BSc (Hons) in Cloud Computing

The Department of Computing at Cork Instititute of Technology has developed a one year add-on honours Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing degree that aims to develop students both technically and personally and produce broad based graduates of high academic and practical standards to match the needs of both the Irish and international IT industry. This unique programme was developed in conjunction with leading experts from EMC, VMware, Cisco, SpringSource, Microsoft, RSA and other key cloud computing companies.

An emphasis is placed on cloud computing throughout this programme and this focus is supported by the addition of modules in networking, virtualisation, storage, security, application development, data mining and individual multidisciplinary projects. This combination of modules along with practical and laboratory workshops provides graduates with an ideal education that will enable them to seek entry to a wide variety of roles and levels of responsibility within the workforce.

If you wish to apply for the BSc(Hons) in Cloud Computing programme an application form is available here. This form will need to be completed and returned along with an up to date CV. The course code is CR_KCLDC_8, please read the FAQ bef ore making an application. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday August 5th 2011. The total cost of the programme (3 semester part-time mode) is €9600. The fee per semester is €3200, €3200 x 3 = €9600.

Please note that this programme will be delivered part-time over 18 months which is equivalent to three semesters. The full-time equivalent is designed to be delivered on campus over a 12 month period which is equivalent to two semesters. The full-time mode is not currently being offered.

An outline of each module is given below and the full programme descriptor containing learning outcomes, indicative content, assessment methods, etc. can be viewed here.

Data Centre Virtualisation (M)

The Data Centre Virtualisation module explores the role of virtualisation in IT enterprises, in the consolidation of modern data centres and in the evolution of cloud computing. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Converged Networks (M)

In the Converged Networks module students learn about the standards and technologies used to carry voice, video and data in a converged network. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Cloud Architectures (M)

The Cloud Architectures module gives students the skills and knowledge to understand how cloud computing crchitecture can enable transformation, business development and agility in an organisation. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Cloud Application Development (M)

The Cloud Application Development module introduces students to the cloud application development life-cycle used when developing cloud applications. By the end of the module the student will be able to build and deploy web and cloud-based applications. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Network Security (M)

The Network Security module will explore many aspects of network security, including firewalls, VPNs, and IDS systems. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Enterprise Storage Systems (M)

The Enterprise Storage Systems module provides a comprehensive introduction to storage technology in an increasingly complex IT environment. It builds a strong understanding of underlying storage technologies and prepares you to learn advanced concepts and technologies. The module focuses on architectures, features and benefits of Intelligent Storage Systems; networked storage technologies such as FC-SAN, NAS and IP-SAN; long-term archiving solutions, the increasingly critical area of information security and the emerging field of storage virtualization technologies. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Data Mining (M)

Since the 1970s, organisations have mostly focused their investment in new computer systems that automate business processes. In this way, organisations gained competitive advantage through systems that offered more efficient and cost-effective services to the customer. Throughout this period, organisations accumulated growing amounts of data stored in their operational databases. However, in recent times, where such systems are commonplace, organisations are focusing on ways to use operational data to support decision-making, as a means of regaining competitive advantage. The Data Mining module is designed to cover fundamental aspects of the data mining process namely: data gathering and storage, data selection and preparation and exploratory data analysis. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Project Research Phase (M)

The Project Research Phase module is the first of two complementary modules designed to support student project work. Beginning with an approved outline brief, typically a project title and outline objectives, the learner develops the knowledge, know-how and skills, and competences required to successfully research, develop, scope the project and present an implementation plan. This module requires the learner to develop research, problem analysis and project planning skills. The learner is expected to work autonomously under direction of a project supervisor and to communicate the process and outcomes of their work in a style and manner appropriate for professional practioners in their discipline.This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Project Implementation Phase (M)

The Project Implementation Phase module is the second of two complementary modules designed to support student project work.  This module develops within the learner the knowledge, know-how and skills, and competences required to successfully complete a project in accordance with an approved plan. The module requires the learner to develop, implement and critically assess a detailed methodology to address a defined problem within a prescribed timeframe. The learner is expected to work autonomously under direction of a project supervisor and to communicate the process and outcomes of their work in a style and manner appropriate for professional practioners in the discipline. This is a mandatory (M) 5 credit (ECTS) module.

Electives (E)

Students will take two elective modules from the range of modules offered by Cork Institute of Technology. The Department of Computing will offer two new cloud based modules for selection by students. Work is currently in progress and the details of these new modules will be announced shortly. These elective (E) modules also carry 5 (ECTS) credits per module.