DURATION
One year full time.

INTRODUCTION

The growth of distributed computing environments has seen the development of a key position in maintaining corporate ICT networks. The role of the system administrator is a diverse one which includes specific responsibility for the prudent operation and maintenance of networked computers and servers. This entails installing, upgrading and removing software applications from managed systems, co-ordinating and managing web-site content and company databases. Administrators may also be responsible for the routine backing-up of data, as well as long-term planning and management strategies.

MAIN AREAS OF STUDY

• Computer Applications (MS Office)
• Computer Architecture
• Computer Networks
• Systems Administration
• Internet Programming
• Communications
• Web Authoring and Web Site Design
• Image Processing
• Relational Databases

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Candidates seeking entry to this programme should have a good Leaving Certificate and display an aptitude for computing and web design. Ideally, applicants should have good inter-personal and problem-solving skills. All prospective candidates will be interviewed individually and places will be awarded on merit.

WORK EXPERIENCE

All students are expected to participate in mandatory work placement in a relevant industrial or commercial environment.

Career Prospects

There are a variety number of possible job opportunities for students with a solid IT background. Presently, some key areas of employment include:
• Junior Programmer/Software Developer
• Network Administration
• Commercial Web Site Design and Maintenance
• Systems and ICT Support

FURTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Students who successfully complete the programme may apply directly to CIT for a place on the NCEA Certificate in Computing. Limited entry to Diploma or Degree courses at Institute and University level subject to college matriculation requirements also exist.

CERTIFICATION

• National Vocational Certificate FETAC (NCVA) Level 5 in Information Technology Certificate (NCVA Award Code CITXX)

CO-ORDINATOR

- Richard O'Sullivan