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International Software Design (with International Placement) – BSc (Hons)

  • CAO Points: New for 2024

  • Campus: Athlone

  • years: 4


Course Overview

Software is driving the development of new, innovative applications and services that are transforming industries and improving people’s lives. The overall aim of the programme is to develop a high level of intellectual awareness and professional international based competence in the area of software development. In a sector such as software design the global nature of the industry requires an international focus.

With the adaption of Internet of Things Software Design has become a critical component of many global industries. Therefore, Software Engineers need to understand the needs and preferences of different cultures and be able to develop software that can be used by people from diverse backgrounds.

The programme offers an integrated an internationalised approach to delivering end to end software development skills. The focus on the practical problem-solving skills required for software developers. Programme participants will also gain an integrated and critical knowledge of the skills and particular technologies widely used in the industry today.

The strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training (ET 2020) provides common strategic objectives for EU Member States. For 2020, for Higher Education (HE) mobility the benchmark defined is that at least 20% of Higher Education graduates should have experienced a period of Higher Education related study or training (including work placements) abroad. The benefits of international study for students has long been established within the EU.

In Eastern Europe, students who have studied internationally are more than five times (83 %) less likely to experience long-term unemployment than those not participating in the programme. In Southern Europe, former Erasmus+ students are half as likely to experience long-term unemployment compared to those who have not benefited from the programme. Erasmus+ students in Southern Europe are employed much more frequently even 5-10 years after graduation, with 56% less unemployment.

Contact Details

Dr. Enda Fallon

Head of Department

Email: Enda.Fallon@tus.ie

Dr. Declan Byrne

Programme Leader

Email: Declan.Byrne@tus.ie

What are the entry requirements?

Leaving Certificate

Grade H5 in two subjects, plus Grade O6/H7 at ordinary level in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

QQI

FETAC applicants to this programme must hold one of the following awards: 5M0536 Computer Systems and Networks or 5M0529 Software Development.

Mature Applicants

Candidates applying as mature applicants may be required to attend an interview and may be requested to take an aptitude test to prove their suitability for a place on this programme.

International Applicants

International applicants should apply directly to the International Office at TUS, allowing plenty of time for completing the visa process. Applications for September start should be made by 1st June at the latest to ensure visas are processed in time. You should familiarise yourself with visa processing times for your country of origin to ensure you make a timely application. Find out more here.

Course Modules

  • Mathematics for Software Design 1.1

    Credits: 5

    The purpose of this module is to equip the student with the necessry skills to solve a range of problems in Alebra and Real Analysis pertinent to a first year honours degree programme. No prior knowledge beyone basic numaracy is assumed. Technologoies such as Geogebra, Moodle Quizzes, and CMAs are emplyed to help the student comprehend new concepts and to build a foundation for modules to follow.

  • Software Development 1.1

    Credits: 5

    1. An understanding of the fundamentals of structured software development.
    2. To develop students programming skills.
    3. To enable the students to write programs competently.

  • Digitalisation for Connected Devices 1.1

    Credits: 5

    Connected devices are physical objects that are equipped with sensors, software, and network connectivity that allow them to communicate with other devices and exchange data. Examples of connected devices include smart home appliances, wearable fitness trackers, industrial sensors, and autonomous vehicles. Digitalisation refers to the process of using digital technologies to transform and streamline business processes, services, or products. This can involve using digital tools to automate tasks, store and process data, improve communication, and enhance customer experience. This module analyses how digitalisation strategies can be integrated with the rich sensory capability of connected devices to optimise business processes.

  • Web App Development Development with AI 1.1

    Credits: 5

    This module covers topics that include theories, components and services that constitute the Internet. Theories will be supported with practical’s allowing the learner to understand the different components and construction of web pages and forms. Learners will learn how cascading style sheets (CSS) are associated with and influence the appearance of web pages/websites. Learners will also use a lightweight framework for developing and designing responsive websites.

    Learners will then have to apply the theories and technologies demonstrated in lecturers to design, create and deploy a responsive website employing CSS, video and images. Learners will also gain experience uploading websites to the cloud.

  • French 1.1

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with an introduction to French and to the culture of the countries in which it is spoken. It broadly corresponds to Level A1 on the CEFR.

  • Communication for University 1

    Credits: 5

    The module develops students’ oral and written communication skills and equips them with key IT skills for the third-level academic environment.

  • Mathematics for Software Design 1.2

    Credits: 5

    The purpose of this module is to equip the student with the necessary skills to solve a range of problems in Analysis, Complex Numbers, and Statistics pertinent to a first year honours degree programme. No prior knowledge beyond basic numeracy is assumed. Technologies such as Moodle Quizzes are employed to help the student comprehend new concepts and to build a foundation for modules to follow.

  • Software Development 1.2

    Credits: 5

    1. An understanding of the fundamentals of structured software development.
    2. To develop students programming skills.
    3. To enable the students to write programs competently.

  • Digitalisation For Connected Devices 1.2

    Credits: 5

    Connected devices are physical objects that are equipped with sensors, software, and network connectivity that allow them to communicate with other devices and exchange data. Examples of connected devices include smart home appliances, wearable fitness trackers, industrial sensors, and autonomous vehicles. Digitalisation refers to the process of using digital technologies to transform and streamline business processes, services, or products. This can involve using digital tools to automate tasks, store and process data, improve communication, and enhance customer experience. This module analyses how digitalisation strategies can be integrated with the rich sensory capability of connected devices to optimise business processes.

  • Web App Development with AI 1.2

    Credits: 5

    In this module, learners will understand the architecture of web applications, server side and client side technologies. Learners will focus on developing a dynamic client side application developed using JavaScript and DOM scripting that will be deployed to the cloud. Learners will also gain knowledge in cognitive services used in industry and understand how data is processed, labelled and embedded using a well- defined API.

  • French 1.2

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with the practical language and other relevant skills they need to survive when travelling in countries where French is spoken. It broadly corresponds to Level A1 on the CEFR.

  • Communication for Engineering 1

    Credits: 5

    This module will develop students’ ability to communicate about technical topics relating to their discipline in Engineering.

  • Mathematics for Software Design 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This module has the following aims:
    1. To further build on the foundation from year 1 for subsequent mathematical courses.
    2. To provide the necessary problem-solving skills for other subjects in year 2 and later.
    3. To use symbolic mathematical software and tutorials to improve the student’s problem-solving skills.

  • Software Development 2.1

    Credits: 5

    The purpose of this module is to build on the programming fundamentals learned in first year and introduce higher levels of abstraction. In addition, the students will start their journey towards Java Foundations Associate Certification (1Z0-811).

  • German 1.1

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with an introduction to German and to the culture of the countries in which it is spoken.

  • Web Development 2.1

    Credits: 5

    The module covers a dynamic client side scripting language that enables the student to manipulate the Web page via the Document Object Model (DOM) model. The DOM Core and DOM HTML specifications are also covered.

  • Databases 2

    Credits: 5

    1. Cover all technical skills associated with the design and development of Relational Database Applications.
    2. Gain practical experience in the use of a Database Development Environment.

  • Agile Methodoglogies 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This module provides an introduction to the following different types of agile methodologies: Scrum, Extreme Programming, and Kanban by focusing on the key processes of Requirements, Pair Programming and Test Driven Development.

  • Softwares Development 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The purpose of this module is to build on the programming fundamentals learned in first year and introduce higher levels of abstraction. In addition, the students will start their journey towards Java Foundations Associate Certification (1Z0-811).

  • Mathematics for Software Design 2.2

    Credits: 5

    This module has the following aims:
    1. To further build on the maths from earlier semesters.
    2. To provide the necessary problem-solving skills for other subjects in year 2 and later.
    3. To use symbolic mathematical software and tutorials to improve the student’s problem-solving skills.

  • Software Development for Global Computing 2

    Credits: 5

    This module looks at localisation and Internationalisation as they relate to the software development process. It examines localisation from a code level to user-interfaces requirements. The best known methods, tools and process used for localisation and Internationalisation will be explored. The challenges of developing complex software solutions as part of a global team will be analysed. The students will be introduced to the basics of the Python programming language and build applications using the PyCharm development environment.

  • Web Development 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The growth in Internet usage has resulted in a corresponding abundance in Web Services and Web Applications. The Web Development 2.2 module provides the knowledge to explain / create various file formats documents used for storing and transmitting configuration data in software application such as those found in Web Services. The module will ensure that the student can validate and parse these file format documents using various methods.
    A key aspect of web services is REST. This module explores the main principles of a RESTfuI Architecture Application with HTTP as its transmission protocol. REST and HTTP is discussed in detail and RESTfuI HTTP programs are developed.

  • Agile Methodologies 2.2

    Credits: 5

    This module provides in-depth coverage of agile Planning, Tracking, and Reporting within Scrum, Extreme Programming, and Kanban. The module also focuses on the concepts of Test-Driven Development and Software Configuration Management / Version Control.

  • German 1.2

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with the practical language and other relevant skills they need to survive when travelling in countries where German is spoken.

  • Software Development 3

    Credits: 5

    This module focuses on the design and implementation of a 3 tier architecture using the Java programming language. It explains the performance implications of selecting a particular programming language. Students are introduced to architectural design patterns which they adopt in order to implement an integrated architecture using Java.

  • Software Engineering 3

    Credits: 5

    This module identifies and critiques alternative approaches to agile methodologies. It examines the concept and use of Software Process Models. It details the role of Architectural Design, Software Quality Management, Software Measurement, Software Process Improvement and Risk Management within Software Engineering.

  • Software Development for Global Computing 3

    Credits: 5

    This module concentrates on the practical skills, tools and methodologies used to implement localisation and Internationalisation solutions for global software development. In particular, this module is focused on Internationalisation techniques using the Python programming language.

  • Web Development 3

    Credits: 5

    This Module will introduce the students to Web Application development. In particular, it will examine the Model View Controller Architecture and how this is used to structure Web Applications.

  • Networks 3

    Credits: 5

    To equip participants with an understanding of the infrastructure of the Internet and the underlying communications networks. To show how communications networks and protocols are evolving.

  • Placement Preparation 3

    Credits: 5

    The purpose of this module is to increase student awareness of graduate and other job opportunities and to enable them develop the tools and skills to secure these roles.

  • Internaitonal Placement for Software Desing 3

    Credits: 5

    In a sector such as software design the global nature of the industry requires an international focus. Therefore, software engineers need to understand the needs and preferences of different cultures and be able to develop software that can be used by people from diverse backgrounds. Through this module students will be exposed to practical work relating to the international Software Engineering industry. Students will also gain an integrated and critical knowledge of the skills and particular technologies widely used in the industry today.

  • Project 4

    Credits: 15

    To act as an integrating module to allow the student to draw on knowledge learned in Years 1, 2, 3 and 4 Modules already completed. To expose the student to the application of Research Methodologies.
    The student will research a particular subject area to obtain a deep understanding of that subject area.
    Using a defined Software Lifecycle, the student will specify, develop, and test a software application relevant to the subject area researched.

  • Networks 4

    Credits: 5

    The growth of the Internet has facilitated a transient approach to how and where we connect to each other and the services of the Internet. The expansion in availability of adaptable, high-performance, ubiquitous mobile devices for computing / connectivity to heterogeneous networks, has encouraged such an approach to work and life. This Networks 4 module aims to equip participants with a good understanding of various Quality of Service (QoS) requirements for applications using the Internet. The module will emphasise the move away from a network centric approach to delivering services to the user-centric approach. It includes how cloud computing can facilitate enhanced service availability while also evaluating the delivery from a networking perspective.

  • Management and Organisational Behaviour 4

    Credits: 5

    The module analyses how self-management and emotional intelligence impact the behaviour of an individual within a team. It also examines the role of reflection and retrospectives. It focuses on developing an understanding of management processes and structures as a prerequisite to a successful career.

  • Data Visualisation 4

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide the student with the tools and techniques to:
    1. Mine, clean and present data using industry standard techniques.
    2. Apply modern computer graphics to data display methodologies.
    3. Understand the relationships between visualisation and human cognitive understanding.

  • Databases 4

    Credits: 5

    To provide students with a solid and practical foundation for the design, implementation and management of database systems. Students will assess transaction management and concurrency in DBMS including distributed databases. Students will assess data storage and retrieval for large data sets.

  • Data Mining and Machine Learning 4

    Credits: 5

    This module will study algorithms and methods used to find patterns in data and perform prediction and forecasting. With the huge growth in both volumes of data and processing power, the opportunities for data mining are growing all the time. The process includes data selection, cleaning, coding, using different statistical and machine learning techniques, and visualisation of the generated structures.
    Special emphasis will be given to the Machine Learning algorithms and methods. The students will use recent Data Mining APIs and software.

  • Security 4

    Credits: 5

    The module will give the students a grounding in Computer Security issues. In particular, it will examine Cryptography and its uses, particularly in distributed applications. Various types of malware and best coding practices for delivering secure software systems are also addressed.

  • Distributed Systems 4

    Credits: 5

    The module is designed to provide the student with a thorough understanding of the issues involved in designing distributed systems and expertise in a range of communication mechanisms needed to develop Distributed Systems.

  • Sevice Oriented Architecture 4

    Credits: 5

    This module covers Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) as an architectural strategy and Web Services as its implementation paradigm. RESTfuI HTTP programming is an intrinsic part of the module. Cloud Computing’s “as-a-service” model and Cloud Computing’s relationship with SOA are described. Lastly, Microservices Architecture and Event Driven Architecture (EDA) are both covered.

  • The Engineer in Society 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to familiarise the students with the diverse business, legal and ethical contexts within which professional engineers apply their engineering skill and expertise.

What can you do after this programme?

According to Irelands Skills Strategy 2025 (Department of Education and Skills) there are skills shortages for professionals and associate professionals across sectors in many areas of ICT. The shortage of ICT talent is potentially significant for a number of sectors where ICT skills are needed, in particular software development. Ireland is likely to face an average increase in demand for high-level ICT skills of around 5% a year with the employment of ICT professionals anticipated to rise to just over 91,000. This skills shortage has become increasingly acute as more and more tech companies expand their operations in Ireland.”

Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programmes within TUS or elsewhere.

Additional Information

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