The University of Limerick continues to be a sought-after third level institution as CAO application figures show wide demand for its programmes by this year’s leaving certificate students. At a time when there is a high demand for graduates for the Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Pharmaceutical and Energy sectors it is encouraging to see increased application numbers for UL’s latest innovative programmes.

Vice President Academic & Registrar, Professor Paul McCutcheon highlighted the significance of the results; “UL’s application numbers continue to perform well across a range of disciplines. The positive response to new programmes shows a renewed focus among students to undertake disciplines of study aimed at supporting Ireland’s economic growth.”

The launch of the new BEng Electronic and Computer Engineering programme has seen a positive response in application numbers. The programme is designed to meet the demand for engineers that will power Ireland’s and Europe’s future economy through the use of smart technologies.

Technology and Science programmes have also performed well with first preference applications increased for the BSc Mobile Communications and Security +89% and BSc Food Science and Health +50%.

Mathematics and Science Programmes at UL
UL is the only Irish university currently offering bonus points for honours maths and it is encouraging to see increases in applications for mathematics and science programmes. First preference applications have increased for BSc Financial Management +40%, BSc Mathematical Sciences +138% and BSc Applied Physics +33%.

Healthcare
There has been continued demand for UL’s nursing programmes with application numbers increased by 14%. UL continues to provide programmes which led the way in healthcare innovation. UL recently launched a new programme, Certificate in Nursing Prescribing targeted at enabling nurses to take a leading role in primary and community care in Ireland.

Broadening the Curriculum - Interdisciplinary Programmes
A number of interdisciplinary programmes are on offer at UL to allow students explore their interest in a range of subjects. Student interest in availing of these options continues with Economics and Sociology up by 88% and Psychology & Sociology also increased by 32%. 

For students who are interested in science or engineering but unsure which fields within those disciplines to choose, two programmes Engineering Choice and Science Choice are on offer. These programmes have been developed to give students a firm grounding in the fields of science or engineering. Overall application numbers for - Bachelor of Engineering – Engineering Choice are up by 24% while the Bachelor of Science – Science Choice programmes saw an increase of 19%.