BSc in Computing Systems and Operations (Software Development and DevOps)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Dundalk Institute of Technology

Program Overview

The BSc in Computing Systems and Operations at DkIT combines software development with IT operations, giving you the skills to not just build technology but also deploy and manage it in real-world settings. It’s ideal for students who enjoy coding, problem-solving, and want a career where they can bridge the gap between development teams and operational systems.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In the first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in computing, covering modules such as Introduction to Programming, Front-End Development, System Administration, Networking, and Databases. You’ll also explore the DevOps lifecycle and system testing, gaining an understanding of how software is designed, tested, and prepared for deployment, while developing key problem-solving and communication skills.

Year 2
The second year expands your technical knowledge with Object-Oriented Programming and Solutions Architecture, alongside Operating Systems and Advanced Routing and Switching. You’ll also study Software Testing and Virtualisation, equipping you with the skills to design robust solutions and understand how systems operate in real environments.

Year 3
In the third year, your focus shifts to professional practice with modules like Algorithms, Data Structures, and Network Protocols. You’ll work on a DevOps Group Project, explore Automation and Production Processes, and have the opportunity for a 15-week work placement or a semester abroad, applying your skills in real industry settings and building professional experience.

Focus areas: software development, systems administration, networking, DevOps practices, and cloud-ready operations

Learning outcomes: graduates will be able to design, build, and operate modern software systems, with a strong understanding of development lifecycles, automated deployment pipelines, and IT operations

Professional alignment (accreditation): this Level 7 degree is officially recognised in Ireland and prepares students for progression to a Level 8 honours programme or professional roles in the computing industry

Reputation (employability rankings): computing and IT skills are in high demand, and graduates from DkIT are known for their practical, hands-on experience and readiness to contribute to the workplace

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At DkIT, learning goes far beyond theory — you’ll be actively applying your skills from the very start. The Computing Systems and Operations programme is designed around hands-on experience with real-world tools and modern campus facilities. You’ll work in well-equipped computer labs, receive guidance and support through the IT Learning Centre, and complete a substantial work placement that lets you test your skills in an actual workplace. Teamwork is central to the course, with group projects reflecting how tech teams collaborate in professional environments. You’ll also gain experience with current industry tools like GitLab, Docker, Kubernetes, and Terraform.

Here’s a closer look at the practical experiences you’ll get:

Industry tools and collaborative labs: Work in dedicated computing labs with current software and development environments, gaining experience similar to a real tech workplace.
IT Learning Centre support: Access workshops covering programming languages, networking, and databases, helping you build confidence and deepen your skills outside of lectures.
Group projects: Participate in team projects such as the Year 3 DevOps Group Project, learning how to collaborate on real software development and operations tasks.
Work placement experience: In your third year, complete a 15-week work placement or an approved semester abroad to apply your skills in a professional setting and build industry connections.
Software access and digital tools: Get access to Microsoft 365, Moodle for course content and collaboration, and discounted software through the DkIT software access programme, supporting your project work and learning.
Campus facilities and support services: Make use of the library with PCs and study spaces, and take advantage of student development centres that help with academic, digital, and professional skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Computing Systems and Operations degree are well equipped to begin careers in a variety of high-demand tech roles, including DevOps Engineer, Software Developer, Site Reliability Engineer, and Systems Administrator. You’ll leave with both practical experience and industry-relevant skills that allow you to step confidently into the workplace or build toward more advanced technical or managerial positions:

Career support services: The Careers and Employability Centre at DkIT offers one-to-one career guidance, CV and interview workshops, employability events, internship support, and an annual Careers Fair connecting students with employers.
Graduate employment and earnings: Most DkIT graduates move into employment or further study shortly after graduation, with many starting salaries at or above the national graduate average.
University–industry connections: The Placement Office maintains partnerships with a wide range of organisations in Ireland, helping students secure work placements directly related to their degree, which often lead to full-time job offers.
Long-term accreditation value: This Level 7 computing qualification is recognised in Ireland and internationally, and its combination of development and operations skills provides flexibility to work in diverse tech environments or pursue further study.
Graduate outcomes: Employers value graduates who can work across both software development and IT operations, giving you strong career mobility and progression opportunities.

Further Academic Progression:
If you wish to continue your studies, you could progress into honours-level degrees such as the Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Computing Systems and Operations or other related computing honours programmes. Postgraduate options, including an MSc in Applied Data Science or other advanced computing courses, are also available, allowing you to specialise in areas like data analytics, machine learning, or advanced software engineering.