Course Title: Master of Science in Software Solutions Architecture
Standard admission criteria for admission to this course is a level 8 honours degree in Computing or a related area. Candidates are expected to have at least two years experience in a technology related role. Many software architects grow or develop into their role through experience in their organisation.
For non-standard candidates who have extensive experience in software related roles an RPL/APEL process may be used to assess candidates and advise of admissibility for the programme. In some cases candidates may be advised on prior modules to be taken to help qualify candidates for the programme. Given that the programme commences in January, non-standard candidates are advised to commence discussions prior to the preceding September as the preceding semester can be used to address any lacunae in background.
This online part-time programme to give current and potential Software Architects the skills, theory and recognition they need to develop in their role. For the first time candidates can gain a full Masters of Science degree in this specialist area through a mixed learning process with an emphasis on practical application in the workplace. This course is delivered by a consortium led by TU Dublin (School of Enterprise Computing and Digital Transformation) with the International Association of Software Architects (IASA) and the Irish Computer Society (ICS).
The content was determined in collaboration with Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet based on workshops with leading Technology Ireland Skillnet members such as Cisco, IBM, Ericsson and Fidelity. Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for associate membership of IASA. More experienced Software Architects may wish to apply for professional membership. The programme aims to equip established and aspiring Architects with:
- An informed, common, industry-aligned understanding of their role
- A set of frameworks, approaches and tools for executing Architecture tasks
- A knowledge base of current best Architectural practice and experience
- Ability to Communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders
- The capacity to understand technology initiatives from a broad Business Perspective
- Be equipped to make strategic technical decisions
- Obtain internationally certified and validated academic recognition
Graduates of the course develop knowledge, skills and attributes around human dynamics, business, technology and strategy, IT Architecture, IT Quality Attributes and Environments which will support them in roles as IT Architects. The course also equips them to carry out applied research in topics at the cutting edge in this field.
The programme has seven modules including a major research project as follows:
- IT Architecture Design
- IT Environment
- Business Technology Strategy
- Human Skills for the IT Architect
- IT Architecture Quality Attributes
- IT Architecture in Practice
- Research Methods & Research Project/Dissertation
This course is delivered online two evenings per week. An initial two day session is delivered in person at the start of each year. Some optional additional on campus events may also be held. There are two examinations which are generally held on campus over the period of the programme.
Applicants working for Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet member organisations apply through Technology ICT Ireland Skillnet for a discounted fee.
WINNER of Best Professional Development Award in the 2018 Tech Excellence Awards, this excellent part-time programme gives current and potential Software Architects the skills, theory and recognition they need to develop in their role. edge and experience with real, current, IT Skills and project work.