Understanding the Course:

The sciences are driving development in the Irish economy and will continue to do so. Accordingly, job prospects for science graduates are excellent. Biology, Chemistry and Physics are fascinating subjects and especially rewarding if you have a 'feel' for them. The Common Entry route allows you to sample the three sciences in first year, so you can decide which you enjoy most and which you are best at before choosing the subject area you want to pursue.

About You:

If you like science, have an analytical mind and a competency in mathematics, but are unsure about which area of the sciences you wish to pursue, then Common Entry is the obvious choice.

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the University (see How to Apply section), the following entry requirements apply: OC3 or HD3 in Mathematics PLUS Grade OC3 or HD3 in one of physics, chemistry, biology, physics with chemistry, agricultural science.

Course Structure:

The course covers an introduction to Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. At the end of the first year of Common Entry, you choose one of the following degree courses to pursue:

• Analytical Science (DC161) (www.dcu.ie/DC161)
• Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (DC162) (www.dcu.ie/DC162)
• Environmental Science and Health (DC166) (www.dcu.ie/DC166)
• Physics with Astronomy (DC167) (www.dcu.ie/DC167)
• Applied Physics (DC171) (www.dcu.ie/DC171)
• Physics with Biomedical Sciences (DC173) (www.dcu.ie/DC173)
• Biotechnology (DC181) (a limited number of places available) (www.dcu.ie/DC181)
• Horticulture (DC170) (a limited number of places available) (www.dcu.ie/DC170)
• Genetics and Cell Biology (DC168) (a limited number of places available) (www.dcu.ie/DC168)

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

• Opportunity to study five science and technology subjects at first year level.
• IT and computing skills emphasised.
• Excellent laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Emphasis on both fundamental and technological applications in all sciences.

International Students

Non-native English speakers who do not meet the English language requirements may be eligible to apply to the International Foundation Certificate (IFC) course. This course will help you to achieve the English language requirements necessary for entry to this course, It will also help you to adjust to the culture of Irish university learning. See www.dcu.ie/IFC for full details of the IFC course.

Career Prospects:

We have graduates in all the major industries in Ireland, including the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry, environmental monitoring and waste management and engineering. Many of our graduates also choose to focus on research and development.

Entry Requirements:

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. For further information on international applications click here.

How to Apply and Closing Dates

EU School Leavers/FETAC Level 5
Apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1st February or 1st May

EU Mature Applicants
Apply through the CAO by 1st February

All Non-EU Candidates
Candidates should apply directly to DCU. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis up to the 1st July. All non-EU candidates are advised to apply early as places are limited.

Make an Application
Candidates required to apply through the CAO can apply online at www.cao.ie
Candidates required to apply directly to DCU can download, print and complete a direct application form by clicking here

Full list of degrees >

Fee information