Software Engineering – MSc

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest

Program Overview

The MSc in Software Engineering at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is designed to fast-track your mastery of advanced software development principles and real-world engineering practices, helping you stand out in a booming tech industry. This one-year full-time programme is ideal for computing or engineering graduates who want to deepen their expertise and explore cutting-edge topics like software design, databases, and systems architecture.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first (and only) year, you’ll build a strong foundation across all stages of the software lifecycle. You’ll dive into Software Design to understand patterns and architectures that solve complex problems, explore Agile Build and Delivery to learn modern development workflows, and work hands-on with Database Systems and Rich Internet Applications to sharpen practical implementation skills. Alongside this, modules like Computer Networks and Telecommunications and Data Visualization ensure you understand how software interacts with infrastructure and users, while the Software Engineering Project lets you pull all your learning together on a substantial real-world challenge.

Focus Areas

Software design and architecture, agile software development, database systems, systems and networks, application development, project-based engineering

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to architect scalable software solutions, apply research-informed engineering practices, lead agile development teams, and solve complex technical problems with industry-standard tools and frameworks

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This programme is awarded at Level 9 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), aligning with professional standards expected in the European tech sector and supporting progression into PhD or specialised roles in software engineering

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

TUS consistently ranks among Ireland’s top universities for graduate employability, with recent Higher Education Authority surveys showing around 85.5% of graduates in work within nine months, reflecting strong industry demand and the university’s applied learning focus

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At TUS, the MSc Software Engineering isn’t just about theory — you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience that mirrors what professional software engineers do every day. The Department of Computer and Software Engineering is housed in a purpose-built Engineering and Informatics building, where you’ll work with real tools and technologies used across the industry, supported by staff who maintain strong links with employers in Ireland’s tech sector. You’ll be encouraged to apply what you learn through substantial project work and close collaboration with peers, all while having access to research environments and facilities that support advanced computing and software development.

To make this experience concrete and career-ready, you will benefit from:

Access to the Software Research Institute (SRI) at TUS, where research in areas like cloud-edge computing, networks, cybersecurity, and immersive systems provides inspiration and opportunities to engage with applied research projects related to software engineering.
A vibrant Athlone campus environment with modern industry-focused facilities that support your learning journey and give you space to apply practical skills.
Use of the TUS Library’s collaborative spaces and computing resources, giving you a hub for coding, research, teamwork, and preparation for your dissertation or project work.
Group-based software projects integrated into your modules — especially the Software Engineering Project — where you’ll plan, design, develop, and test real systems as you would in a professional setting.
Opportunities to learn and work with contemporary tools and frameworks for database, web, and networked applications through modules such as Database Systems, Rich Internet Applications, and Agile Build and Delivery.
Close ties between department staff and industry employers, meaning your hands-on work aligns with what local and international companies are looking for in software experts.

For more on the facilities and support available across TUS campuses to enhance your practical learning, see the official facilities list from TUS.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc in Software Engineering are well‑placed to enter a dynamic tech job market with a strong foundation in modern software development skills. Many go on to roles such as Software Engineer, Full‑Stack Developer, Systems Analyst, or IT Consultant, driven by industry demand for highly skilled computing professionals:

University careers support: TUS offers a dedicated Careers & Employability Service that helps you polish your CV, prepare for interviews, and connect with employers. The service also provides support for arranging work placements and engaging with industry partners, making the transition from study to work smoother and more strategic.
Strong employment outcomes: TUS consistently achieves one of the highest graduate employment rates in Ireland, with approximately 85.5 % of graduates securing employment within nine months of finishing their studies. Many of these roles are in professional or highly skilled positions.
Industry partnerships: The university works closely with employers through curriculum design, careers fairs, and placement support, ensuring your skills match what companies are looking for. Connections with tech-focused research institutes and regional employers further enhance your prospects in sectors where software expertise is critical.
Accreditation value: The MSc is awarded at Level 9 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), which is widely recognized in Ireland and across Europe, boosting your options for work or further study.
Graduation outcomes: Past data shows that TUS postgraduates are highly employable, with around 77–90 % of taught postgraduate students in full-time work within nine months after graduation — a strong signal that this degree leads to real career opportunities.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc, you can continue your academic journey if you choose. Many students move on to Level 9 or Level 10 research-led postgraduate programmes, including PhD study either at TUS or other institutions, opening pathways into advanced research, specialist technical roles, or academic careers.