School of Computing

Understanding the Course:

The BSc in Problem Solving and Software Development (PSSD), the first of its kind in , is aimed at students who can demonstrate a passion for, and prior ability in, computer programming and ICT.

This new, innovative degree programme is designed to produce more graduates with the skill-sets necessary to fill the ICT skills gap and meet the demands of employers both at home and abroad.

Over half of the programme will comprise significant software development projects (typically carried out in teams as in the real world of software development). The remainder of the degree programme will be a selection of modules which will complement the skills acquired in the large projects.

You will have significant input into the direction your studies take you and you will spend one year on a paid industrial work placement.

Understanding Problem Solving and Software Development

Computers are ubiquitous and now come in many forms: from computers in the cloud to smartphones in our pockets. These computers need software and software needs developers, i.e. computer programmers who either write software to solve existing problems or innovatively create new products, services and apps. Software is developed to solve problems in a large and ever-growing number of contexts from business to climatology; from ICT to health.

Good software developers are always in demand. They are expert computer programmers that love constant challenge and relish new problems to be solved. This degree will produce such expert software developers and problem solvers.

While problem solving underpins software development, the leadership and problem-solving skills you acquire on this degree will be applicable to non-ICT scenarios, facilitating graduates to become active citizens and future shapers.

This degree differs from the School of Computing 's other two undergraduate programmes, Computer Applications and Enterprise Computing, in that it requires demonstrable passion for, and prior experience in, programming and ICT. For those who like the structure and content of this degree, but lack the necessary content to construct a portfolio, we recommend the BSc. in Computer Applications (CA). Students, after one year in the CA programme, may be allowed to transfer to the PSSD programme.

About You:

You will already have an interest in computing and ICT (and you won't be wondering what ICT stands for!). You'll already have written some computer programs, probably have put together a website or webpages on a site, and take an active interest in technology. As a result, putting together a portfolio that demonstrates your computing expertise and interests will be easy for you. Music or fine arts degrees expect students to submit a portfolio to demonstrate prior expertise in those fields; this degree asks for similar. More details on the portfolio can be found at the programme website http://pssd.computing.dcu.ie/.

You will also need to be flexible and adaptable, and will be excited, rather than intimidated, by new problems and challenges. You will have an almost unquenchable thirst for learning, and be prepared to work independently, on your own or as part of a team, when necessary.

Mathematics underpins much of computer science, and is an invaluable tool for programmers and problem solvers. You will therefore need to show that you have ability in maths by attaining at least a C3 in Higher Level Mathematics or an A1 in Ordinary Level Mathematics. The maths requirement emphasises the need for top software developers to have a solid foundation in logic and mathematics.

Apart from the portfolio and the maths requirement you'll just need to meet the general entry requirements for admission to DCU.

Applicants with portfolios of sufficient quality will be called for interview and success at the interview will ensure an offer, subject to the other requirements already mentioned. Mature students may be given unconditional offers.

Course Structure:

PSSD assumes prior experience in programming and ICT, so from the beginning you will work on software development projects as part of a team. These major projects will constitute of 50% of the work required for years 1, 2 and 4.

To complete your education as a software developer, you will spend the remaining 50% of your time in years 1, 2 and 4 studying a wide range of topics in computer science.

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

Year 4 will also have a large project, but you will also choose specialist modules in topics which interest you. At the end of year 4, you will participate in an annual display of students' work that will allow you to showcase your talents to the industrial and business communities and allow potential employers to experience the high standard and broad range of the development work carried out by you on the course. This feature is very popular with industry/business and draws many prospective employers keen to hire DCU graduates - see our webpage for more information (www.computing.dcu.ie/fyp).

What Will I Study

Year One: Project, Problem Solving, Mathematics, Computer Programming, Optional Modules such as Computer Computer Hardware, and Networks and Internets.

Year Two: Team Project, Logic, Maths (Probability, Statistics, Linear Algebra) Data Structures & Algorithms, Assembly Language Programming, Human-Computer Interaction, Optional Modules such as Operating Systems, Databases, Computer Architecture and Assembly Language Programming.

Year Three: 10-12 Month INTRA Placement

Year Four: Team Project and a selection of Computer Science topics, e.g. Compiler Construction, Computability, Complexity, Cryptography, Security Protocols, Distributed Programming, Statistical Machine Translation, Mobile Apps Development, Databases, Quantum Computing.

Furhter details at http://pssd.computing.dcu.ie/structure.php

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

The BSc in Problem Solving and Software Development (PSSD), the first of its kind in Ireland, is aimed at students who can demonstrate a passion for, and prior ability in, computer programming and ICT.

This is a new, innovative degree programme designed to produce more graduates with the skill-sets necessary to fill the ICT skills gap and meet the demands of employers both at home and abroad.

This programme will foster the 21st century skills espoused by DCU's Generation 21 initiative. Over half of the programme will comprise significant software development projects (typically carried out in teams as in the real world of software development) that will develop the much-in-demand skills of independent learning, communication, teamwork, creativity and, of course, problem-solving and software development.The remainder of the degree programme will be a selection of modules which will complement the skills acquired in the large projects.

Students will be mentored closely, particularly in the first two years and a significant number of our industrial partners are keen to jointly mentor the student projects.

You will have significant input into the direction your studies take you and you will spend one year on a paid industrial work placement.

"Problem Solving & Software Development allows students who are passionate about technology to take a new pathway to gaining a qualification in computing. Microsoft are very excited about this new degree programme and see this as an innovative new way for students to gain access to a university education. The content looks at real life scenarios and, working with cutting edge technology, these graduates will be highly sought after."

- Michael Meagher, Academic Engagement Officer, Microsoft.

Career Prospects:

Software development is the core activity of the ICT industry, and good software developers are highly sought after by all major computer companies in all sectors of industry. Graduates can expect to find employment with companies such as Microsoft, Google, Facebook, IBM, Openet and Intel, to name just a few potential employers. PSSD graduates will be 'fluent' in problem solving, software development and general ICT skills, and will be employable worldwide.

After graduation, you can also pursue further studies at masters (M.Sc.) level or research at doctoral (Ph.D.) level either in Ireland or abroad.

If you have an entrepreneurial flair, you will also be encouraged and supported to set up your own company and commercialise your ideas.

All indicators suggest that those entering computing degrees now will have a wealth of job opportunities available to them when they graduate.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants for PSSD are expected to have experience of computers and programming before starting the programme. Therefore, selection for the programme will be based on a portfolio, interview and a suitable grade in Leaving Certificate mathematics.

Leaving Certificate:

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply: A1 in Ordinary Level or C3 in Higher Level Mathematics.

GCE A Level:

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply: GCE A Level D grade or a CGE AS Level B

FETAC Level 5:

There is no entry path

Transfer Applicants

There is no entry path

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:

EU School Leavers: Apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1st February Please note there is no late application date in May for this programme.

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. Download an Application form here.

Making an Application:

Candidates required to apply through the CAO, can apply online at http://www.cao.ie/

Candidates required to apply directly to DCU should download an application form, print, complete and post it to DCU.

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