WIT to offer free ICT conversion course targeted at job seekers

11 Feb 2013

A new graduate course in computing is set to start at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) in March, with the aim of equipping job seekers with ICT and software development skills.

According to WIT, the purpose of this course is to re-skill honours graduates from non-computing disciplines so they can work in the programming and software development industry in Ireland.

The course will start in mid-March and there will be a maximum of 32 places.

The free course is being funded by the Department of Education and Skills and the Higher Education Authority as part of the ICT skills programme to address Ireland’s skills gap in the area.

Students will complete a programme of core computer science modules over two semesters. They will then have the opportunity to apply these skills and get practical experience through a work placement during the third semester.

Computer science lecturer Eamonn de Leaster will be course leader. He is also the co-founder of the Telecommunications Software Systems Group at WIT.

He said WIT had combined its experience in research and teaching and close collaboration with the software industry in the Waterford region to devise the course.

“The programme includes an innovative approach to developing key software development skills, a unique summer school element and a six-month industry placement,” said de Leaster.

Successful applicants will receive a fee waiver for the course worth €7,500.

WIT will be holding an information evening on its main campus on Tuesday, 19 February, so people can learn more about the new conversion course.

Laptop image via Shutterstock

Carmel Doyle
By Carmel Doyle

Carmel Doyle was a long-time reporter with Silicon Republic. She reported on clean tech, innovation and start-ups, covering everything from renewable energy to electric vehicles, the smart grid, nanotech, space exploration, university spin-outs and technology transfer.

Loading now, one moment please! Loading