New level 6 certificate programme includes Skillnet-funding of up to 80% of tuition fee to eligible candidates
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) has announced details of a brand-new part-time QQI Level 6 certificate programme in ‘Fundamentals of Blockchain’ launching in September 2021.
The level 6 accredited course is a joint collaboration between DkIT’s Department of Computing Science and Mathematics, the Dundalk Chamber Skillnet and industry representation. An overview of this course can be seen via www.dkit.ie/parttime.
The new one-year programme is open to individuals from a variety of sectors seeking to improve their knowledge of blockchain. It consists of two modules delivered one-night per week over two semesters; In semester one “Blockchain Essentials” details the fundamentals of the technology with semester two; “Blockchain based Distributed Applications and Smart Contracts” outlines how the technology can be applied.
The programme has a significant applied focus with case studies and guest contributors a focus of the key learning activity.
Working with many stakeholders, the course development included input from the IDA and Enterprise Ireland, The Fintech Corridor Initiative (industry representative group funded by Intertrade Ireland) and companies such as PayPal and Gecko Governance.
Aidan Browne, Head of Business Development and Innovation at DkIT said: “In today’s challenging business environment, emerging technologies have the potential to provide the foundation for game-changing solutions for industry. We are delighted to launch this collaborative programme with Dundalk Chamber Skillnet with the support of state agencies Enterprise Ireland and the IDA and industry in the content development. Together with our partners we have a shared understanding and vision of growing of our region’s enterprise sector that is dependent on the progression of industry upskilling and knowledge advancement in emerging technologies and innovation. This programme is an excellent example of strong collaboration in action.”
Dr. Fiona Lawless, Head of Department of Computing Science and Mathematics at DkIT added:
“This new certificate forms a cornerstone of the suite of innovative programmes being developed by the Department of Computing Science and Mathematics at DkIT, in response to industry needs. The programme will play an important role in introducing the fundamentals and the application potential of blockchain technology and can be wide reaching in supporting upskilling across sectors such as fintech, engineering, food, transportation, logistics and supply chain management where blockchain is seen as a potentially disruptive technology and its application has the potential to revolutionise those industries.”
To be eligible for subsidised training by Skillnet, applicants must be employed and resident in the Republic of Ireland. Further details on funding and application process can be found at https://www.dundalkskillnet.ie/ or bycontacting Aidan Callan at aidan.callan@dundalkskillnet.ie
