Computing Ríomhaireacht

The Higher Certificate in Computing (TU652) gives you a solid foundation in computer science, software development and digital technologies that are central to modern careers in tech. Through hands-on learning in software development, web and mobile apps, databases, networking, cyber security and system design, you will build practical skills that employers seek now and into the future. Core modules include programming, discrete mathematics, statistics and professional development, while project work and teamwork prepare you for real industry challenges and help you build a portfolio of work to show future employers.

This programme emphasises adaptability and problem solving, equipping you to understand and use emerging technologies, including concepts relevant to artificial intelligence, data analytics and cloud computing. You’ll learn how computing underpins innovation across sectors such as fintech, games, health tech, e-commerce and cybersecurity, giving you confidence that your qualification is future-proof and future-ready.

Students benefit from collaborative learning environments, industry partnership projects and opportunities to choose specialist streams after Year 1, so you can align your studies with your strengths and interests. With the option of a six-month workplace placement when progressing to a Level 7 bachelor degree, you gain valuable experience and industry contacts that boost your employability.

On completion of this programme, graduates go on to roles such as junior software developer, web developer, network engineer, IT support analyst, cyber security technician and systems analyst, with clear pathways to further study at Levels 7 and 8 for advanced computing and technology careers.

Work Placement

If you choose to progress on to the add-on Bachelor's degree (Level 7), a six month work placement forms part of the course.

Leaving Certificate Requirements

QQI/FET Requirements

In addition to the QQI minimum entry requirements, QQI quotas and QQI points apply. The max QQI points awarded is 390. Further details at TU Dublin QQI FET Applicants.

Mature Applicants

Applications from mature students (23+) are welcome. Further details at TU Dublin Mature Applicants.

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as detailed on our website.

Click on the link below to view an indicative timetable for this course. Timetables are subject to change and up to date timetables will be provided to students on commencement.

View Sample Timetable

Graduate Job Titles:
Graduates have obtained roles as Web Developers, Junior Software Developers, Data Centre Technicians, Network Engineers, Technical Support Analysts, IT Technicians, SysOps Technicians.

Irish/EU Applicants

Applications from all Irish/EU citizens are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Note: Applicants presenting with the Irish Leaving Certificate or a QQI FET award, regardless of nationality, should apply through the CAO.

The standard closing date to apply is February 1st. Late applications will close on May 1st. For restricted courses, the closing date is February 1st. Please see important dates on the CAO website. For a detailed guide on how to apply, please visit our CAO Hub.

International Students (Non-EU) 

Applications from international students are welcome for this programme. If you meet any of the following criteria, applications should be made directly to TU Dublin via the “Apply Now – Non-EU” link on each programme webpage.

• You hold Non-EU Nationality, and you live in a Non-EU country.
• You hold EU Nationality, but you have not lived in an EU country for 3 of the last 5 years AND you have not attended 5 years primary/secondary education in an EU country.
• You require a Student Visa to study in Ireland

Note: Applicants presenting with the Irish Leaving Certificate or a QQI FET award, regardless of nationality, should apply through the CAO.

For full details on How to Apply, Visa & Immigration Information, Accommodation Information and International Fees, please visit our International Hub.

Application Dates for Non-EU Applicants

Applications for undergraduate courses commencing September 2026 are now open and will close in June 2026.

Advanced Entry applications are accepted to this course. For further information on how to make an Advanced Entry application, please visit our CAO Hub. A full list of courses open for Advanced Entry are listed on the CAO website.

To qualify for Advanced Entry applicants must be currently studying, completing, or have successfully completed, studies at Level 6, 7 or 8 in a Higher Education Institution (HEI) or an equivalent, in a related area. You must demonstrate by providing transcripts of results that you have achieved the learning outcomes for each stage you wish to advance past, for example:

• To enter Year 2 via Advanced Entry, you must demonstrate that you have met the learning outcomes for Year 1.

If English is not your first language you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as detailed on our website.

On completion of your Higher Certificate, you can continue into a choice of three specialisations;

• Software Development / IT Management / Cloud Computing or
• Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

You may progress to either Bachelor's degree (Level 7) or Honours Bachelor's degree (Level 8).