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4/2/10 2:19pmProspective Student Information
What is Computer Science?
Few developments in recent times can rival computer technology for pace of its progress, the breath of its application or the degree of its impact on the modern world. Since its inception computer technology has been an indispensable tool in all areas of science and engineering and has by now become a cornerstone a whole range of modern services (financial markets, air transport and telecommunications, to name but three examples). It is fast becoming equally central to many aspects of our personal lives (play stations, Internet, WAP phones etc.).
While experience in the use of various computer-based technologies is becoming increasingly widespread, computer science as an academic discipline is not about mere familiarity with the use of an array of commercial software products (word-processing/spreadsheet packages, Internet browsers, computer games), but studies the various technologies that make these complex systems tick. Computer scientists seek to understand how such systems are constructed, how they might be improved and, above all, how these technologies may be exploited to develop new previously undreamt-of applications for the future.
This requires a deep understanding of both the organization and operation of the physical components (processors, storage devices, networks) that support these applications and the software elements that control these components (operating systems, network protocols, etc.). It involves mastering tools and techniques for the representation, manipulation and communication of the large volumes complex information computer systems have to contend with whether that information be financial, textual, numerical, or as is increasingly the case, in the form of images, audio or video. It requires a thorough grasp of the scientific principles that underpin all these technologies as well as the ability to apply those principles in practice in the construction of high-quality reliable software according to rigorous engineering principles using modern programming languages and methodologies.
Career Prospects for CS Graduates
Ireland ranks as one of the world's leading software exporters and the information and communication (IC) industries are major contributors to the country's current economic prosperity. Embracing both multinational companies (most of the world's leading software companies have a significant involvement here), as well as a vibrant indigenous sector, Ireland's IC industry includes leading global players in the key technological areas of financial and banking applications, electronic commerce, Internet tools and applications, telecommunications and software tools among others.
This industry has been identified as a key priority for the future by Ireland's industrial development agencies and a target of significant investment in education and research as well as enterprise development.
The industry currently employs upwards of 15,000 people, a figure that is expected to grow sharply in the years ahead. There has been virtually full employment among CS graduates in recent years; career prospects for today's graduates are excellent and are likely to remain so for the foreseeable future. In recent years students/graduates have been placed with (among others):
Oracle, Microsoft, IBM, Sun, Intel, Analog, EMC, Compaq, Motorola, Logica, Ericsson, Nortel, Alcatel, AIB, BoI, BUPA, Eircell, Iona, Solomon Bros., Anderson Cons.Many graduates opt to undergo further studies to further enhance their skills. UCC offers specialized masters degrees in computer networks, mobile networking and computing, intelligent systems for business and manufacturing, and in multimedia technology as well as higher degrees by research. Recent government initiatives to invest significant sums in Ireland's research infrastructure should ensure excellent research opportunities for talented CS graduates in the years ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I study computer science?
- Do I need to know anything about computers?
- Everybody seems to be using computers these days without too much trouble what more more is there to study?
- Do I need honours maths in the Leaving Cert?
- Do I need to be good at maths to survive?
- If I don't need great computing or mathematical expertise, what skills/aptitudes would I need?
The CAO handbook lists quite a few of different computing degrees across various colleges and universities; how to these relate to the UCC degree?
Once I've decided to study computer science at UCC are there any options and when would I need to make decisions about these?
How much scope is there for specialization within the UCC computing degree?
Is it possible to combine computer science with another subject?
What sort of work do computer science graduates typically do?
What opportunities are there for further study after graduation?
Why should I study computer science?
The profound impact of computer technology over recent decades on so many key facets of modern life (financial, communications, transportation, entertainment, scientific/medical exploration, and educational) must rank as one of the most significant technological phenomena in modern history. If the opportunity to participate and contribute to this technological enterprise were not reason enough to study computer science, the opportunities for exciting, challenging and well-paid careers that the computer industry offers are an additional inducement. FAQ List
Do I need to know anything about computers?
No prior familiarity with computers is expected. Those with some previous exposure to computers might have some slight initial advantage, but the lack of such experience ought to pose no significant long-term barrier to the conscientious student. FAQ List
Everyone seem to be using computers these days without too much bother what more is there to study?
Computer science as an academic discipline is not concerned with how various software packages are used but rather about understanding the principles and technologies that underpin such systems. FAQ List
Do I need honours maths in the Leaving Cert?
There is no formal requirement for honours Leaving Cert mathematics. FAQ List
Do I need to be good at maths to survive?
While the ability to reason carefully and methodically is a valuable skill in the study of computing, a flair for formal mathematics is not essential. Some computer science requires reasonable grasp of basic mathematics that ought to be accessible to all but the most maths-phobic of students. The limited mathematical background that is required is covered within the degree programme. FAQ List
If I don't need great computing or mathematical expertise, what skills/aptitudes would I need?
A commitment to work conscientiously and consistently is probably the single most important key to the successful completion of a university degree in any area. For computer science, a logical, methodical frame of mind, a fondness for solving problems, an attention to detail and a determined persistence to pursue a task to completion are all invaluable assets. FAQ List
Are there any special requirements?
For admission the only formal requirement is a minimum grade HC3 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at higher or ordinary level in the Leaving Certificate from Irish, English, another language, mathematics and two other subjects recognised for entry purposes. There is no requirement that you should have studied any science subject or honours maths in the Leaving Cert. FAQ List
The intake for varies but is typically between one hundred and one hundred and fifty students. FAQ List
The points are dictated by supply and demand. Once the number of places is decided (150 for 2001), the points level required is determined purely by the points profile of the pool of applicants. In recent years the points level for CK401 were as follows:
2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 300 290 300 380* 410* 405* 400* 415 400* 400 * indicates that not all applicants at this level were offered places. FAQ List
The CAO handbook lists quite a few of different computing degrees across various colleges and universities; how to these relate to the UCC degree?
Different universities use different labels (computer science, computer applications, information technology, software engineering and so on) to describe their computing degree offerings. While these labels may signal differences of emphases and approach between these degrees, all have broadly the same objective: the equip their graduates for a career as information technology professionals. FAQ List
Applications are handled by the CAO in the ordinary way.
A small number of places are reserved annually for mature students. Details of the application procedure for mature students are available from the UCC Mature Student Office.
UCC also accepts applications from overseas students. Such applications handled by the College's Admissions Office. See the Undergraduate Prospectus for details. FAQ List
Once I've decided to study computer science at UCC are there any options and when would I need to make decisions about these?
All computer science students are admitted through CAO code CK401; there is some scope for choice and specialization in later years but no decisions need to be made prior to starting your studies. Indeed all students take the same set of modules in first year (with minor variations for those pursuing a joints honours degree--described below). Generally, your options on this and other matters would be described to you as and when they arise. FAQ List
How much scope is there for specialization within the UCC computing degree?
The bulk of our students pursue a programme devoted entirely to computer science. The degree provides a solid grounding in the fundamental principles and practices of computing technologies. In later years of the our degrees specialized modules are also offered on other topics such as computer networks, computer architecture, information retrieval, distributed systems, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, computer security and multimedia among others.
In addition to these single-honours degrees students may opt to combine computer science with another subject for a joint-honours degree (see below).
FAQ ListIs it possible to combine computer science with another subject?
In addition to the (single honours) programme described above it is also possible to combine computer science with another subject in a joint honours degree. Currently this option is available for economics. Opting for a joint honours degree has implications for the modules studied in first year. See the College Calendar for details. FAQ List
What is involved in the degree?
The degree programme is a four-year, full-time programme leading to the B.Sc. degree. The teaching involves a combination of formal lectures supplemented by tutorials and supervised laboratory practicals. See course description for more details. FAQ List
What are the employment prospects like?
The demand for qualified computer graduates both nationally and internationally is very buoyant; there are more IT job vacancies than there are suitable candidates to fill them. On current trends, the universities will be hard pressed to produce enough graduates to meet projected demand, so this employment and career prospects for graduates are expected to remain excellent. FAQ List
What sort of work do computer science graduates typically do when they graduate?
Forfas's National Software Directorate maintains a useful overview of the IT industry and careers. Some students also opt to pursue further study or research. FAQ List
What opportunities are there for further study after graduation?
Many students opt for further study after graduation. Many universities offer postgraduate diplomas or masters degrees in specialized, in-demand areas. For example, UCC offers masters degrees in areas such as multimedia technology, mobile networks and computing, intelligent systems for business and manufacturing, and computer networks. We also offer higher degrees by research. The recent government commitment of substantial sums to research in information and communication technology under the Foresight programme should imply significant growth over the next few years in the research opportunities available to talented young IT graduates in Ireland. FAQ List
What sort of workload should I expect?
All our undergraduate degrees are full-time courses and require a full-time commitment. The academic workload is measured in credits with 60 credits being a typical annual load. Though details vary from module to module, five credits generally equates to one one-hour lecture per week with an additional two hours per week for a combination of laboratory work, tutorials and private study for the whole academic year. So 60 credits would generally entail a minimum commitment of 36 hours per week throughout the year. FAQ List