CCT College Dublin has identified entry criteria and processes that will enable it to determine an applicant’s potential to succeed on the proposed programme. The direct entry route to this programme requires applicants to evidence numerate, technical, and analytical ability to a minimum of NFQ level 8 standard.
The following are accepted as appropriate evidence for direct entry:
a. An NFQ level 8 major award in IT (or cognate discipline) with strong programming skills
or
b. An NFQ level 8 major award from a non-cognate discipline with a minimum of 5 years relevant industry experience, and evidencing strong programming skills.
Applications are also welcome from individuals who do not meet the standard entry requirements but wish to apply for entry based on prior learning (RPL) or prior experiential learning (RPEL). The College will thoroughly assess applications received through RPL and RPEL to ensure that candidates are able to evidence learning to an appropriate standard – normally the framework level equivalent to the direct entry qualifications requirement and demonstrate potential to succeed and benefit from the programme. Applications submitted on this basis will be assessed in line with the College RPL policy.
Applications on the basis of experiential learning or informal / non-formal learning must evidence an applicant’s potential to succeed through demonstration of ability to pursue the programme at the applicable NFQ level, in the discipline area concerned, and benefit from the programme of study in question. The ability to produce written summaries, discussions and projects on academic and applied matters will be important.
Evidence may be provided through:
Prior study and qualifications, including CPD, short courses and professional awards as well as NFQ awards
Work experience and achievements
Other experiential learning obtained through volunteering or non-employment experience
Successful completion of an entry assessment set by the College
A combination of the above
For applicants whose first language is not English, English language competency required for entry must be equal to or greater than B2+ in the CEFRL. English language credentials endorsed by other systems (viz. IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, Duolingo etc.) will be assessed to ensure they meet this minimum standard.
This programme is designed for individuals who have previous knowledge in computing, cybersecurity or similar through professional experience and/or educational qualifications. This programme is not suitable for individuals with only basic computer literacy.