NCI Course Details

Who is the course for?

This programme will appeal to computer science or engineering graduates, ICT industry practitioners, system administrators and those with an interest in gaining practical experience in cloud computing.

As a graduate of this course, you will be able to:

• Conduct independent research and analysis in the field of cloud computing
• Formulate and implement a novel research idea using the latest industry practices
• Demonstrate expert knowledge of application development, systems programming, parallel and distributed computing and the tools, techniques and technologies of cloud computing utilised in both technical and business contexts
• Critically, assess, evaluate and communicate business and technical strategies for cloud computing
• Develop and implement effective business and technical solutions for cloud computing
• Critically asses and evaluate security, privacy and ethical issues associated with the storage, transfer and processing of data on private and public cloud infrastructures

Award and Progression

The Master of Science in Cloud Computing is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. Students who successfully complete this course may progress to a major award at level 10 on the NFQ. Students may also elect to exit early with the Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Cloud Computing at level 9 on the NFQ.

According to a recent Higher Education Outcomes Report released by the CSO, ICT graduates receive the highest weekly earnings five years after graduating compared to other sectors based on the analysis of the destinations of students who graduated between 2010 and 2016.

Course Assessment

This programme will be assessed with a blend of project work and exams. This varies between modules but typically assessment is 50% continuous assessment and 50% exam.

Course Content

For information on the modules taught on this course view our module descriptors.

Entry Requirements

An honours (level 8) primary degree in a computing discipline with a 2.2 award or higher. Students in their final year of undergraduate study can be admitted on the condition that their degrees are awarded before they enrol at NCI.  

The college operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme meaning applicants who do not meet the normal academic requirements may be considered based on relevant work and other experience. This may be assessed using a portfolio of learning, demonstration of work produced, and an interview.

Non-English speaking applicants must demonstrate fluency in English evidenced by an IELTS academic score of at least 6.0 or equivalent.

Laptop Requirements

NCI is prepared to adhere to Government directives for course delivery in September 2021. Investments have been made in technology for online learning, as well as campus enhancements if face-to-face classes are permissible.

This programme has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. Specifically, students are expected to successfully participate in lectures, laboratories and projects using a portable computer (laptop/notebook) with a substantial hardware configuration. The minimal suitable configuration is 8GB of RAM (16GB are recommended); a modern 64-bit x86 multi-core processor (Intel i5 or superior); 250+ GB of available space in hard disk; WiFi card; and a recent version of Ubuntu, macOS or Windows. 

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure their computer is functioning correctly and that they have full administrator rights. NCI IT cannot provide support for these personal devices.

Duration

This course runs over 1 year; 2 semesters and a final research project.

Indicative Schedule

Students need to be available 09.00 - 18.00 Mon – Fri (class days and times vary).

Please note that exams can be scheduled during the morning, afternoon or evening Monday to Saturday.

Course Fee

€6,500 total fee
(Fees revised annually)

You can spread the cost of this course with a direct debit plan.

International Students' Fees

The fee for this course for international students is €15,000.

Find out more about studying at NCI as an international student.