Certificate in Emerging Digital Technologies

Designed for Busy Professionals

• 100% Online – Learn from anywhere
• Evening Classes – 2 evenings per week, Tuesday & Thursday, 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
• Assessment – 100% project-based (there are no exams), incorporating case studies and reflective components.

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 below is newly revised for 2026.

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

Click here for detailed module breakdown, including learning outcomes and assessments.

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

Click here for detailed module breakdown, including learning outcomes and assessments.

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 Level 6 qualification on the NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications) is required for standard entry. Not sure what Level 6 means? Visit QQI here.

Applicants who do not hold a Level 6 qualification may be considered under NCI’s Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme, based on relevant work and other experiences.

Applicants whose first language is not English should review NCI’s English language entry requirements prior to applying.

Documents required for your NCI application:

• Current academic transcripts
• Up to date CV
• English language proficiency evidence where applicable

Fees

Full course fee: €1,700
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet grant: €1,400
Subsidised course fee: €300*

Subsidised fees are only available to eligible* applicants.

Funding Eligibility

Applicants must meet both of the following criteria

• Currently reside in the Republic of Ireland
• Currently employed in a private or commercial semi-state organisation registered in the Republic of Ireland

We can only provide part-funded fees to applicants meeting the above criteria.

Applicants who do not meet our funding criteria (e.g., public sector employees, non-profits, charitable organisations or unemployed) may still be able to apply directly and pay the full programme fees. Submit an enquiry and our programme team will be happy to support you to do this. 

Please note that only a limited number of subsidised places are available. Submitting an application does not guarantee a place. Because demand is high, places can only be secured once an offer has been made by NCI and full payment of the reduced fee has been made by you to Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet.

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.

Step 2: Eligibility Confirmation
The Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet programme lead will contact you  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. Successful applicants become official NCI students with access to all college resources and support services. – Please note NCI has a no refund policy once the course commences.

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.