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2 Years On Campus Masters Program
University of LimerickThe MSc in Software Development: International Systems at the University of Limerick gives you the skills to design, build, and maintain software solutions that work for users all around the world. It combines hands-on programming, software engineering, and internationalisation techniques to prepare you for a career in global software development, even if your first degree isn’t in computing.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In the first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in software development and system design. You’ll start with core programming modules where you’ll write real-world code and learn essential algorithms, alongside database modules to manage and query data effectively. You’ll also explore internationalisation, learning how to make software adaptable across different cultures, and develop your understanding of user needs and web development through modules in human-computer interaction and web technologies.
Year 2
The second year focuses on deepening your software engineering skills and independent research. You’ll learn how to test and ensure the quality of software and develop apps for mobile devices. You’ll also carry out a major research project or dissertation, applying your knowledge to solve real-world problems in software development. Alongside this, you’ll study advanced topics like data structures, algorithms, and text analytics, broadening your technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
Focus Areas
Software design, programming, software internationalisation, databases, human-computer interaction, web and mobile development, independent research, dissertation project
Learning Outcomes
Gain practical skills in software development, adapt systems for global use, conduct independent research, and build projects that demonstrate technical, analytical, and problem-solving expertise valued by employers worldwide
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This is a Level 9 Masters qualification in Ireland, recognised across Europe, and ideal for careers in international software engineering, localisation, and technology development
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
The University of Limerick is known for strong graduate employability, with excellent links to industry. Graduates from computing and engineering programmes often secure roles ranging from junior developers to localisation engineers
At the University of Limerick, this MSc is all about learning by doing. From the start, you’ll be writing real code, building software, and tackling practical problems just like professional developers. You’ll learn in modern computer labs with the latest development tools, and you’ll collaborate closely with classmates on team projects. The programme also gives you the chance to explore your own ideas through a substantial research-based dissertation, helping you develop both technical and project management skills.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience during the course:
Hands-on computer labs and development environments: Access purpose-built labs equipped with up-to-date PCs and software for programming, databases, and system design.
Industry-relevant tools and software: Use the same professional tools and applications that are widely used in the software industry, preparing you for real-world work.
Collaborative coursework and group projects: Work in teams on modules like web development, mobile app development, and software engineering, mirroring real industry workflows.
Research-focused dissertation: Conduct an independent project in your second year, exploring a topic in depth and presenting your findings — a great way to showcase your skills.
Access to research centres and academic communities: Benefit from UL’s active computing and software research community, with connections to centres focused on human-computer interaction and software localisation.
Library and support resources: Make use of the Glucksman Library for books, digital resources, group study spaces, and other support tailored to postgraduate students.
These experiences ensure you don’t just learn theory — you develop the practical skills and professional confidence to hit the ground running in your software development career.
Graduates from this MSc are well-prepared to step into exciting careers where they can design, build, and adapt software for global markets. Typical roles include Junior Software Developer, Front-end or Database Developer, Requirements Engineer, or Localisation Engineer, all highly sought after in tech companies, consultancies, and product teams:
Career support and pathways:
University career services: UL’s Careers & Co-op team provides personalised advice, CV and interview workshops, on-campus career fairs, employer presentations, and a dedicated job portal to help you connect with potential employers throughout your studies.
Strong employability stats: UL graduates enjoy excellent employment outcomes, with most securing work or further study shortly after graduation.
Industry partnerships: The university has strong links with hundreds of employers, giving you opportunities to network, gain insights, and even work on projects connected to real companies.
Accreditation and long-term value: This Master’s is a Level 9 qualification in Ireland, recognised across Europe, giving you credibility and mobility in the global job market.
Graduate outcomes: Many students go directly into software engineering, technology services, and internationalisation roles. Ireland’s welcoming post-study work policies for Master’s graduates also give you valuable time to establish your career.
Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, you can move into research-based degrees or a PhD in areas such as software engineering, human-computer interaction, or localisation technologies. UL provides opportunities to work alongside leading academics on cutting-edge projects, helping you contribute to advances in global software systems.
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in any non-computing discipline such as linguistics, arts, humanities, social sciences, science, business, or health and medicine.Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview.Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 580 (paper-based) or 90 (internet-based), or an Academic IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0; General IELTS is not accepted.Applicants from India should hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree or a three-year honours Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised university, typically with first-division results (55–70% overall), and may be required to attend an interview.Applicants from the USA should have a GPA of 3.00 or higher in a four-year degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised university and may be required to attend an interview.Applicants from China should have high grades in a four-year degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised competitive university, and may be required to attend an interview.Junior Software DeveloperFront-end DeveloperBack-end DeveloperFull-stack DeveloperDatabase DeveloperMobile Applications DeveloperSoftware EngineerSystems AnalystRequirements EngineerLocalisation EngineerWeb DeveloperIT ConsultantQuality Assurance TesterUser Experience (UX) DesignerSoftware Project Manager
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