DCU cites massive swing towards STEM subjects in CAO first preferences

9 Mar 2013

DCU has reported a significant swing in the direction of STEM-based courses in terms of CAO first preference figures. The university said it attracted more than 4,000 first preference applications.

The growing nationwide trend towards STEM subjects is reflected in a massive 120pc increase in Physics with Biomedical Science and 67.6pc in Common Entry Engineering.  

DCU’s Engineering programmes are up 33pc in general since last year, with Electronic Engineering (up 53.8pc) and Mechanical & Manufacturing (up 42.9pc) strands performing particularly well.  Other offerings within the Faculty of Science which have experienced particular increases are Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science (up 54.5pc), Genetic Cell Biology (52.9pc), Financial & Actuarial Maths (up 26.5pc) and Psychiatric Nursing (up 41.7pc).

DCU Business School programmes focussing on the international market have also proved particularly popular this year.  Business Studies International which enables students to study for one year at an international university in Europe, Central America, Japan or China, experienced a leap of 44.4pc in first preference applications.  

The rise in popularity for STEM subjects was welcomed by the president of DCU Professor Brian MacCraith.

“The increased popularity for courses at DCU courses, particularly in the areas of Business, Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths reflects the university’s established reputation in delivering dynamic, industry-relevant programmes with transformative work placements.  DCU will continue to review and enhance its course offerings to reflect the changing demands of students and employers alike,” McCraith said.

Prof Brian MacCraith, Dublin City University president, on meeting the skills challenge in the STEM areas 

John Kennedy
By John Kennedy

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years. His interests include all things technological, music, movies, reading, history, gaming and losing the occasional game of poker.

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