

Validated By

The Open University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

Applicants must:
Hold 160 UCAS points or 64 tariff points, GCSEs at C or above in English and Mathematics, or equivalent qualifications, such as Level 2 Essential Skills in Numeracy and Literacy. Consideration for prior learning can also be submitted.

Specific requirements of the programme:

• Each apprentice either is a new employee or is taking on a new job role, with an existing employer, commensurate to the apprenticeship being pursued.

• An appropriate Apprenticeship Agreement is in place with the employer.

Duration

2.5

Start Date

Wednesday 01 November 2023

End Date

Saturday 30 May 2026

Progression Pathway

• Employment; or

• BSc (Hons) Degree in Software, Cloud and Application Development (Top-Up)

Description

You will complete a Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing Technologies along with work related qualifications over a three-year period. The Foundation Degree (FD) in Cloud Computing Technologies is aimed at meeting the local demand of Cloud experts in Northern Ireland. It will cover a range of computing specialisms allowing successful students to follow different career paths. Enter a short description here.

Modules

The Foundation Degree consists of 40 credits (normally 2 modules) per semester in Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3. 

Modules include:

• Computational Mathematics

• Computer Systems

• Programming Fundamentals

• Cloud Fundamentals

• Web Technologies and Applications 

• Data, Information and SQL Software Testing Data Analytics and Visualisation

• Cloud Development

• Innovative Delivery of Mobile Applications

• Work-based Learning   

Assessment:

• Students are assessed using a range of different methods. These include examinations, coursework, project-based learning, presentations, practical, posters, leaflets, role-play, and case studies. This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.                  

Award

Foundation Degree (FD) in Cloud Computing Technologies

Validated By

Open University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

GCSE English

• GCSE English Language Grade C or above or Pass in Level 2 Essential Skills Literacy

GCSE Maths

• GCSE Mathematics Grade C or above (or university equivalent)

3 Additional GCSE’s

• In addition to Maths and English, three additional GCSE’s at Grade C or above are required

UCAS

A minimum of 48 UCAS points:

• A levels  OR

• Level 3 Diploma

Access Diploma

• Access to Higher Education Diploma with an overall average of 45+%

English Language Requirements for International students:

• Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level

• B2 IELTS 6.0 (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)

• PTE 51 Or an approved equivalent test in English

Equivalent qualifications include:

• Grade C (or above) in GCSE English

• Successful completion of a Level 3 Vocational Programme with assessments completed in English Language

• Essential Skills in Literacy (Level 2)

• ESOL Level 2 

Tier 4 Students:

• SERC will only accept a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for issuing a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Admissions

• Successful completion of the admissions process

APEL

• Provide evidence of ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the accreditation of prior experiential learning. Further details on APEL can be found in the admissions section of our website

Duration

3

Start Date

Monday 18 September 2023

End Date

Friday 28 August 2026

Progression Pathway

Successful completion of this course could lead to either a career in the computing industry or to related degree programmes.  SERC offer a 1 year degree top-up for this programme.

Description

A Higher Level Apprenticeship is a work-based programme which helps you to learn while you earn, and gain a recognised qualification. Working with your employer for four days per week, you attend college one day per week, and undertake a Foundation Degree in Computing, that is validated by Ulster University.

Across three years, you will undertake modules in programming, using databases, web and mobile app development, and much more. As well as developing your technical skills, other specialist modules underpin your professional development, giving you the personal skills that you need to succeed in the Computing industries.

This course is specifically aimed either at new employees who want to start work before undertaking a full-time degree course, or at existing IT employees whose roles are changing significantly. The qualification articulates into Ulster University's Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science and Software Engineering, for apprentices who wish to further progress their learning.

Given the demand for IT personnel across all sectors of the economy, Higher Level Apprenticeships provide an excellent pathway for people who want to gain a higher qualification, without running up the levels of debt associated with attending university full-time.

Modules

Year 1

• Programming 1 (Python)

• Personal Development and Professional Practice

• Database Systems

• Programming 2 (Java)

Year 2

• Interactive Web Design

• Mathematics for Computing

• Web Applications Development

• Computer Technology

Year 3

• Cyber Security

• Software Project Development

• Work-based learning (with your employer)

To facilitate students learning in their own time, students are entitled to free Microsoft software for use at home via our Microsoft Imagine programme. This includes Software Development, Web Development, the latest Microsoft Operating Systems and Microsoft Office. HLA students will also have free access to LinkedIn Learning courses.

Additionally, students will also work towards Professional Qualifications from the Microsoft Office Specialist programme and optionally may undertake Microsoft Technology Associate Certification. 

The modules are assessed with a challenging blend of examinations and coursework. The course provides a fantastic opportunity to enter the exciting and well-paid IT industry, both locally and worldwide. 

Many assessments in the course are structured on real-life industry scenarios that students will face in their future careers. There are opportunities to meet software professionals, regular industrial visits and guest speakers. An additional module to enhance your employability is also be included as part of the programme. This programme of study is likely to include enrichment components which are aimed at enhancing your employability.

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

Candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years on or before 1 July in the year you start your course and must satisfy the general entry requirements. 

• Achieved GCSE Maths grade C or above, plus English grade C or above (or Essential Skills in English at Level 2), plus Level 3 qualifications that are equivalent to 56 UCAS points or above.

• Be a new employee in, or about to take up a permanent remunerative employment offer, or an existing employee moving to a new job role that requires a substantial amount of learning and skills development commensurate to the apprenticeship pathway. An exception may be made if an individual is already on an apprenticeship pathway at a lower level, with the HLA providing a progression route without the need to move to a new job role. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure this criteria is met.

• Be employed by a company with a permanent base in Northern Ireland, have a contract of employment in place, be contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes day release/off-the-job directed training) with one employer, and in receipt of the appropriate wage.

• Have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector.

• Pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector.

• Be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland.
  NOTE: you may start your employment up to a maximum of 6 months prior to the commencement of your off-the-job training.  The College will require a copy of your contract of employment and a wage slip to provide evidence that you are employed.

Third country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss Nationals and their family members, are eligible to undertake a HLA provided they have a right to live and work in the UK.  See HLA page for further details.

Where mature students wish to have prior education and/or experience taken into account, in lieu of meeting the full course entry requirements, they should contact the relevant Course Director by 10th August, as an application deadline will apply.

Please note if a course is over-subscribed the College reserves the right to enhance the entry criteria.

Duration

3

Start Date

Tuesday 12 September 2023

End Date

Saturday 27 June 2026

Progression Pathway

Upon successful completion of the Higher Level Apprenticeship, you may be able to continue your studies by working towards a BSc Degree in Computer Science and Software Engineering or progress into more senior roles with your employer.