Bachelor of Science in Computer Systems

General Information

Advanced and highly sophisticated computer systems are an integral feature of life today. In particular, software intensive systems play an important role in many different areas such as telecommunications, education and entertainment, business and finance,medical devices, automotive and aeronautical systems. Computer technology is often seen as the driving force behind these developments.

But creating software-intensive systems is a human activity. Despite all the advances, software-intensive systems still present many demanding challenges for the professionals who design, build, test and deploy them. Being involved in the development of computer-based systems promises to be an exciting and indispensable career for the foreseeable future.

Since 1979, the Computer Systems programme has aimed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become successful and effective computer professionals. Over 1750 students have graduated from this programme, going on to lead a variety of interesting and rewarding software careers based in large and small organisations, in industry, in research and in education and training. As ever, the primary focus of this course is on the underlying principles of software development and their application to modern software development practices.

In particular, we want students to secure a firm and lasting intellectual foundation that will allow them to acquire new and specific technical knowledge over a lifelong career.The course is designed to give the student ample opportunities to learn and apply knowledge in small tutorial and practical groups.

The aims and objectives of the Computer Systems programme are:

• To develop the skills students will need in order to analyse a wide range of problems. In particular, it aims to develop the capacity to abstract and reason about systems.
• To provide a sound understanding of the theory of computer science and the principles of software development.
• To develop social and communication skills that will enable students to function successfully in organisations and teams.
• To develop a sense of professionalism that will help graduates to apply their skills for the good of society.

Graduates in Computer Systems are well prepared to pursue higher degrees by research or through taught postgraduate programmes. Because of the research expertise in the Computer Science and Information Systems Department, students will have opportunities to work with distinguished researchers during the 3rd year vacation and/or to carry out final year projects under their supervision

Course Structure

The syllabus has been designed to provide you with knowledge of:

• Principles of software design and implementation
• Programming languages and systems used in technical and business software
• Information systems design methodology
• Understanding the social, organisational and historical context of computer systems

An integral part of the course is the Cooperative Education period, during which the student will spend eight months working in a course-related job in a business or industrial environment outside the University.The applied nature of this work placement complements the academic dimension of the course. Students undertake a substantial individual project in their final year, which integrates and applies their previous learning and deepens their knowledge of some particular application or research area relevant to the course.

For further information, log on to www.csis.ul.ie

Entry Requirements

Applicants are required to hold at the time of enrolment the established Leaving Certificate (or an approved equivalent) with at least Grade C3 in two Higher Level subjects and Grade D3 in four Ordinary or Higher Level subjects (including Mathematics; Irish or another language; and English).

In addition, applicants are required to hold at least the following in the Leaving Cert., or an approved equivalent: Grade B2 in Ordinary Level Mathematics (Grade D2 in Higher Level Mathematics also suffices).

Students can also enter this programme of study via the Science Choice degree LM117

A Special Mathematics Examination will be offered

Career Prospects

Graduates of the programme have found employment in the following areas;

• Software Engineering
• Management Consultancy
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Research and Development
• Software Support Services
• Information Systems Development
• Network Administration and Support
• Database Design and Administration
• Software Quality Assurance
• Software Development