When Michael Allison enrolled on a Level 2 Computing course at South West College (SWC) Enniskillen, he never imagined that just a few years later, he would graduate with a BSc (Hons) Computing Science and be standing at the front of the classroom not as a student, but as a lecturer. Now a full-time member of SWC’s teaching staff, Michael delivers computing courses across the Erne and Dungannon campuses and said: “This pathway has opened doors I never thought possible.”

Michael first discovered his interest in IT while studying for his GCSEs. Wanting to pursue a subject he loved, he joined SWC’s Level 2 Computing course and quickly progressed onto a BTEC Level 3 in IT, which is equivalent to 3 A levels. From there, he moved into higher education, completing an Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing before going on to earn a BSc (Hons) Computing Science top-up with The Open University.

Reflecting on his journey at the College, Michael said:

“The teaching at SWC is second to none. It’s not like being in a university lecture hall with hundreds of students. The smaller class sizes meant I got more face-to-face time with tutors, which really helped me develop my skills and confidence.”

Michael chose to study higher education at SWC not only because of the strong computing provision, but also because it allowed him to remain close to home.

Michael said: “For me, staying local was a big advantage. The Foundation Degree and top-up were far more affordable than going away to university, and I didn’t have to pay for student accommodation. It made higher education accessible without the burden of extra costs.”

After completing his degree, Michael had a number of options open to him from roles in cybersecurity and software development to data analysis and IT support. But it was teaching that truly appealed and so, Michael registered on SWC’s Part-Time Lecturer Register and began teaching a few hours a week.

Michael said: “After a year of part-time teaching, I applied for a full-time position when it came up and now, I’m thrilled to be part of the teaching team. I get to support students on the same path I took, and that’s incredibly rewarding. If you’re passionate about computing, SWC is the perfect place to start.”

The IT and Computing Pathway at SWC offers progression from Level 2 through to Level 6, preparing students for a wide range of exciting careers in the digital and tech industries. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to education to retrain, SWC’s courses are designed to be flexible, affordable and aligned with real-world industry needs.

From Student to Lecturer | Michael’s Journey Through South West College:

Computing and ICT courses:

CISCO Introduction to Greenhouse Gas Accounting for IT

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is a self-paced online course. Expand your IT sustainability skills and dig into the environmental impacts of technology. Introduction to Greenhouse Gas Accounting for IT is an entry-level course designed for IT professionals and learners interested in sustainability within the tech sector. This hands-on course guides you through the complete greenhouse gas (...

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Cisco Digital Safety and Security Awareness

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is a self-paced online course. Are you ready to take control of your online safety? As the digital world evolves, it offers incredible opportunities but also presents unique challenges. Building on the foundational knowledge from the Digital Awareness course, this beginner-friendly Digital Safety and Security Awareness course equips you with practical s...

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Cisco Introduction to Modern AI

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is a self-paced online course. AI chatbots are revolutionising the way we work and learn. Millions of people worldwide use them to simplify tasks like homework and ideating, writing, editing and even career advice. If you are new to AI and ready to give it a try, look no further! Introduction to Modern AI is a beginner-friendly course designed to help y...

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Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is a self-paced online course.

This introductory course takes you inside the world of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity professionals who can protect and defend an organization’s network are in high demand.

You will achieve a digital badge.

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Level 2 Traineeship in IT

Dungannon Omagh Apprenticeships Computing and ICT Level 2 Full-Time

This traineeship is aimed at learners interested in following a career path in IT/Computing who have achieved less than four GCSEs at Grade C . This course provides a practical, work related introduction to Computing and IT. Learners will also be able to develop and enhance their employability skills through this traineeship.

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BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top-Up) (Validated by The Open University) (HLA) (HLA Approval Pending)

Dungannon Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 6 Part-Time

This BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top Up) programme aims to produce high quality, professional graduates equipped with the relevant competencies to pursue various roles across many computing disciplines and meet the demands of the computing industry. South West College is approved by The Open University as an appropriate organisation to offer higher education programmes leading to O...

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Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing (HLA)

Dungannon Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 5 Part-Time

This course is designed around the computing requirements of local industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, understanding and design skills to formulate solutions to computing problems and the practical skills to implement those solutions. Additionally, ‘soft’ skills will be developed in teamwork, communications, professional practice and time management. This course is offere...

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Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing

Dungannon Enniskillen Omagh Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 5 Full-Time Part-Time

This course is designed around the computing requirements of local industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, understanding and design skills to formulate solutions to computing problems and the practical skills to implement those solutions.

Additionally, ‘soft’ skills will be developed in teamwork, communications, professional practice and time management.

View Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Information Technology (RQF) (Equivalent to 3 A-Levels)

Dungannon Enniskillen Omagh Further Education Computing and ICT Level 3 Full-Time

This course is a specialist, work-related qualification in Computing.

It is a 2 year taught course consisting of 13 units, which is equivalent to 3 A Levels.

Units are assessed either internally (9) or externally (4) and are both practical and theory based. This course will be taught through lectures, demonstrations, workshops and group work.

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Cisco IT Essentials - PC Hardware And Software

Dungannon Further Education Computing and ICT Level 2 Part-Time

This course provides an excellent introduction to the IT industry and interactive exposure to personal computers, hardware, and operating systems. Students participate in hands-on activities and lab-based learning to become familiar with various hardware and software components and discover best practice in maintenance and safety. In addition, PC Hardware and Software covers the followi...

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BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top-Up) (Validated by The Open University)

Dungannon Enniskillen Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 6 Full-Time Part-Time

This BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top Up) programme aims to produce high quality, professional graduates equipped with the relevant competencies to pursue various roles across many computing disciplines and meet the demands of the computing industry. South West College is approved by The Open University as an appropriate organisation to offer higher education programmes leading to Open ...

View BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top-Up) (Validated by The Open University)