Certificate in Emerging Digital Technologies

Designed for Busy Professionals

• 100% Online – Learn from anywhere
• Evening Classes – 2 evenings per week, 2 hours per lecture (18.00 – 20.00)
• 12-Week Duration – One semester programme with 2 modules
• Small Cohorts – Interactive learning environment
• Directed eLearning – Additional self-paced study materials

Time Commitment

• 4 hours live online classes (2 evenings × 2 hours each = 1hr lecture + 1hr tutorial)
• 2 hours self-paced directed eLearning 1 hour per module (videos, reading, tutorial exercises)

Format: Synchronous and asynchronous directed activities using state-of-the-art technologies and teaching techniques to support the virtual classroom.

Flexibility: All sessions are recorded and made available, though attendance is strongly advised as class engagement and group work are key aspects of the programme.

When does it start? Please submit an enquiry form on this page, and you will be added to our notification list for 2026. The course normally runs at the end of September each year; however, should any changes be made, those on the enquiries list will be the first to be notified.

Programme Structure

The course consists of two modules:

• Module 1: Emerging Digital Technologies
• Module 2: Digital Business Transformation

Both modules run concurrently over the 12-week semester, delivered through live online lectures, tutorials, and directed eLearning activities.

Note: The programme content outlined below is newly revised for 2026 and is currently in final QQI approval. It may be updated/amended before commencement.

Module 1: Emerging Digital Technologies

The module aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Next Generation Mobile Networks, Quantum Computing, Internet of Things, Blockchain, FinTech, Robotics and, Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality that can be readily utilised in business contexts.

Topics covered:

• Introduction to Emerging Digital Technologies (EDT)
• Cloud Computing and Data Analytics for Business
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• AI for Business
• Blockchain
• FinTech and Payments
• Robotics and EDT integration
• Next Generation Mobile Networks
• Quantum Computing
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality
• Impact Assessment of Digital Emerging Technologies
• Integration of Emerging Digital Technologies in Business

Module 1 Assessment:

• Individual Project Part 1 (30%): The student will address a specific industry or sector where one or more Emerging Digital Technologies have been applied. The submission will highlight the role that two EDTs have played in the chosen domain and will include a review of key definitions of those technologies and how they were applied.
• Individual Project Part 2 (70%): In the second part of the project, the student will submit a report that assesses the potential future impact of all EDTs covered in the module in industry or sector chosen in part 1. The report must include an evaluation of how the EDTs can be integrated into the sector or industry based on a relevant business framework, highlighting how each of the EDTs could add value to that industry or sector.

Please visit the National College of Ireland course descriptors for a complete breakdown of specific module content.

Module 2: Digital Business Transformation (DBT)

The module focuses on the application of emerging digital technologies to specific business domains to enhance business performance, by identifying core principles, frameworks and tools of digital business transformation practice.

Topics covered:

• Fundamentals of Transformation
• Core Principles of DBT
• Strategic Alignment
• Values in Digital Business
• Project Management and DBT Lifecycle
• Identifying and Managing Key Stakeholders
• Customers Requirements and Experience
• Testing and Validating Prototypes
• Metrics for Assessing DBT Success
• Cultivating the Right Culture
• Scaling DBT Initiatives
• Future of DBT and Ongoing Opportunities

Module 2 Assessment:

• Team-based Project Part 1 (30%): DBT Requirements Analysis and Project Justification. The team will select a company (in consultation with the lecturer) and will make the business case for digital business transformation by identifying the business problems and/or opportunities, justifying how this challenge is aligned to the company’s strategy.
• Team-based Project Part 2 (70%): Full DBT Roadmap. The submission will expand on the Part 1 submission by providing detail on each of the DBT stages in respect to the selected company. The team will ensure that all elements of the DBT continuum are covered, including discovery, definition, ideation, planning, execution, and evaluation.

Please visit the National College of Ireland course descriptors for a complete breakdown of specific module content.

Learners will develop informed awareness of technologies including Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, FinTech, Robotics, immersive technologies and nextgeneration networks.

Emphasis is placed on understanding technological capabilities, limitations, ethical considerations and business integration challenges.

Through applied learning and practical tasks, graduates will be well positioned to contribute meaningfully to digital transformation initiatives across diverse sectors.

Aquire a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge that will enable you to perform various roles and tasks within your industry.

• Utilise core knowledge and understanding of emerging digital technologies and digital business transformation that can be readily utilised in business contexts.
• Generate insights using industry-agnostic frameworks, tools and methodologies for a variety of emerging technologies and make use of this information to solve real world business problems.
• Analyse, design, implement and document a digital business transformation solution that applies emerging digital technologies for a specific business domain case study to enhance the business performance.
• Demonstrate enhanced communication, presentation, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Academic Eligibility

A minimum of a Level 6 qualification on the NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications) is required for standard entry.

For candidates who do not meet this minimum entry requirement, the college operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme whereby applicants may be considered based on relevant work or other experiences.

For applicants whose first language is not English, please note the English language entry requirements.

Programme Fees

Fees for 2026 are to be confirmed.

For reference, 2025 programme fees were as follows:

Full course fee: €1,700
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet grant: €401
Subsidised course fee: €1,299*

Subsidised fees are only available to eligible* applicants.

Please click on the Make an Enquiry button and submit your form to be notified when full programme details are announced for 2026. Those registered will be the first to receive updates and application information.

Public sector employees, non-profits, or charitable organisations that do not meet our funding criteria may apply privately for the full course fee once places are available.

Unemployed? Unfortunately, due to our funding parameters, we are unable to accept unemployed applicants for either funded or private places. However, we encourage you to explore our Future in Tech free and online training and mentoring initiative, which offers upskilling opportunities specifically designed for job seekers. Find out more about Future in Tech. You can also avail of other fully funded courses we offer. Click here to explore our free training hub.

Once you have received your offer of a place on the course, please be aware that we have a limited number of subsidised places available. Due to high demand, we cannot hold places without payment. To ensure fairness, priority for these places will be granted to those who have both completed full payment of the subsidised fee and are deemed eligible by the college or training provider.

Ready to Start Your Digital Transformation Journey?

Simple 4-Step Application Process:

Step 1: Express Your Interest
Use the Make an Enquiry button on this page to express your interest in the programme. Once applications open for 2026, the Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet programme lead will contact you with all the course information, and at that stage you will proceed to step 2. We expect this announcement to be made in Q1/Q2 2026.

Step 2: Eligibility Confirmation
The Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet programme lead will contact you within 3 business days to confirm your funding eligibility and guide you through the next steps.

Step 3: Complete Your Academic Application
Once confirmed as eligible, you’ll be supplied a link to complete your official application with National College of Ireland (NCI), providing them directly with your CV, transcripts and English language results (if required).

Step 4: Secure Your Place
Upon receiving a conditional offer, Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet will provide you with payment information. You’ll complete registration with both Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet and NCI. Successful applicants become official NCI students with access to all college resources and support services.

Important Information:

• Limited Places Available: Start the process today
• Early Application Recommended: Spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis among eligible candidates
• Academic Assessment: NCI conducts the final academic review and makes admission decisions
• Full Support: Our team guides you through every step of the application process

Do you have any questions? Please use the Make an Enquiry form on this page to submit any queries for this programme. We’re here to help make your application as smooth as possible.