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?
- Are there any special requirements?
- How many places are there?
- How many points will 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?
- How do I apply?
- 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 is involved?
- What sort of workload should I expect?
- What are the employment prospects like?
- 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, 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:
| 2011 | 2010 | 2009 |
|---|---|---|
| 330 | 315 | 300 |
* 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 specialisation 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 specialised 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. 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 buoyant. FAQ List
What sort of work do computer science graduates typically do when they graduate?
A wide variety of career options are available to Computer Science graduates. Please click here to view a sample listing. 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
