The BSc (Hons) in Computing aims to develop the student’s knowledge of the theory and practice of modern computing necessary for them to secure employment and perform as ICT practitioners in a broad range of commercial, industrial and public sector environments. Graduates will have a clear understanding of the practical, theoretical and professional foundations of computing science. The programme enables and supports students to develop critical analytical skills and to develop skills in applying theoretical concepts to the practice of computing.

The BSc (Hons) in Computing has been prepared in line with current developments within the ICT sector and is informed by consultation with employers. A key feature of the proposed programme is its enhanced focus on employability. The programme incorporates a mandatory 10 month work placement, which is included to ensure graduates of the programme will have the required practical application of the programme content to ensure a smooth transition into the workplace and further progression within the workplace.   The programme incorporates specific employability modules that aim to enhance the graduate’s employability by developing key transferable skills in the area of communication and leadership.

The BSc (Hons) in Computing responds to a known and often articulated skills shortage that exists in the ICT sector.   The Irish Government and Industry recognise that there is an urgent requirement to ensure an adequate supply of ICT talent and skills from both the domestic and international markets to meet needs. The central growth scenario forecast is for ICT professional demand to increase to 91,000 by 2018 (5% compound growth per annum). It is estimated that there will be approximately 44,500 potential job openings for ICT professionals in the period 2014-2018. It is recognised that there are current and medium term recruitment difficulties in relation to ICT related honours programmes. This is just in Ireland, the forecast skills shortages across Europe have been estimated as high as 264,000 by 2015.

Aims & Objectives

On completion of this programme, students should be able to:

• Work effectively in ICT environments within organisations

• Understand the theoretical and practical applications in the major areas of Computing

• Enable the student to contextualise his/her studies by affording the opportunity of a work placement in an ICT role

• Demonstrate presentation and reporting skills in addition to personal and career development, facilitating preparation for work and postgraduate study

• Demonstrate experience in the research, formulation, implementation and evaluation of a problem and its solution

• Display competence in dealing knowledgeably with general computing issues and develop effective solutions

• Demonstrate a high level of competence in using a wide range of IT hardware and software tools to an industry level standard

• Display and use transferable, real world skills in a variety of business contexts

• Develop and evaluate the effectiveness of computer applications as solutions to business problems

• Proceed to postgraduate study with specialist skills based on their programme of study