Information Technology & Cybersecurity - Cork
This programme provides students with the knowledge, skills and competencies in IT infrastructure, security, emerging technologies, systems management, database systems and IT applications. The programme is designed around five key strategic pillars; Networking, Security, Cloud Computing Technologies, Scripting and Database Systems. The students who enrol on this programme will study modules aligned to the above areas.
| Award Name | Level 6 Higher Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | Munster Technological University |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 6 Higher Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Major | Munster Technological University | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
At least 6 semesters, depending on the number of modules taken per semester
Course Delivery:
All lectures and labs are 100% online. Certain semester terminal examinations will need to be completed on-campus in Bishopstown, Cork.
Entry Requirements
Entry 2025
Non-Standard Applicants: Mature Students, FETAC (now QQI) Level 5 applicants are particularly welcome.
Standard Applicants: Leaving Certificate Grade O6/H7 (pre. 2017, D3 Ordinary Level) in five subjects to include Mathematics and either English or Irish.
What is RPL?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is when formal recognition is given for what you already know prior to starting on a programme or module. With recognition of prior learning the focus is on learning and not on experience as such. You can apply for RPL in any MTU accredited programme or module. Programmes which are accredited by professional bodies or any external awarding bodies may have their own procedures for RPL which you should refer to.
Careers / Further progression
Career options
Employment Opportunities
Graduates who can coordinate and supervise the configuration, testing and deployment of IT Services and the ongoing support of those systems and their users are in constant demand.
IT Support engineer
Database administrator
Network administrator
System administrator
Progression
Further Studies
Graduates who have achieved an average of at least 40% in the Higher Certificate are eligible to progress to stage 3 of the following part-time programme: BSc in Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Further information
Start Date
Monday 8th, September 2025
€275 per 5 credit module in stages 1 and 2.
Please note that applicants will be required to pay an acceptance fee of €500 online if a place on a course is offered. This fee is deductible from the overall course fee.
Note: You will not be charged for applying for the programme by clicking the 'apply now' button, you are only asked to pay an acceptance fee if a place is offered to you, and you wish to accept it.
Application Deadline Friday 5th, September 2025
This programme provides students with the knowledge, skills and competencies in IT infrastructure, security, emerging technologies, systems management, database systems and IT applications. The programme is designed around five key strategic pillars; Networking, Security, Cloud Computing Technologies, Scripting and Database Systems. The students who enrol on this programme will study modules aligned to the above areas.
Students will also learn about Information Security, a rapidly expanding sector in the computer industry. As more technology goes online, students will learn how secure private and sensitive information is most at risk from cyberattacks. The aim of the degree is to produce graduates with skills in IT infrastructure, operating systems, systems administration, cloud computing technologies and cybersecurity.
Graduates will be able to design, deploy and administer virtualised environments, deploy and configure networks, and secure IT infrastructures and IT Systems. At a time of increasing reliance on IT services, the demand for graduates with the skills to implement and maintain IT infrastructure remains high. This programme is specifically designed to address this need.
First year at a glance
The first year curriculum is common for all degrees in the Department of Computer Science, MTU Bishopstown Campus. All first-year students study the same modules and this means that students can transfer to another programme within the Department in year two if they meet the CAO entry requirements for that programme when they enter MTU Bishopstown Campus, Cork. This offers great flexibility for qualifying students who may wish to change programmes after year one. This flexibility allows a student to make a more informed decision one year into their studies.
The first year curriculum for all students focuses on the fundaments of Computer Science. Modules include:
Programming Fundamentals
Web Development Fundamentals
Computer Architecture
Computer Security Principles
Maths for Computer Science
Modular Programming
Introduction to Databases
Operating Systems in Practice
Networking Fundamentals
Physical Computing
Tríona McSweeney
T: +353 (0)21 432 6015
Email: triona.mcsweeney@mtu.ie