Computers: getting there by degrees

Until recently, computing at UCD was a hidden option, lurking among the common-entry science options. Professor Mark Keane says "from the college's point of view, it was a worry. We weren't getting the visibility that we needed - we now have this denominated entry."

When the college introduced the direct-entry course, the number of applications rose hugely. Now second-level students can apply for a direct-entry computer course (cutoff points: 445* last year) or through science (cut-off points: 395*).

So, how to choose? "If you want to do computer science you should indicate that as your first choice," Keane advises. "And, if you're worried about the points aspect, you can put the BSc as your second choice." First-year students on the direct-entry course take computing, maths and two other science subjects.

They are guaranteed a place in the third science honours computer science course, provided they pass the first and second science exams and achieve the required standard in the computer science exam in second science. Students taking computer science through the common-entry science option must compete for a place in the third science honours computer science stream.

Having both direct-entry entry and common-entry is a hybrid system, says Keane. The benefits for someone going into the direct-entry programme are that they have the comfort of going into what they want to do. However, unlike many other direct-entry courses, students are not locked in to their choice.

Taking two other science subjects in first year gives them a safety net in that they can decide to proceed with these subjects rather than computer science. On the other hand, says Keane, direct-entry may exclude able people on the basis of Leaving Cert points. Coming through the common-entry science gives these people a chance.

It's highly likely that UCD will extend its computing options next September to include a new BA in computer science. This will be a direct-entry programme with 50 first-year places. Keane says students will do the same amount of computing as their counterparts on the BSc programme and they will be computer scientists. "From the students' point of view, it allows them to do a wide range of arts subjects other than the usual language options."

This four-year degree will be limited to direct-entry students - no other arts students will be offered the computer science option. Again, students will be able to drop out of the computing stream as they will be taking two arts subjects in first subjects. Keane, who comes from a psychology background himself, says that the interaction between computer science and arts subjects such as psychology is huge.

AS well as planning the introduction of a new computing programme, UCD, in common with other third-level institutions, is increasing the number of computer science places on offer. As most people know, there is skills shortage in the computing area so job prospects and starting salaries are excellent.

UCD's computer science programme does not include work experience. There is an option at present for students to take a year out after third year to do work experience but this is under review.

As to introducing work experience as an integral part of the undergraduate programme, Keane says: "I think we would have the view that we'd like to be putting more into the degree rather than taking something out. I think one of the things about computer science you have to be very careful about is what you are teaching people - and there's a very fine balance between following what the market demands at the moment and covering fundamental theory.

"We have to bias towards the theory end rather than the applications end - because of the pace of change."

That said, Keane is anxious to stress UCD's up-to-date applications. For instance, first-year students are learning Java, a language which is only three years old. We'll always try to be responsive to changes like that, he says.

In addition to its undergraduate options, UCD offers a taught postgraduate higher diploma in computer science. This is an increasingly popular option with graduates wanting to convert to computing. Last year, 82 per cent of applicants were rejected and students needed a minimum of a 2.1 to secure one of the 70 available places.

As to suggestions that conversion courses such as these are watered-down qualifications, Keane says: "This is a very intensive course with a huge amount of practical. Students have a very full week . . . but they are hugely motivated. Everyone likes teaching them. There's a very good air in the class." Up to 60 per cent of those graduating find work in software engineering.

For information, contact the Department of Computer Science, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4 - phone (01) 706 2469, website: http://cswww.ucd.ie/