Software Systems Development

BSc Hons in Software Systems Development

This four-year programme empowers students with a comprehensive understanding of software development, web development, mobile app development, and data science alongside artificial intelligence and security fundamentals. Through specialized coursework, students delve into advanced programming languages and techniques essential for software engineering. They master web development frameworks, crafting dynamic and interactive web applications. Dedicated modules in mobile app development equip students with the skills to create innovative solutions for iOS and Android platforms. Moreover, the curriculum delves into data science methodologies, enabling students to extract insights from complex datasets. Graduates emerge with a versatile skill set, ready to meet the evolving demands of the tech industry.

Why is Software Systems Development important? 

People and businesses such as Google, Facebook and Amazon generate vast amounts of data every day with each person leaving a digital footprint across the web. There is a demand for high quality software developers with multi-disciplinary skills and this programme will produce software developers, who can analyse this data for businesses to give them a competitive advantage, by equipping them with core skills in data science and information systems allied to excellent software development skills.

This programme provides you with the opportunity to become a well-rounded software developer with a background in either sports technology, business, psychology, or a European language.

Elective Streams

In the second year, students have the opportunity to specialize further by selecting an elective stream:

• Sports Technology Stream: The sports technology industry is experiencing rapid growth globally, with Ireland emerging as a hub for innovation in sports-related technologies. Integrating a sports technology stream into our current programme responds to the increasing demand for skilled professionals who can develop software solutions tailored to the sports sector. Sports organizations, from grassroots to professional levels, face various challenges related to performance analysis, athlete monitoring, fan engagement, and injury prevention. A specialized stream in sports technology equips students with the knowledge and tools to tackle these challenges by developing innovative software solutions tailored to the specific needs of the sports industry.
• Business Stream: Students gain knowledge in business principles, project management, and entrepreneurship, complementing technical skills with an understanding of business operations.
• Language Stream: This stream enhances linguistic abilities, fostering cross-cultural communication for international market opportunities where multilingual skills are valued.
• Psychology: Students explore human behaviour and cognition, designing software systems to improve user experience, usability, and psychological well-being.

Subject Areas 

There is a strong focus on programming and website fundamentals to provide you with a solid background for later years. You will be also introduced to software engineering concepts, and fundamental computing concepts using Raspberry PI’s for example.

In years 2, 3, and 4 you will study specialist modules in mobile and web app development, database systems, business analytics, information systems and computer security. 

Unique Features 

Companies in Ireland are seeking software developers who possess multi-disciplinary skills in the areas of Sports Technology, Business, Psychology or Languages. You will have the option to study those areas as elective option from year 2.

The course includes a flexible learning semester in year three. The flexible semester is a non-contact semester and consists of one of the following options:

• Industrial Placement (paid/unpaid) 
• Active Service Learning (voluntary)
• Industry-accredited courses
• Placement in a designated Research environment
• Placement in a Commercial Innovation/Incubation unit
• Study Abroad