DUN LAOGHAIRE/EMMET OLIVER: Senior College Dún Laoghaire (SCD) is hoping to tap into the huge interest among students in mobile phones and text messaging with a new telecommunications course.

After research, the City and Guilds, together with a panel of consultants, has developed a new qualification to provide students with skills needed to survive in the telecommunications industry.

The certificate in telecommunications systems is an entry-level qualification, but students can progress to the diploma or advanced diploma over two years. Further certification in the field of convergent technologies is also being offered.

Successful students should be able to get employment within the telecommunications industry at technician level in the fields of manufacture, installation and maintenance of operation. Technicians diagnose faults and carry out repairs.

The college is also offering a graduate diploma in business management and entry is open to all college graduates and to those who have completed two-year business courses at post-Leaving Cert level. It is then possible to progress on to the final year of a business degree at Swansea Institute of Higher Education in Wales.

The college is aware that adult learners are often concerned about their suitability for a particular course, so SCD is inviting anyone interested in a course for a personal consultation over the next few months.

The college's open day takes place tomorrow from 2 to 4 p.m. This will give prospective students the opportunity to discuss courses with current students and staff.