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Computer Science - Pre-University

PLC Post Leaving Cert
5M0536

If you are looking for a comprehensive grounding in computing, then this is the course for you. Pre-university Computer Science will help you towards a career in technical support, networking, cyber security, computer maintenance, sales and/or marketing and customer support. This course is an excellent choice for progression to higher education – Level 7/8 qualifications in Computer Science and related spheres.

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
Alternate Provider:
Location:
Carlow Town
Attendance Options:
Full time
Apply to:
Course provider

Duration

1 year

Entry Requirements

For Level 5 courses:

Over 17 years of age and successful completion of upper secondary education (i.e. 5th and 6th year) or equivalent
AND
Successful completion of a Leaving Certificate (or equivalent international qualification)
OR
Successful completion of a Level 4 major award (or equivalent international qualification)

For Level 6 courses:

The basic entry requirement to all full-time Level 6 programmes is the successful completion of a Level 5 major award (or equivalent international qualification)
Applicants who do not meet these requirements, and who are between 17 and 23 years old, will be referred to our Guidance Counsellor.

Garda Vetting (Clearance)

Garda Vetting (police / criminal records clearance) is a requirement on courses where students have access to children or vulnerable adults. Students must be vetted for clearance by the Gardaí prior to attending work experience. It is your responsibility to obtain Garda Vetting Clearance / criminal records clearance.

Students who have lived outside the jurisdiction of Ireland /Northern Ireland, and for whom Garda vetting / clearance is unavailable, are required to provide verifiable evidence of criminal records clearance from the relevant police authorities.

We will provide you with information about making an application for clearance, but it is your responsibility to complete any necessary application and to obtain clearance. If you are offered a place on a course, you will be issued with information at registration.

Careers / Further progression

Progression
Progress to further study and careers including:

IT Technical Support
Network Support
Computer Manufacturing
End User Support
Cyber Security
Financial Institutions
Computer Sales and Marketing
Call Centres
Business

QQI FET Links to CAO Courses

Course Web Page

Further information

These means-tested maintenance grants are available to eligible students attending approved full-time courses of further education, in approved Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) centres.

Applications are made online to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) through www.studentfinance.ie www.susi.ie

You will be invited to an interview – this is to make sure that you’ve made the right choice!

Applications will be open online for 2025 entry at the end of January 2025. Students may apply online at www.carlowinstitute.ie

By combining practical and theoretical learning, you will gain valuable experience in computer maintenance, hardware and software management, network administration, programming systems, and ICT security. This course fosters transferable skills that can be utilised across diverse fields, including problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

What Makes This Course Special

Progress to higher education
Learn from knowledgeable instructors
Gain practical experience
Implement ICT theory in real-world tasks
Manage your own practical projects focused on problem-solving and solutions
Explore direct employment opportunities

Course Content

Computer Systems Hardware
ICT Security Policy and Management
Maths for IT
Networking Essentials
Programming and Design Principles
Operating Systems
Communications
Work Experience

Certification
QQI Level 5 Certificate in Computer Systems and Networks 5M0536

Course is subject to minimum enrolment. The programme content shown is indicative and is subject to change according to Awarding Body requirements as well as enrolment and resources.

5M0536 - Computer Systems & Networks

Phone: 059 913 4230
Email: Email: Info@CarlowInstitute.ie
Web: www.Carlowinstitute.ie

Alternate Provider:
Location:
Carlow Town
Attendance Options:
Full time
Apply to:
Course provider