
The Department of Computer Science at Maynooth University today welcomed the launch of the Springboard programmes by the Minister for Education. Springboard courses at Maynooth University include the Higher Diploma in Science (Software Development), ICT Skills Higher Diploma in Science (Software Development) and the Certificate in Science (Software Development). Both half-time and full-time programmes are available and they are free to applicants eligible under the Springboard scheme. Students can apply for Maynooth University ’s Springboard courses via www.springboardcourses.ie
Discussing the courses, Tom Lysaght, Head of Computer Science at Maynooth University: “The Computer Science Department is delighted to offer a range of postgraduate ICT skills courses funded under the HEA Springboard Scheme. Maynooth University courses equip students with the latest skills and expertise in software engineering, software development, design and testing. Students experience the latest technologies in multimedia, mobile and web development, with a particular focus on preparation for work placement. We also provide a pathway for students who excel to progress to Masters’ level. We are very proud to collaborate with key industry players such as Microsoft Ireland and Senteniel here in Maynooth to ensure that our students are best prepared for the marketplace.”

Dr Kevin Marshall, Education Lead, from Microsoft Ireland said: “Microsoft Ireland has enjoyed a long and successful relationship with the Department of Computer Science at Maynooth University and we are delighted with the continued investment by the University’s in its new ICT courses. Over the years we have collaborated on a number of initiatives in relation to the curriculum and through the Imagine Cup, our student technology competition. The passion of academics and the calibre of students from Maynooth are always exemplary and I have every confidence that the new courses will be a major success. We welcome Maynooth University ’s focus on cutting edge technologies and its emphasis on developing students with key skills such as C#, .NET, and Azure technologies. We wish the team at Maynooth University the best of luck with the implementation and roll out of these new courses.”
Courses:
It will be possible from the 9th June to apply for the Maynooth University Springboard courses via the www.springboardcourses.ie website. Interested applicants should apply using the Springboard application form found on the www.springboardcourses.ie website.
- Higher Diploma in Science (Software Development): The Higher Diploma in Science (Software Development) (half time) is a one-year programme in Maynooth for students who already have at least 30 credits prior learning in computer programming, software or computer science at NFQ level 6 or above. The focus is on industrial software development using the Java programming language. The course includes Software Design, Mobile Application and Web Development. The course includes project work providing essential practice for working in a software development environment. A capstone module prepares students for Java Certification exams. A work placement module at the end of the course provides experience in putting the skills learned into practice. This is a level 8 undergraduate Diploma.
- ICT SKILLS Higher Diploma in Science (Software Development) is a one-year full-time programme in Maynooth for students who already have a level 8 qualification in a subject other than computer science or software development. The focus is on industrial software development using the Java programming language. The course includes foundational material, databases, object-oriented programming, software design, mobile application and web development. The course includes a team project providing essential practice for working in a software development environment. A capstone module prepares students for Java Certification exams (1Z0-803 Java 7). A work placement module at the end of the course provides experience in putting the skills learned into practice.
- The NUI Certificate in Science (Software Development) is a one-year half-time programme in Maynooth for students who have at least one post-leaving-certificate qualification. The focus is on industrial software development using the Java programming language. It assumes no previous computing knowledge. The course includes Introduction to programming, databases, computer systems and software testing. The course includes team project work providing essential practice for working in a software development environment. A capstone module prepares students for Java Certification exams. A work placement module at the end of the course provides experience in putting the skills learned into practice.
Want to learn more about Springboard at Maynooth? Come to the Dublin roadshow in CHQ Building on the 17th June 2014 from 10.30-4.30pm.
If you would like details on other post graduate opportunities at Maynooth University.