Options is a leading managed services and IT infrastructure products provider to the global capital markets community. Founded in 1993, the company began life as a hedge fund technology services provider. Today over 200 firms globally leverage the Options platform, including the leading global investment banks, hedge funds and exchanges. We currently employ over 400 employees worldwide and are continuing to grow across offices in New York, Chicago, Belfast, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Why Options?
Global travel:
We have offices in New York, Toronto, London, Belfast, Dublin and across Asia.
Continuous career development opportunities:
We provide professional skills development and technical training
The chance to be a part of a self-sufficient, successful team:
The Options team operates in a fast paced environment with endless opportunities for innovation and forward thinking.
Competitive salary:
In addition to a competitive salary, Options reward employees with a range of bonus incentives and benefits.
Working for us
The positions will be based around apprenticeship requirements, per your course, paid and based in Belfast initially, although there will be opportunities to gain experience from company offices such as New York, Hong Kong, Singapore, Auckland and London for those who have successfully completed their apprenticeship.
We welcome applications from a broad range of disciplines including those with technical and engineering backgrounds, as well as science, business, mathematics, marketing and finance. We have a fresh new team expanding in our Belfast office and we want to hear from candidates that are motivated, self-driven and have a passion to learn and develop their skills in the world of financial technology.
At Options we are focused on creating a learning environment that enables you to develop and flourish in all aspects of your work. You own your career, you choose your own path, and we provide the opportunities to make it happen.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Strong research, writing and communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced and changeable working environment.
Customer service experience (comfortable working with senior management and business owners).
Exceptional organisational skills and strong attention to detail.
Desire to travel and see the world.
Ability to work independently and manage your own projects in a professional manner.
Solid competency in the following: Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
Candidates must successfully secure a position at the relevant apprenticeship training provider
Desirable Criteria
Previous start-up, technology or business experience.
A passion for start-ups, innovation and financial technology.
Strong interpersonal skills with client facing experience.
Project management skills and proven ability to manage own workload.
(In the case of applications for technical positions, examples of previous work are encouraged.)
All applicants MUST be willing to travel, pending availability during studies.
Applicable courses
Computing SystemsUlster University
Description
Design your own degree pathway and progress part-time at a pace that best suits you, completing in 3, 4, 5 or 6 years.
Computing Systems develops skills in subjects that include programming, databases, networking, web development, human computer interaction, artificial intelligence and systems security alongside subjects that develop your software engineering skillset. When you finish, you will be ready for a professional career in computing, equipped with the technical and personal skills sought by industry, able to apply best practice in software engineering to develop wide ranging systems for any organisation.
The course content is now fully aligned with our FT Computing Science provision (albeit running across 3 semesters) with some classes now shared between cohorts.
Uniquely, BSc Computing Systems is designed using the Variable Rate Progression (VRP) model. VRP empowers you to design your own personal pathway through the modules of the course, something that is not possible in traditional courses. The precise pathway, its duration and specific modules, are determined by you. Many potential pathways exist. A pathway 'Simulator' for experimenting and planning your route through the course is available on our VRP website at: http://www.vrpassistant.com.
Using VRP, the programme may be completed part-time in 3, 4, 5 or 6 years, dependent upon the precise pathway you derive over the course of your studies. Note that should you choose to enter the course in February, rather than September, the minimum duration of the course will be four years.
Ulster University is a recognised Training Provider for the DfE Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) scheme. BSc (Hons) Computing Systems operates a successful HLA programme, working with participating companies that include Kainos, AllState, Deloitte, LibertyIT, Neueda, Etain and GCD Technologies. Applicants interested in HLA opportunities in the subject of Computing, should contact participating companies directly. Companies interested in offering computing related HLA opportunities should contact the Computing Systems Course Director for further information.
Attendance
Computing Systems is usually delivered on a Monday morning from 10:15am during Semesters 1 and 2 (September-May). There are also 6 days of block training per selected module during Semester 3 (schedule for the end of June and beginning of August). Typical weekly timetabled hours involve 3.5 hours per selected module, scheduled for delivery between 1.15PM and 9.15PM. This contact time accounts for around 1/4 of the expected self-directed study time for each module.
The duration of the degree is dependent on the number of modules you study and successfully completed each year. There are six modules at each of three levels in the course. Each year, you can choose undertake a minimum of three modules and a maximum of six modules. This choice aim to enhance flexibility and empowers you to complete the course in as little as three years or to choose a slower track lasting four, five or even six years. You will have an annual opportunity to review and adjust your rate of progress.
Company Partnerships
As of October 2023, Ulster University's partnerships on the course now exceed 25 companies and have over 150 active apprentices on the course. New partnerships should reach out to the Course Director for an onboarding call to ensure that enrolments and paperwork are completed in sufficient time for course delivery. Please note that arrangements are provisional until the DfE confirm funding for the numbers we request.
Modules
Year two
Introduction to Databases
Year: 2
Database management is a fundamental skill expected of Computing graduates. This module will introduce students to the fundamental concepts of database design, implementation, querying and management of relational database systems.
Client Side Development
Year: 2
This module will assume no prior experience in creating web pages and will introduce the design principles, structural elements and technical concepts that underpin web authoring.
Application of the technical concepts will be facilitated through the use of web authoring tools in practical sessions to enhance the technical skills for the creation and styling of interactive Websites.
Mathematics for Computer Scientists
Year: 2
This module provides an introduction to core areas of mathematics that are commonly used by computer scientists. The relationship between set theory and propositional logic is explained, with applications to digital circuits. Mathematics for decision making is introduced, including their practical application. Probability, descriptive statistics and matrices are introduced, and their application to simple linear regression is used to motivate their use within data science.
Introduction to Physical Computing
Year: 2
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the underlying systems that support the applications software. The theoretical concepts covered are illustrated by considering their practical application in modern real-world solutions.
Problem Solving for Computing
Year: 2
Computer programming is a fundamental skill expected of computing graduates. This module will introduce students to the foundational concepts of programming via Python that will be used as building blocks in future modules. Students will also develop and enhance their problem solving skills as an integral part of the module.
Innovation and Society
Year: 2
This module is designed to make future computing professionals have the practical skills to cocreate innovative technological solutions to a problem using design thinking tools and processes and be aware of and take into consideration the nature of the legal, ethical, social and professional issues raised during any technological innovation.
Year four
Computer Networking
Year: 4
Computer networks are at the core of relatively large and modern computing systems. This module aims to equip learners with the appropriate skills to appreciate, understand and employ the key technologies used by interconnected devices in any networks. The module introduces the students to the basics of the networking field including components, topologies, architectures, functions, services, protocols, and standardisation.
Systems Security
Year: 4
This module introduces fundamental concepts related to computer system security. It presents a thorough discussion of the fundamental principles and technologies underpinning the field, covering concepts, terminology, cryptography, vulnerabilities, protocols and good security-oriented design.
The module provides an understanding of computing systems security concerns and how they can be addressed and mitigated so that security considerations are taken into account, and embedded in organisations and IT projects planning and management. This includes the communications within networked applications, security issues and cryptographic fundamentals
Programming in Practice
Year: 4
The module builds upon the expertise acquired in Level 4 programming modules by expanding upon the students' understanding of data types and algorithms within the scope of object-oriented programming. The module focuses on providing students with practical skills for industry-focused software development.
Server Side Development
Year: 4
This module will expand on students' knowledge necessary for developing software systems to be deployed over the World Wide Web, with a specific focus on server-side technologies and techniques. Students will also be introduced to important design considerations for web applications currently in use in industry.
Software Product and Process Management
Year: 4
The Software Product and Process Management module provides the opportunity for students to gain a sound theoretical understanding of contemporary product and process management techniques. There is also the opportunity to apply learning from within the module and from modules undertaken thus far while working cohesively and professionally as part of a software team towards the successful management and planning of software product that meets business needs.
Artificial Intelligence
Year: 4
This module introduces students to key areas of AI including searching, knowledge and reasoning, uncertainty and decision making. It equips students with understanding of the mathematical foundations of these topics and the practical skills needed to apply them.
Edge and Embedded Intelligence
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module explores the intersection between machine learning and embedded systems. The aim of Edge and Embedded Intelligence is to make Artificial Intelligence available on low-powered and computationally constrained devices such as microcontrollers. This module provides a foundation for students to understand this emerging field.
Year six
Full-Stack Strategies and Development
Year: 6
This module will introduce the key concepts of full-stack development and the tools used to implement a full-stack strategy. Students will be able to use what they learn from this module to develop robust software including APIs, database architectures and front-end applications according to industry standards.
Computing Project
Year: 6
The Computing Project provides an opportunity to draw together learning from across the course, and to allow students to evidence their mastery of the academic content and of its application through professional practice. Through the opportunity to devise, manage and evaluate all aspects of work in addressing a significant challenge, students can gain independence and a deeper appreciation of their practice within the broader subject area and of its relationship to wider society.
Cloud Native Development
Year: 6
This module aims to explore a range of modern development and deployment concepts in the context of scalable and high performance computing services.
Within this module concepts such as cloud architectures, hosted technologies, scalable solutions and infrastructure will be explored. Additionally, advanced programming/development concepts facilitating high performance solution development will be examined.
Enterprise Networks
Year: 6
This module is optional
The module provides the student with a deep understanding of the underlying communication protocols of personal, local area networks, wide area networks and inter-networks. The emphasis is on network planning, design and management. Issues such as acceptable network performance, detection of faults, maintaining security and effective management are studied as these are key to the successful operation of businesses. The module will address state of the art protocols and network case studies and can provide (i) an up to date viewpoint of Enterprise Networks for business and (ii) an opportunity for fostering research ideas in this discipline.
Artificial Intelligence
Year: 6
This module is optional
The AI module is built on the foundations in mathematics, computing and programming. It covers logic based symbolic AI, knowledge representation and reasoning, introduction to machine learning paradigms and advanced learning methods of reinforcement and deep learning, and real-world applications in different human-AI interactions. The module will answer the following three questions: (1) how to formulate AI problems conceptually; (2) how to turn the conceptual formulations into algorithms; (3) how to develop AI-focused applications. The module will also consider societal and theoretical concerns raised while designing and deploying AI solutions regarding the ability of people to understand, interpret, control, and interact with AI-based systems.
Computer Vision
Year: 6
This module is optional
Computer Vision is an increasingly pervasive element of technology-based solutions in a range of applications, both standalone and distributed over the Internet, requiring an understanding of image and video processing fundamentals and how they are integrated with Machine Learning. This module seeks to develop the student's knowledge of Computer Vision by introducing techniques and tools that enable machines with a capacity to sense the world using visual data. The module also provides opportunities for the student to learn how to develop applications to solve Computer Vision tasks and to implement solutions using Computer Vision and Machine Learning software tools and libraries.
Embedded Systems
Year: 6
This module is optional
This module introduces students to the software development strategies which underpin the realisation of embedded systems. Students will be required to create functional embedded system solutions, be creative in how they can be deployed across a range of application domains and appreciate the requirements of working within constrained environments
A Levels with: BTEC Level 3 QCF Subsidiary Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Extended Certificate; BTEC Level 3 QCF 90-credit Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Foundation Diploma; BTEC Level 3 QCF Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Diploma.
OCR/Cambridge Technical Combinations A levels with OCR Nationals and OCR Cambridge Technicals.
Irish Leaving Certificate
96 UCAS Tariff Points to include a minimum of 4 subjects at Higher Level and 1 subject at Ordinary Level. The overall profile must also include English and Maths at Grade H6 or above (HL) or Grade O4 or above (OL).
Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency
View tariff point chart
Scottish Highers
Grades CCCCC. All subject areas considered.
Scottish Advanced Highers
Grades DDD. All subject areas considered.
International Baccalaureate
Overall profile of 24 points to include 12 at Higher Level to inlcude grade 4 in Mathematics and Grade 4 in English Language.
Access to Higher Education (HE)
Overall profile of 55% (120 credit Access) (NI Access Course) to include a pass in NICATS Maths (level 2) or GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4.
Overall profile of 45 Merits (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course) to include GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4.
GCSE
GCSE (or equivalent) profile to include minimum of Grade C or 4 or above in Mathematics and Grade C or 4 in English Language.
Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
HNC Pass HNC with overall Merit in a relevant subject area for year 1 entry only to include distinctions in 45 Level 4 credits to include GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4.
HND Year 1 Pass HND in any subject area. GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or an alternative Mathematics qualification acceptable to the University is also required.
HND Year 2 Pass HND rwith overall Merit in a relevant subject area. To include GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4. HND applications may be considered for year 2 entry where the curriculum sufficiently matches that of Ulster University full time year 1 course.
Ulster Foundation Degree Pass in Foundation Degree with an overall mark of 40% and minimum 40% in all taught level 5 modules. To inlcude GCSE Maths at Grade C or 4. Applicants will normally be considered for entry to an associated Honours degree (normally Year 2 entry if FD in a relevant subject area).
Exemptions and transferability
Transfers are processed in accordance with the Faculty Admissions Policy for dealing with transfer requests from existing students.
Duration
3
Start Date
Thursday 12 September 2024
End Date
Sunday 27 June 2027
Progression Pathway
ComputingSouth Eastern Regional College
Description
You will complete a Foundation Degree in Computing along with work related qualifications over a three-year period. The Foundation Degree in Computing aims to develop industry current skills to ensure that the future needs of the IT sector are fully met.
This programme is based on a hybrid learning model with a focus on face-to-face delivery.
Modules
MANDATORY MODULES
Year 1:
Introduction to Programming
Computer Systems
Personal Qualities in the IT Industry
Introduction to Databases with SQL
Year 2:
Computational Mathematics
Network Technology
Object-oriented Programming
Mobile Application Development
Year 3:
User Centered Design
Web Technologies
Work-based learning (40 credits)
This course may grant you privileges as an Associate student of Ulster University and you may have access to a number of University services and facilities, including membership to the Ulster University sports centre and access to physical and online library materials. To find out more visit UU Associate Student
Assessment:
Students are assessed using a range of different methods. These include examinations, coursework, project based learning, presentations, practical assessments and class tests. This is dependent on the requirements of each module of study. Both oral and written feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.
Award
Foundation Degree
Validated By
Ulster University
Eligibility
18+ Fully Funded
Entry Criteria
General Entry Requirements
The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme.
Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.
You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.
Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.
GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements
• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
AND
• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
AND
• 2 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
Course Entry Requirements
A minimum of 64 UCAS Tariff points including:
• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile CC
OR
• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in with overall award profile MPP
OR
• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma with overall award profile MM
OR
• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall and 45% in level 2 Access Mathematics.
OR
• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
Admissions
Successful completion of the Admissions Process.
Accreditation of Prior Learning
Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.
International Students
English Language Requirements International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:
• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
The course provides the opportunity to undertake employment within the computing industry whilst completing the Foundation Degree in Computing. This will enable you to gain industry experience at the same time as completing your academic qualification.
You will learn transferrable skills such as communication, organisational skills, problem solving and critical thinking which will help you to apply to relevant jobs within the computing industry. The programme is designed to facilitate your development of a range of graduate qualities that are highly valued in the workplace. Throughout the course, industry standard software and equipment is utilised with a focus on the core industrial skills required for the computing industry.
Computing (Science in Computing)South West College
Description
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.
Modules
Computer Technologies;
Computing Mathematics;
Programming in Python and Java;
Programming Mobile Applications for Android;
Database Systems Design and Application;
Software Systems;
Interactive Web Authoring;
Computer Networks and Work-based Learning.
The Work-based learning requires learners to complete an industrial placement of 400 hours.
Dungannon (Options Available)
Year 2 Semester 1 Network Database Management Systems or Software Testing and Administration
Year 2 Semester 2 Programming Mobile Devices or Emerging Technologies
Omagh (Compulsory Modules May Change Each Year)
Year 2 Semester 1 Software Testing and Administration
Year 2 Semester 2 Emerging Technologies
Enniskillen (Compulsory Modules May Change Each Year)
Year 2 Semester 1 Network Database Management Systems and
Year 2 Semester 2 Programming Mobile Applications
Award
Foundation Degree
Validated By
Ulster University
Eligibility
18+ Fully Funded
Entry Criteria
A minimum of 64 (CC) UCAS tariff points for Full-time, 56 (CD) UCAS tariff points for part-time, with passes in 4 different subjects including grade C/4 or above for GCSE English and Maths. Entry is also subject to successful interview.
International students (for whom English is not their first language), must demonstrate their competence in written and spoken English at IELTS – Academic 6.0, with minimum 5.5 in all four elements of the test. Trinity ISE - Pass at Level 3 also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Where an applicant does not hold the formal academic requirements for entry to the programme, but can demonstrate relevant experiential learning across a range of industries, they may apply for admission through the College Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) process. In such cases, contact the Course Director for the programme who will advise further.
In the event of over-subscription entry criteria may be enhanced. Refer to general entry requirements.
To be eligible to commence study on the HLA pathway, applicants must have secured full-time paid employment in a computing-related position.
Duration
3
Start Date
Saturday 21 September 2024
End Date
Sunday 27 June 2027
Progression Pathway
The articulation routes for successful graduates from the South West College Foundation Degree in Science in Computing includes but depends on the overall grade achieved: ·
BSc Hons Computing Technologies at Ulster University, Belfast Campus (FT)
BSc Hons Computing Science at Ulster University, Belfast Campus (FT)
A Higher Level Apprenticeship is a work-based programme which helps you to learn while you earn, and gain a recognised qualification. Working with your employer for four days per week, you attend college one day per week, and undertake a Foundation Degree in Computing, that is validated by Ulster University.
Across three years, you will undertake modules in programming, using databases, web and mobile app development, and much more. As well as developing your technical skills, other specialist modules underpin your professional development, giving you the personal skills that you need to succeed in the Computing industries.
This course is specifically aimed either at new employees who want to start work before undertaking a full-time degree course, or at existing IT employees whose roles are changing significantly. The qualification articulates into Ulster University's Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science and Software Engineering, for apprentices who wish to further progress their learning.
Given the demand for IT personnel across all sectors of the economy, Higher Level Apprenticeships provide an excellent pathway for people who want to gain a higher qualification, without running up the levels of debt associated with attending university full-time.
Modules
This course was revalidated by Ulster University in 2019. Modules include:
Year 1
Programming Fundamentals (Python)
Web Development
Database Design and Development
Object-Oriented Programming (Java)
Year 2
Mathematics for Computing
Computer Technologies
Cyber Security
Event Driven Programming
Year 3
IOT Development
Cloud Computing
Work-Based Learning
Special Features
To facilitate students learning in their own time, students are entitled to free Microsoft software for use at home via our Microsoft Imagine programme. This includes Software Development, Web Development, the latest Microsoft Operating Systems and Microsoft Office. HLA students will also have free access to LinkedIn Learning courses.
Additionally, students will also work towards Professional Qualifications from the Microsoft Office Specialist programme and optionally may undertake Microsoft Technology Associate Certification.
Assessment Methods
The modules are assessed with a challenging blend of examinations and coursework. The course provides a fantastic opportunity to enter the exciting and well-paid IT industry, both locally and worldwide.
Many assessments in the course are structured on real-life industry scenarios that students will face in their future careers. There are opportunities to meet software professionals, regular industrial visits and guest speakers. An additional module to enhance your employability is also be included as part of the programme. This programme of study is likely to include enrichment components which are aimed at enhancing your employability.
Course Update
Please note from September 2025, all Ballymena courses are planned to move to the new Ballymena campus at Farm Lodge.
Award
Foundation Degree
Validated By
Ulster University
Eligibility
18+ Fully Funded
Entry Criteria
Candidates must:
Be at least 18 years on or before 1 July in the year you start your course and must satisfy the general entry requirements.
Achieved GCSE Maths grade C or above, plus English grade C or above (or Essential Skills in English at Level 2), plus Level 3 qualifications that are equivalent to 56 UCAS points or above.
Be a new employee in, or about to take up a permanent remunerative employment offer, or an existing employee moving to a new job role that requires a substantial amount of learning and skills development commensurate to the apprenticeship pathway. An exception may be made if an individual is already on an apprenticeship pathway at a lower level, with the HLA providing a progression route without the need to move to a new job role. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure this criteria is met.
Be employed by a company with a permanent base in Northern Ireland, have a contract of employment in place, be contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes day release/off-the-job directed training) with one employer, and in receipt of the appropriate wage.
Have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector.
Pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector.
Be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland. NOTE: you may start your employment up to a maximum of 6 months prior to the commencement of your off-the-job training. The College will require a copy of your contract of employment and a wage slip to provide evidence that you are employed.
Third country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss Nationals and their family members, are eligible to undertake a HLA provided they have a right to live and work in the UK. See HLA page for further details.
Where mature students wish to have prior education and/or experience taken into account, in lieu of meeting the full course entry requirements, they should contact the relevant Course Director or Admissions by 12th August, as an application deadline will apply. It is at the College's discretion to consider APEL enquiries after the dates stated.
Duration
3
Start Date
Thursday 12 September 2024
End Date
Sunday 27 June 2027
Progression Pathway
Upon successful completion of the Higher Level Apprenticeship, you may be able to continue your studies by working towards a BSc Degree in Computer Science and Software Engineering or progress into more senior roles with your employer.
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