Below is the report on IT Sligo which was carried in the 2013 Sunday Times University Guide. Once again the Institute is highlighted for our strong links with industry and the high employment levels of our graduates.
From its picturesque but remote setting, the Institute of Technology, Sligo has forged a reputation over its 42 – year history as one of the most innovative third level colleges.
As well as a conventional degree course offering, the institute delivers 26 online programmes to 800 students worldwide. Among its web-based customers are multinational companies such as Coca-Cola and Abbott Laboratories.
With such good links, graduates enjoy the republic’s fourth best employment rate at 94%, although unemployment has risen a little from 4% in last year’s results.
With 80% of first-years living in- the highest percentage in Ireland – there is a strong community spirit on campus. This must feed into the low dropout rate, in third place again in our league table at 11%. This is all the more impressive considering Sligo has award winning schemes to attract disadvantaged groups into third level education.
The Institute plays a leading role in trying to develop the northwest’s economy. Research funding fell to €1m to €4.5m, but this is still one of the better institutes of technology results and 13th overall. Sligo joined the Citrix academy network in February, enabling students to gain industry certification in emerging areas such as cloud computing.
Performance
- Sunday Times Ranking: 14 (16)
- Research income: €4.5m
- Median points for entry: 334
- (210 – 345)
- Unemployment: 6%
- Firsts and 2:1s: 51%
- Student/staff ratio: 15.8:1
- Dropout rate: 11%
Vital Statistics
- Undergraduates: 3770 (439)
- Postgraduates: 85 (48)
- Teaching staff: 269
- Mature students: 28.3%
- Overseas students: 0.9%
- Non-standard entry: 14%
- Sports facilities: ***
Private Rents
€65 a week
Student View
Kevin O’ Grady, student’s union president:
First Impressions: A great community atmosphere
Worst feature: Building work means some disruption
Facilities: Great campus sports facilities. A three storey library. No campus bar, but loads nearby.
Deal Clincher: Very strong industry relationships help get your foot on the ladder.
