Computer Programming (Taster Course)
Course Overview
Become proficient in the concepts of programming and problem solving.
This module teaches the learner how to design high-quality programs in a systematic way.
This course focuses on the development of professional skills; while it does not sit on the national framework, the module is drawn from Griffith College’s suite of QQI-validated degree programmes.
Why Study Computer Programming at Griffith College?
The Computer Programming course is conducted on a part-time evening basis over a 24-week period. This module introduces the learners to the main principles of programming with all relevant concepts and techniques explained and exemplified in the clearest, simplest language.
- You will learn to design, develop, test and debug software applications using core programming concepts.
- You will learn to precisely specify the syntax and semantics of a programming language and implement basic algorithms and data structures.
- You will learn to accurately document the design of a program on-the-fly and determine the basic efficiency of an algorithm.
- Evening class schedule allows you to balance your study with your work/life commitments.
- Option to further your studies in this area by pursuing our BSc (Hons) in Computing course.
Intake Dates
We run one intake for this course, commencing as follows:
- Autumn: September*
*subject to sufficient numbers
Please see the timetable section for course dates.
Course Details
Year One Core Subjects
- How do you complete a task?
- Identifying sub-components on larger task
- Defining order of subcomponents
- Creation of algorithms
- Stepwise design of programs
- Expressions and statements
- Basic arithmatic
- Comments
- Variables and assignment (Integers, doubles, booleans, characters)
- Boolean expressions and logic
- Condtional statements
- Iteration statements
- User input
- Output
- String manipulation
- Sub-routines (Parameters, Signature, Procedures, Copy rule.)
- Arrays
- 2D arrays
- Text File I/O
- Binary File I/O
- Records
- Simple sorting algorithms (selection sort, bubble sort, insertion sort)
- Binary search
- Developing a good coding style
- Using comments effectively
- Naming conventions
- Indentation
- Code structure
Timetables
This course will commence in September 2024
Year 2024 - Semester 1, September 2024 to December 2024
Year 2025 - Semester 2, February 2025 to May 2025
Timetables will be made available closer to the course start date. Please contact professionalacademy@griffith.ie.
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
Mature Students
If you are 23 years or over from the 1st January of this year, you can apply for this course directly using the College’s online application form.
Under 23 Years
Old Leaving Cert (Pre 2017)
Two Honours Level, Grade C3s or above and four Ordinary Level D3s (subjects to include Maths and a language, English, Irish or another language) or equivalent exam taken.
New Leaving Cert
2 H5 and 4 O6/H7 grades, to include Maths and a language (English, Irish or another language).
English Language
If English is not your native language, you must show that your English level is of a suitable standard. For further information please contact a member of the Admissions Team.
Griffith College is now accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. Please see here for further details.
How to Apply
Directly to Griffith College Professional Academy.
Fees
Please note that not all study modes may be offered at all times; for confirmation, refer to the Intake dates on the Overview tab.
Annual Fees
Study Mode: Part-Time
Fee: EUR 845.00
Progression
What further study can I do?
Graduates of the Computer Programming may progress onto our BSc (Hons) in Computing Science course.
