Computing, Data Analytics & Software - Advanced
The aim of this course is to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the fields of computing, data analytics, and software development.
| Award Name | Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Course Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or equivalent is the standard entry requirement for all Level 5 courses. Leaving Certificate Applied or QQI Level 4 Award are also acceptable on the majority of Level 5 courses. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements (e.g. mature learners etc.) for particular courses may be interviewed.
A QQI Level 5 award or equivalent in a relevant subject area is the standard entry requirement for Level 6 Advanced Certificate courses.
Non-Standard Applicants
Non-Standard Applicants may be required to complete an interview and/or other form of assessment to successfully complete their registration on their chosen programme.
English Language
All courses are delivered through English. In addition to the listed entry requirements, applicants whose first language is not English are required to complete and provide evidence of English language proficiency. Where prospective learners first language is not English, the standard minimum entry requirements for all courses is proficiency at B2 on The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
School Leavers
Whether you have attended school in Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK or further afield, we have a programme to suit your needs. We have a wide range of suitable programmes with internationally recognised certification that will enhance both your career and further education possibilities.
International Students
DIFE welcomes applications from eligible international students. Help and advice is available for international students at every step of the application process and continues after enrolment onto your chosen programme.
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Graduates who successfully complete the Level 6 in Software Development may apply for advanced entry to the second year of many related courses in universities and technological universities. Graduates may gain employment in related IT and Software Development roles locally, nationally or internationally.
Level 7 and 8 Courses to which this course is linked:
IADT
Creative Computing Level 8
UCC
Computer Science Level 8
TU Dublin
Computing/Computing Science/Computer Engineering
Maynooth University
Computing Science/Robotics & Intelligent Devices
ATU (Donegal)
Computing, Mobile Technologies and Cloud Technologies Level 7
DKIT
Computing in Software Development Level 7
Computing Level 7
DCU
BSc Computer Science Level 8
ATU (Galway)
Software and Electronic Engineering Level 8
ATU (Sligo)
Computing (Software Development) Level 7
Entry to a range of other courses in Institutes of Technology.
This is not an exhaustive list. Applicants are advised at all times to confirm linked Awards, any additional module requirements, application processes and scoring systems with the Admissions Offices of the participating higher education institutions, or visit www.cao.ie.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
The aim of this course is to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the fields of computing, data analytics, and software development. Course participants will analyse complex data sets, design and implement innovative software solutions, and apply modern technologies to solve real-world problems.
Object Orientated Programming
Software Architecture
Graphical User Interface Programming
Web Development
Relational Database
Personal and Professional Development
Network Infrastructure
Network Security
Communications
6M0691 - Software Development
Award: QQI Level 6 Advanced Computing, Data Analytics & Software - 6M0691.
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie