Software Design with Cloud Native Computing – MSc

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest

Program Overview

The MSc in Software Design with Cloud Native Computing at Technological University of the Shannon prepares you to design and build modern, scalable software applications tailored for dynamic cloud environments, leveraging microservices and the latest automation practices. This programme is ideal for graduates who want to advance into high-demand cloud-centric tech roles and gain hands-on expertise in technologies like Kubernetes, Docker, and continuous deployment.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Semester 1
You’ll start by strengthening core software engineering skills with Object Oriented Programming 1, building object-oriented solutions while deepening your scripting knowledge in Applied Scripting Languages. At the same time, Research Methods & Professional Practice equips you with key professional and research skills that support your project work throughout the year.

Year 1 – Semester 2
In the second semester, you’ll expand into advanced software design with Object Oriented Programming 2 and dive into modern architectural styles in Microservices Architecture — learning how to break large applications into flexible, cloud-ready components. Continuous Build and Delivery shows you how to automate testing and deployment, while the Engineering Team Project gives practical team experience, and ICT Placement Preparation gets you ready for real-world placements.

Year 1 – Semester 3
The final part of the programme focuses on real industry experience: you can choose between a Work Placement & Professional Practice to apply your skills in a professional setting or a Dissertation to pursue research into cloud-native computing challenges. These capstone options ensure you graduate with both practical exposure and academic depth.

Focus Areas

Cloud-native application design, microservices architecture, container orchestration such as Kubernetes and Docker, continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD) automation, real-world engineering projects, and professional research practice.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to design, deploy, and maintain scalable cloud-native systems; implement automated build, test, and delivery workflows; and demonstrate professional readiness through industry placement or a substantial research dissertation.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This programme is a Level 9 Master of Science (90 ECTS) award on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, ensuring academic recognition across Europe and strong professional credibility in global tech sectors.

Reputation (Employability)

Technological University of the Shannon builds strong industry relevance into this programme with a focus on real-world technologies that employers are actively seeking, including cloud-native design, CI/CD pipelines, and microservices — skills increasingly demanded by leading tech companies worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On this programme, you won’t just learn the theory behind cloud‑native systems—you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience using industry-relevant tools and environments. You will work on building and managing microservices, automating software builds and deployments, and experimenting with containerisation technologies that are widely used in professional settings. Throughout the year, you will have access to dedicated computing facilities, collaborative spaces for teamwork and research, and extensive library resources to support your learning.

Your practical experiences include:

Using cloud-native platforms and tools such as Kubernetes, Docker, and cloud services like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud to build real software systems.
Participating in the Engineering Team Project, collaborating with peers to design, develop, and present a complete software solution, simulating real-world development teams.
Completing a Work Placement & Professional Practice, offering direct industry experience, or alternatively a Dissertation project to apply your skills to a substantial research or practical challenge.
Preparing for industry placements through ICT Placement Preparation, refining professional skills and understanding workplace expectations.
Accessing TUS Library’s resources, study spaces, digital tools, group work rooms, and PCs to support research, coding, and collaboration.
Utilizing IT support and computing services to ensure you have the technical infrastructure needed to work effectively with software development environments and digital resources on campus.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this programme are well-positioned for careers in today’s fast-evolving tech sector, especially where demand for cloud-native skills continues to grow. You could move into roles such as Cloud Solutions Architect, DevOps Engineer, Cloud Application Developer, or Agile Project Manager, building systems that scale in cloud environments:

University Careers Support: Technological University of the Shannon’s Careers & Employability service helps you refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and connect with potential employers through networking events and outreach. The programme also includes ICT Placement Preparation and a mandatory work placement or dissertation option, ensuring you gain practical experience that employers value.
Employment Outlook: Cloud computing and software development remain strong growth areas within Ireland’s ICT sector, with a high demand for professionals skilled in cloud and microservices technologies.
University–Industry Alignment: The course was developed in partnership with the Midlands Regional Skills Manager and relevant companies, and includes opportunities to work on real-world company-driven projects, helping you build industry connections while you study.
Accreditation Value: As a Level 9 Master of Science award under the Irish National Framework of Qualifications with strong links to industry needs, your degree holds long-term credibility in Ireland and internationally, helping you progress into senior technical or leadership roles.
Graduate Outcomes: Upon completion, you are also eligible to pursue research opportunities at PhD level either at TUS or other universities, providing options for advanced academic or specialised technical progression.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this Master’s, you could continue your studies with a PhD or other research degree at TUS or elsewhere. This pathway is ideal if you enjoy research or want to pursue roles in advanced technical innovation, teaching, or specialised consultancy.