
Prospective Students - Your DCU Questions Answered
How many Undergraduate courses does DCU offer?
We currently offer over 70 undergraduate courses at DCU across 5 faculties: Engineering and Computing, Science and Health, Business, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Education. DCU Connected also offers online undergraduate courses.
Please note there are 6 new courses and 4 new specialisms on offer from September 2021.
Will getting a degree from DCU enhance my employment prospects?
DCU was ranked 19th in the world and first in Ireland for its graduate employment rate, according to the 2020 QS Graduate Employability Rankings released.
What is “Loop”?
Loop is DCU's Virtual Learning Environment which complements face-to-face teaching at DCU and provides flexible access to courses, both on- and off-campus. Lecturers can use Loop to direct you to resources such as lecture notes, videoclips, podcasts, online journals, practice quizzes and discussion forums. You can submit assignments online and the online gradebook provides access to coursework grades.
Does DCU have a Sport Scholarship Programme?
A DCU supports the holistic development of talented athletes and recognises their increasing need to balance both academic and sporting commitments successfully. This is achieved through the Sport Scholarship Programme, which supports athletes who have the talent and dedication to combine an academic course with excellence in sport. It is tailored to the individual needs of each athlete. Athletes are allocated a Sport Scholarship at one of three levels – Elite, Talented or Development, and up to a maximum of €2,500 in support services.
Are there support services for students with children?
The on-campus crèche provides a professional day-care service for infants and young children of students and staff of DCU. The fees for 2019 / 2020 are €220 per week / €953 per month for babies and wobblers and €205 per week / €888 per month for Toddlers and Montessori children. Various part-time fees are available for Montessori-aged children (2.5–5 years) Full time students who are using the crèche on a full-time basis may obtain a subsidy from the Student Financial Assistance Fund (Means Tested). The free preschool year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is also available for those eligible to apply. We also offer the CCSU & CCSP schemes.
The crèche opening hours are 8.15 am–6.10 pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8.15 am–5.45 pm on Friday. It is strongly advised to make an early application if you intend to use the crèche.
For further details on Magic Days creche please contact Ciara (manager) Sharon or Natalie (supervisors) at: creche@dcu.ie
What is the purpose of DCU’s INTRA programme?
INTRA is all about opportunity. It’s about experiencing what it’s like to work in a real working environment, teaching you skills you’ll need when you graduate and helping you to make useful business contacts. INTRA gives you a better understanding of the professional, commercial or industrial world and helps you to make realistic career decisions as well as developing your confidence and communications skills.
Does DCU have a special access programme?
Yes. We want as many people as possible to benefit from a third-level education. The Access Service coordinates a range of programmes aimed at increasing participation in higher education by students who, for a variety of financial or social reasons, do not view going to university as a viable or attractive option. Please go to: https://www.dcu.ie/access
How long will my course take and where will I do it?
Most degree courses take four years. There are exceptions with some taking three years, and one that takes five. The length of the course is indicated on the course page https://www.dcu.ie/courses. Many courses include a period of paid work/industrial placement (known as INTRA), typically for six months in the third year.
DCU has 3 academic campuses: St Patricks, Glasnevin and All Hallows. Depending on which course you choose to study, you will be based on one or 2 campuses for your degree. See more about our campuses here.
How is the academic year structured?
There are two semesters in an academic year. Each semester lasts fifteen weeks – twelve teaching weeks followed by two study weeks and then a period for examinations.
Orientation for new first year undergraduate students takes place the week before lectures begin. Registration also takes place and students have the opportunity to meet their lecturers, personal tutors, and other support staff before the lectures begin. You’ll also have the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the campus before the majority of the student body returns to college.
How are the courses structured?
We use a modular framework. Typically you will complete six modules in a semester on an undergraduate course, and twelve in a full year.
Why get involved in clubs and societies?
Clubs and Societies offer excellent opportunities for you to broaden your education base and provide you with valuable life skills. They are the foundation of a student’s active involvement in campus life and getting involved will not only enhance your university experience beyond your studies, but it will also provide you with a lively social life, good friends that last a lifetime, and many memories to treasure!
Can I set up my own club or society?
Absolutely. The Office of Student Life will be delighted to provide information on how to set up a new club or society. Contact siobhan.byrne@dcu.ie for more information
Who can I turn to if I have any problems?
DCU provides personal tutors for all students. These are members of the academic staff who will initially help you manage the transition from school to university. They will also be there to give you support, advice, and guidance throughout your time at DCU. You will meet your personal tutor when you first start at DCU.
We also provide a professional and confidential counselling service to address the many personal and social concerns and difficulties which students can experience from time to time. Issues range from procrastination, loss of motivation/concentration, low self-confidence, family and relationship difficulties, depression, panic attacks, assault, addictions, suicide, etc.
For further details on this counselling service visit www.dcu.ie/students
Can I apply to DCU if I am already studying at a higher level at another institution, but now want to complete/further my studies at DCU?
If you have completed higher education to a certain standard then you may be eligible to apply directly to DCU as a “transfer applicant”. Transfer applications must be received by 1st July. Non-EU candidates must apply directly to DCU. Please note that you may have to pay full fees and that you may not receive the Higher Education Grant. Please check with the Finance Office in DCU (Finance Office website or email: fees@dcu.ie).