The Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Limerick (UL) will be offering a special entrance maths exam to give students a second chance to pursue a course of study in science and engineering. The special mathematics examination is for students who achieve sufficient CAO entry points and satisfy all other entrance requirements, but who do not achieve the requisite grade in Mathematics (Ordinary or Honours) in the Leaving Certificate.  This exam, will take place Thursday, 25 August from 2.30pm – 5.30pm, Kemmy Business School, University of Limerick.

Applications for the Special Mathematics Examination must be sent to Special Mathematics Examination Administrator by 23 August 2011. For further enquiries regarding the Special Mathematics Examination contact Siobhan Harris, Faculty of Science and Engineering, (061-202421 or 061-202642) or visit www.ul.ie/admissions for further information.

UL is the only Irish university currently offering bonus points for honours maths. The Department of Education are looking to increase these bonus points for students sitting exams in 2012. Speaking on the importance of encouraging honours maths students, Dean of the Faculty of Science & Engineering, Professor Kieran Hodnett said; “2011 saw record low numbers of students taking Honours Maths for the Leaving Certificate. At a time where there is high demand for graduates for ICT, pharmaceutical, energy and a wide range of engineering industries it is important that we focus on supporting and encouraging students to pursue study of the sciences and mathematics.”

New courses such as BEng Electronic and Computer Engineering and BSc Energy on offer at UL are designed in response to a demand for professional engineers to work in the growing computer engineering, software and energy sectors. While, the recent introduction of the Bachelor of Engineering – Engineering Choice and Bachelor of Science – Science Choice, programmes at UL aims to give students a firm grounding in the fields of science or engineering. These programmes are designed for students who are interested in science or engineering but unsure which fields within those disciplines to choose.