Understanding the Course:

The computer revolution has only just begun

Understanding Computer Applications
Computing technology is all around us in our everyday life, from the mobile phone that wakes us in the morning to the GPS system in the car to the networking website we post photos on, and it is in use for everything from booking concert tickets to securing your college place. As intelligent, innovative and forward-thinking people continue to develop technology, it can help us solve problems in a great range of applications (i.e. traffic circulation, climate modelling, study of diseases, systems engineering, business modelling, ecology). As well as learning how computers work, you will get an understanding of the technology behind things like computer games, mobile phones, the Internet and many other computing-based products that surround us.

The School of Computing's B.Sc. in Computer Applications is Ireland's most popular computing degree. Its specialism in software engineering produces graduates who are in great demand by industries globally.

This degree prepares you for a professional career in computing and information technology. It gives you an in-depth knowledge of software engineering, information systems and the practical skills to apply this knowledge. Such knowledge is highly sought after by employers.

About You:

Funded by the Irish Government and part-financed by the European Union under the National Development Plan, 2007-2011.

About You
Whether you're interested in computer games or robotics, mobile phones or electronic commerce, this course will appeal to anyone who is inquisitive and sees the potential of computers in our society. You may have been interested in computing for a while but perhaps don't know anything about programming - previous knowledge is not required: we'll teach you everything you need to know!

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university (http://www.dcu.ie/registry/entry.shtml#leaving) the following entry requirements apply: C3 in Ordinary Level or D3 in Higher Level Mathematics. Students are also expected to attain a minimum points score of 300.

Course Structure:

Course Structure
The first year is devoted to gaining a strong competence in computer programming, and to acquiring essential mathematical skills.

In subsequent years specialism in software engineering will equip you with the necessary skills to create software and to invent new ways of using it. Examples include web browsers (e.g. Internet Explorer, Firefox), computer games, financial accounts packages, and the software inside mobile phones. There is a strong emphasis on practical work and working as part of a team.

In Year 3 you will have the opportunity to spend six months on paid work placement. The INTRA programme integrates academic study with closely related jobs. It will give you an understanding of the professional and practical business world and will help you to stand out in the graduate employment market.

You will complete major projects in both Years 3 and 4. These projects provide an opportunity for you to put into practice the software development techniques studied in class. An annual display of the final year students' work will allow you to showcase your talents to the industrial and business communities. It also allows potential employers to experience the high standard and broad range of the development work carried out by you on the course. This is very popular with industry and draws many prospective employers keen to hire DCU students on graduation - see the webpage for more information: www.computing.dcu.ie/fyp

What will I study?

Year 1
Core Introductory Hardware and Software Modules, Including Networks, Web Design and Programming

Year 2
Information Systems or Software Engineering Specialisations

Year 3
Intermediate Specialist Topics
3rd Year Project
INTRA Work Placement Programme

Year 4
Advanced Specialist Topics
4th Year Project

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

International Students
Non-native English speakers may be eligible to apply to the International Foundation Certificate (IFC) course, which will help you to achieve the English language requirements necessary for entry to this course as well as preparing you for adjustment to university learning in the Irish context. See pages here http://www.dcu.ie/prospective/deginfo.php?classname=IFC&mode=full&originating_school=40 for full details of the IFC course.

What Our Students Say
"There is a great support system in place for students, so although the course is challenging at times, there's always help at hand."

Aisling Devlin, Computer Applications student

What Our Graduates Say
"The CA degree's great range of subject material gives you the opportunity to diversify into almost any field. Its strong practical focus has given me the necessary skills to build a successful career in the games industry."
Kevin Boland, Programmer, Electronic Arts.

What Employers Say
"13 out of our 16 programmers are graduates of the School of Computing at DCU. We have found them to be on the leading edge of programming technology and to be outstanding employees."
Group CEO, e-Spatial Solutions.

Career Prospects:

A Future Career
With computing technology playing a growing role in every sector, all indicators suggest that students entering today's computing degrees will have a wealth of job opportunities when they graduate.

Software engineers typically find work in computing and electronics companies such as Microsoft, Intel, IBM, Iona, and many specialised software companies. Some graduates choose to start their own businesses.

A list of potential employers includes AIB, Accenture, BEA Systems, Compaq, Enterprise Ireland, IBM, Intel, Irish Life, Microsoft, O2, RTÉ, Sun Microsystems and Xilinx, to name but a few.

You can also pursue further studies in areas such as Electronic Commerce, Bioinformatics, Security and Forensic Computing, Business Informatics or Software Engineering, all of which lead to successful careers in research.

This course is also suitable for those who ultimately wish to pursue a career in teaching as it is recognised by the Teaching Council. The School of Computing has prepared a DVD, IT4U, which describes the range of employment opportunities available and gives students a real insight into what it is like to study computing at third-level. To obtain a copy of this DVD contact the School Secretary.

Additional Information
For more detailed information on the courses available in the School of Computing, please visit:
www.computing.dcu.ie/prospective/

Contact Details

For any further queries, please contact:

School Secretary
School of Computing
Tel: +353 (0) 1 700 8980

Entry Requirements:

Leaving Certificate
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

C3 in Ordinary Level or D3 in Higher Level Mathematics. Students are also expected to attain a minimum points score of 300

GCE A Level
In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

GCE A-Level D or GCE AS-Level C or GCSE C in Mathematics. Students are also expected to attain a minimum points score of 300

FETAC Level 5
There is no entry path

Transfer Applications

International Applications
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. Visit the webpages of the International Office for further information on international applications

How to Apply and Closing Dates

Full list of degrees >

Fee information