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In Northern Ireland, various IT qualifications are available to help businesses upskill their workforce. These range from globally recognised certifications to nationally recognised qualifications, catering to different levels of expertise and roles.

Global standards and IT certifications

Choosing the right qualification will ensure your employees are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in the digital workplace.

International Certification of Digital Literacy (ICDL)

ICDL is a for basic to advanced digital skills. It covers areas like word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and online collaboration. The certification is accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS). Training and testing in Northern Ireland are available through .

CompTIA certifications

CompTIA stands for Computing Technology Industry Association and offers a range of vendor-neutral, industry-recognised certifications for different levels of IT knowledge. The core certifications are ideal for employees looking for broad IT skills for job roles in IT 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ, networking or cyber security. .

Microsoft certifications

Microsoft offers certifications for IT professionals at fundamental, role-based, and specialist level. They help validate skills and expertise in working with Microsoft technologies across a range of categories, including infrastructure, data and artificial intelligence, digital apps, modern work, business applications and security. Free learning resources are available through . Courses are delivered through a network of official learning partners, further education colleges and private IT training providers.

Cisco certifications

Cisco certifications are widespread in the IT and networking industry. They validate skills related to network administration, security, design and related IT fields, with a structured path that allows individuals to progress from entry-level to expert level-certifications. Training can be instructor-led or self-paced, online or in-person, through further education colleges, private training providers and global learning partners. .

It is important to note that many certifications, particularly those from global providers, require recertification after a certain period.

Sector-specific qualifications

Specialised IT qualifications are designed to meet the unique needs of specific sectors or industries. For example, qualifications are available in areas such as:

• accounting software training – for finance roles
• CAD certifications – in architecture, engineering and product design

As industries adopt emerging technologies, qualifications are increasingly expanding into new areas. For example:

• artificial intelligence and machine learning training
• cloud computing certifications
• digital marketing tools and platforms accreditations

These credentials can ensure staff are familiar with the latest industry tools and technologies, and can apply them effectively in their roles.

National qualifications

National qualifications provide recognised standards of learning and skills development, helping individuals gain the knowledge and expertise needed for various roles in the workplace. They are typically delivered by further education colleges, community organisations, and training providers.

Essential Skills IT qualification

These qualifications help employees develop essential digital skills at Level 1 and Level 2. They cover basic tasks like using devices, online communication, and staying safe online. In Northern Ireland, .

Level 2 and 3 IT qualifications

These qualifications offer more advanced skills in areas like IT user skills, systems 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ, and software development. They are designed for employees wanting to progress to more technical roles. .

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) in IT

NVQs are work-based and focus on practical skills in IT 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ, web development, and network administration. These are available at Level 2 to Level 4. Your staff can study them at work, at college or as part of an apprenticeship. .

There are various government-funded schemes and local initiatives in Northern Ireland to 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ IT skills development, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. If you’re looking for training subsidies, check our Business Support Finder for funding options.