This 4‑year BSc (Hons) in Computing at NCI is a practical degree that equips you with the programming, problem‑solving, and digital skills to develop real‑world software—from mobile apps and games to secure cloud solutions. Ideal for students interested in technology, it immerses you in the worlds of AI, software development, cybersecurity, IoT, and networking—providing a great foundation for an exciting career.
Curriculum Structure
• Year 1 (Semesters 1–2): You’ll begin by mastering fundamentals such as Programming Concepts, Computational Thinking, and Introduction to Data Science & AI, alongside core computing modules like Computer Architecture, Operating Systems, and Introduction to Databases. These build your essential skills in algorithmic logic, web development, and database systems.
• Year 2 (Semesters 3–4): Building on your foundation, Year 2 introduces Object-Oriented Programming, Advanced Databases, and Data Programming, along with further focus on Statistics I & II and Data Mining & Machine Learning. You'll also study Web App Development, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Data Visualisation, developing both technical and analytical expertise.
• Year 3 (Semesters 5–6): Your technical skills continue through upper-level modules like Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Machine Learning, Data Architecture, Data Warehousing & Business Intelligence, and Scalable Data Analytics. The second semester comprises a six-month professional placement or internship paid in industry, offering practical experience.
• Year 4 (Semesters 7–8): You'll do a Final Year Project in your third year, along with electives like Neural Networks & Prescriptive Analytics, Text Analytics & NLP, Applied Deep Learning, IoT Real Time Analytics, and Time Series & Financial Analytics. You'll also learn Governance, Ethics, Security & Sustainability, in preparation for real-world, ethical computing challenges.
Focus areas: games programming, software development, AI/machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud & networking, blockchain, digital business transformation.
Learning outcomes: Students graduate with the capacity to create software across platforms and devices, incorporate multimedia, analyze and secure data, and solve real business problems with the existing technologies.
Professional alignment (accreditation): The degree is QQI-accredited (Irish National Framework Level 8) and positions the student for industry certification in leading technologies.
Reputation (employability rankings): NCI has a 96% employability rate for computing graduates, and graduates are working in organisations like Microsoft, Intel, ESB, Wells Fargo, and Datalex
Students are provided with hands-on, real-world experience in NCI's cutting-edge computing labs, including cloud environments, cybersecurity testbeds, IoT workspaces, and multimedia suites. You'll create live industry-style projects, utilize industry professional tools and frameworks, and benefit from a six-month integrated work placement in Year 3.
Here's how this happens:
Graduates leave NCI well-prepared to land roles such as Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Scientist, or Cloud Engineer—thanks to real-world training and strong employer links:
Career Development & Employability Services: support with CVs, mock interviews, employer events, and alumni mentoring.
Employment Statistics: 96% of Computing graduates in employment within nine months; 76% do placements—and 33% go on to work with their placement provider.
Salary Snapshot: ICT graduates in Ireland have the highest median earnings five years after graduation.
University–Industry Collaborations: Partnerships with Microsoft, Intel, Citi, Vodafone, ESB, and Enterprise Ireland inform coursework and placement opportunities.
Accreditation & Long-Term Value: QQI-accredited Level 8 degree with preparation for industry certificates and progression to Level 9 postgraduate study.
Graduate Destinations: Alumni in roles such as Full-Stack Engineer, QA Analyst, GIS Engineer, Detection & Response Analyst, Data Analyst, and Cloud Resident.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates can continue to Level 9 with NCI’s MSc programmes in areas like Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Fintech, and Artificial Intelligence
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