Tertiary degree · Level 8 · Computing

BSc (Honours) in Networks and System Administration starting in Dundrum, Dublin

A new four-year degree in IT networks and systems, built as two years in a Dublin College campus then two at TU Dublin. It suits problem-solvers who like technology and how computer systems work.

How tertiary degrees work: you apply directly to the further education college, not through the CAO, and you don't need CAO points. You start in the further education college and then move on to the university or technological university to finish the full degree. Applications usually open early in the year; 2026 closing dates ranged from March to May.

Key facts

How long
4 years (2 years at Dublin College, 2 years at TU Dublin Grangegorman)
Award
BSc (Honours) in Networks and System Administration (TU Dublin)
Where you study
  • Years 1–2: Dublin College Dundrum, Dublin 14 (one day a week at TU Dublin Grangegorman in Year 2) → Years 3–4: TU Dublin, Grangegorman

Entry requirements

  • Leaving Cert with five subjects at O6/H7, or four at O6 plus LCVP Distinction
  • Or Leaving Cert Applied with Distinction
  • Or QQI Level 4 award with Distinction
  • Screening interview required
  • Mature applicants (23 by 1 January) welcome and may be interviewed
  • English: B2 (CEFR) if not first language and not educated in English

How to apply

2027 application link not yet published – check the NTO page. Apply directly to the college, not through the CAO. Apply directly to Dublin College (DDLETB), not through the CAO,.

Official page on nto.hea.ie ↗

What you'll learn

  • Networking, operating systems and virtualisation
  • Programming in C and Python
  • Network security and ethical hacking
  • Cloud and edge computing, IoT and software defined networking
  • Embedded work experience and a final-year project

Where it can lead

  • Computer networking
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cloud technologies
  • Enterprise IT infrastructure management

Useful Leaving Cert subjects

Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Technology

These help with the content of the programme; they are not entry requirements unless listed above.

This degree is also offered starting in

Apprenticeships in ICT

Not sure which route suits you?

Our CAO Interest Test matches you to course areas, and now shows apprenticeships and tertiary degrees in your strongest areas too.

Take the CAO Interest Test → Try the free 3-minute test

Information from the National Tertiary Office (nto.ie), checked November 2026. Details can change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.