Software Development
You will gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in modern programming language principles and applications.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
38 weeks.
Entry Requirements
Minimum:
- Applicants must be 16+ years of age on entry to the course.
- Leaving Cert, LCVP, LCA or QQI Level 4 Major Award is essential.
- Mature applicant route available for applicants aged 23+.
- Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B2 or Higher).
- Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland.
Additional:
Must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Careers / Further progression
What are the progression opportunities?
If you complete a QQI major award with Kerry College, you may use your results to progress to third level (University, Technological University or Institute of Technology). You may apply under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). A limited number of places are available each year. Some examples include:
B.Sc. (Ord/Hons) Computer Science at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. (Ord/Hons) Computing with Software Development at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. (Ord/Hons) Computing with Games Development at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.Sc. (Hons) Computer Science at University College Cork (UCC)
B.A. (Hons) Psychology and Computing at University College Cork (UCC)
B.Eng. (Hons) Electronic and Computer Engineering at University of Limerick (UL)
B.Sc. (Ord) Software Systems Development at South East Technological University (SETU)
B.Bs (Hons) Business Information Systems at South East Technological University (SETU)
You should check individual university websites for specific entry criteria for courses.
There is a separate section on the CAO application for applying using your QQI results from Kerry College in the same way you use your Leaving Certificate results.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026.
Apply online via the Kerry College Website - link above.
Your application will be processed using FETCHCOURSES - the National FET Course Application System.
If you haven't signed up for a FETCH account, you'll need to do this first. It's free and a one-time setup.
Why should I apply?
• Build a strong broad foundation in computing: courses include Computer Programming (Java, GDScript, HTML5/CSS, Java Script, PHP, OOP principles), Virtual machines, Operating System, Maths, Networking, UML Design.
• Become More confident ahead of computing degree.
• Establish if you truly want to study a computing degree.
• Access to the latest technologies.
• Become more proficient with programming in general.
• Learn to communicate effectively within a team.
• Better preparation now may save time and money in potential unsuccessful attempts at 3rd level course.
• Direct links to MTU and other major IT’s and Universities.
What is the certification?
QQI Level 5 Major Award Certificate in Software Development (5M0529).
What will I study?
Communications (5N0690)
Fundamentals of Object Oriented Programming (5N0541)
Maths for Information Technology (5N18396)
Networking Essentials (5N2929)
Operating Systems (5N2928)
Programming and Design Principles (5N2927)
Software Architecture (5N2772)
Web Authoring (5N1910)
Work Experience (5N1356)
5M0529 - Software Development
Clash Road,
Tralee, Co. Kerry
V92 Y991
Tel: (066) 7121 741
e: clashroad@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm