Course Summary
This degree builds a core foundation in key computing disciplines in Year 1. The degree emphasises practical laboratory experience for students in areas such as Programming, Networking and Database Administration.
The subjects studied in Year 1 include core computing modules in Programming, Web Design, Operating Systems, Mathematics, Database Management and Personal Development.
All our Computing degrees have a common first year. Students study a wide range of computing modules to give them an understanding of all aspects of computing and the flexibility to change direction in Year 2 if desired.
Year 2 focuses on developing the knowledge, skills and competence in core areas of Programming, Database Development, Mathematics and Software Analysis and Design, whilst allowing the flexibility to specialise in elective choices.
In Year 3 the core computing modules include; Business Application Development, Work Experience and a group project and elective choices in Software Project Management, Software Quality and Testing, Web Programming, Networking Switch & Wireless and Database Administration.
The final year includes a supervised project and core modules in IT Management and Entrepreneurship and elective choices in Cloud Application Development, Mobile Architecture & Design and Virtualisation Management.
This is an extremely hands on degree with lots of time spent in computer labs creating programs and solving problems. The aim is to teach students how to use industry standard tools and techniques and then explain the concepts behind them. Creativity, problem solving, persistence and critical thinking are key skills which are developed during the degree. New high-tech computer teaching labs will open at ATU Sligo in 2023 and give students access to the latest advancements in technology.
Our team of lecturers have students as their number one priority. Small class sizes and a hands-on approach means that help and guidance is available when needed.
The degree particularly encourages critical thinking skills in students and this aspect of education ensures ongoing professional career and lifelong learning development. This skills profile will equip graduates for key roles in industry, and research and development. Numerous government reports have indicated that in order for the “Knowledge Economy” to develop in Ireland a critical requirement is the education of computing graduates with key sectoral skills. By joining this degree students become part of this “Knowledge Based Economy” driving competiveness and excellence in a revitalised Irish economy.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
A degree in Computing allows students to complete a wide variety of computing modules in Year 1 and gives them a choice of modules in Years 2. Students may also choose to specialise in another discipline as mentioned above, due to the common first year.
YEAR 1
Students take modules in Programming, Mathematics, Computer Systems and Networking, Web and App Design, User Experience, Personal Development and Internet of Things. This gives them a broad overview of computing and equips them to select their electives in future years.
YEAR 2
Modules in Programming, Mathematics, Cloud Computing and Database Management. Students choose two electives each semester, from Networking or Software Development. The cloud computing module includes certification from Amazon Web Services.
YEAR 3
A mixture of mandatory and elective modules as well as a team project. Third year also includes a 12-week work placement module where students get a chance to gain hands-on experience and prepare for the world of work.
YEAR 4
Modules in Year 4 include Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence as well as advanced networking and cloud computing. Students undertake an individual project which requires them to work with state-of-the-art technology.
All our Computing degrees have a common first year. Students study a wide range of computing modules to give them an understanding of all aspects of computing and the flexibility to change direction in Year 2 if desired. Students can choose from AU955 BSc (Hons) in Computing, AU956 BSc (Hons) in Computer Networks and Cyber Security, AU957 BSc (Hons) in Software Development or AU848 BSc in Games Development
IRELAND AND THE ICT SECTOR
The sector’s traditional players with long-established operations – such as Intel, HP, IBM, Microsoft and Apple, have been joined by newer firms leading the way in the internet and social media revolution, including Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, Amazon, PayPal, eBay and Twitter. Their arrival has firmly positioned Ireland as the internet capital of Europe.
- Over 105,000 people are employed in the technology sector in Ireland, with approximately 70% of those employed by FDI companies.
- ICT Exports are worth €72 billion per annum (40% of total national exports).
- 4 of the top 5 exporters in Ireland are technology companies
- Nine of the world’s top 10 ICT companies are located in Ireland and the IDA supports over 200 FDI firms in this sector.
Ireland is the also the European data centre location of choice for world leaders including IBM, Microsoft, Google, Yahoo, MSN and Adobe and is poised to become a global cloud centre of excellence.
The sector’s wide-ranging activities include Software Development, R&D, Business Services and EMEA/International headquarters.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for CAO courses at ATU Sligo are available for download below:
Career Opportunities
A degree in computing offers countless employment opportunities both in Ireland and abroad. Recent government reports have highlighted a skills shortage in computing. This has resulted in an increase in graduate wages. The average graduate wage is now over €30k whilst some of our recent graduates have commanded wages of almost €45k.
Graduates work in Ireland and internationally in roles such as software developers, software quality assurance personnel, systems engineers, telecoms engineers, database developers, database administrators and more, commanding high salaries.
The degree content has been designed to equip students with the technological skills employers are seeking. Our graduates are work ready. We have also listened to employers and incorporated soft skills such as team work, project management and presentation skills in our programme.
Matthew McMeekin graduated from our Department of Computing and now works for Amazon. "I met with Amazon at the ATU Sligo Careers Fair. Shortly after this, I completed my application and received a job offer as a Graduate Cloud Support Associate before I had finished my studies. My starting salary was €44,600."
Further Study
We offer a wide range of Level 9 and Level 10 postgraduate programmes here at ATU Sligo, such as the MSc in Computing.
Testimonials
Hear what some of our graduates have to say about Computing at ATU Sligo.
Did you know?
We also offer this programme at Level 7 - AU845 BSc in Computing and Level 6 - AU725 Higher Certificate in Computing
Students undertake a work placement in Year 3. This provides an introduction to the workplace and students then return to Year 4 where they consolidate their newly developed skills. In fact, over 70% of our students gain employment directly from their work placement.
Substantial projects enable students to really grapple with a problem and create a killer solution. In Year 3 students have the space and support to work in a team towards a solution that will wow employers.
New high-tech computer teaching labs will open at ATU Sligo in 2023 and give students access to the latest advancements in technology.
Student projects are presented at The Sligo Engineering & Technology Expo. The Expo is attended by a range of companies including Fortune 500 industry leaders. This allows students to network with potential employers. View the 2023 Expo Catalogue
All our Computing degrees have a common first year. Students study a wide range of computing modules to give them an understanding of all aspects of computing and the flexibility to change direction in Year 2 if desired. Students can choose from AU955 BSc (Hons) in Computing, AU956 BSc (Hons) in Computer Networks and Cyber Security, AU957 BSc (Hons) in Software Development or AU848 BSc in Games Development
Students can exit after Year 2 and leave with a Higher Certificate or exit after Year 3 and leave with an ordinary degree qualification.
This is an extremely hands on degree with lots of time spent in computer labs creating programs and solving problems. The aim is to teach students how to use industry standard tools and techniques and then explain the concepts behind them. Creativity, problem solving, persistence and critical thinking are key skills which are developed during the degree.
Our team of lecturers have students as their number one priority. Small class sizes and a hands-on approach means that help and guidance is available when needed.
Alumni
“Studying computer science is a great way to learn how to solve problems in a logical and innovative way. After completing work placement within industry, I’ve realised that the degree has taught me all the skills that will help me throughout my career. It’s amazing to see how much you can do with a single line of code. My final year project was a smart mirror that will show you more than just your reflection.”
Rubab Ramzan, BSc (Hons) in Computing graduate and Software Engineer with Overstock
Course Format
Semester 1
| Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Personal Development | 05 |
| Computer Systems | 05 |
| Introduction to Programming 1 | 10 |
| Design Thinking | 05 |
| Mathematics 1 | 05 |
Semester 2
| Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Internet of Things | 05 |
| Operating Systems and Networks | 05 |
| Introduction to Programming 2 | 10 |
| Mathematics 2 | 05 |
| Web Design Fundamentals | 05 |
Semester 3
Semester 4
Semester 5
Semester 6
Semester 7
Semester 8
[E] = Elective Module. Modules subject to availability.