Computer Support Technician
This Computer Support Technician, Level 5 course is designed to equip learners with essential skills and knowledge in computer systems, hardware and software maintenance, networking, virtualization, and programming. There are numerous employment opportunities in the ICT field. Successful graduates will be well-prepared for roles in technical support and troubleshooting various hardware issues.
| 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
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:
Network installation
Computer maintenance
IT Technician
TU716 L7 Networking Technologies – TU Dublin City Campus
TU713 L7 Computer Engineering – TU Blanchardstown
TU655 L6 Networking Technologies (learn & work) – TU Blanchardstown.
Cybercrime & IT Security
Computer Applications or Programming
Software Development
WD151 Software Systems Development
Computer Forensics and Security
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
Combining practical and theoretical learning, you will gain hands-on experience in computer maintenance, hardware and software management, and network administration. You will also study programming systems and ICT security. This course encourages the development of problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills, opening doors to careers in a diverse range of ICT and network management fields.
What Makes This Course Special
Gain practical experience
Learn from experienced instructors
Apply ICT theory to practical tasks
Lead your own practical projects in problem solving and solutions
Participate in visits & field trips
Explore numerous pathways to higher education or direct employment options
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.
Course Content
Computer Systems Hardware
Networking Essentials
Operating Systems
Mathematics for IT
Programming and Design
ICT Support Policy and Management
Teamworking
Work Experience
5M0536 - Computer Systems & Networks
Phone: 059 913 4230
Email: Email: Info@CarlowInstitute.ie
Web: www.Carlowinstitute.ie