High demand continues for science and agriculture programmes

Demand for GMIT programmes in Science, Computing and Agriculture continues to be as high as last year, reflecting the national trend, this year’s CAO figures show.

GMIT increased its number of honours degree (Level 8) offerings by 50% for this academic year (2013/14) in response to market demand. This has resulted in a doubling of the GMIT Level 8 offers to applications in ‘round one’ of the CAO.

Apart from the new level 8 offerings, the highest increase in other level 8s in GMIT was in the Bachelor of Science in Medical Science which jumped by 20 points from 390 to 410 and the BA in Heritage Studies which also increased by 20 points from 225 to 245.

Of the 45 ordinary degree offerings (level 7), points increased for 11 of them. The highest increase was for the Bachelor of Arts in Heritage Studies (at the Castlebar campus) which increased by 80 points to 265, and the Bachelor of Science in Physics & Instrumentation which jumped by 60 points from 290 to 350. This is the second year running that points increased for the physics programme. The Bachelor of Science in Furniture Design and Manufacture increased by 15 points to 365.

A number of other level 7 programmes increased by 10 points such as the B. Eng in Architectural Technology, Bachelor of Business in Hotel & Catering Managementt and Bachelor of Science in Construction Management.

CAO figures this year show an increase in the number of Leaving Certificate students putting GMIT programmes as their first preference. This is expected to result in a higher acceptance rate as traditionally 75% of candidates are offered one of their top three preferences.

Registrar of GMIT Michael Hannon says construction-related programmes continue to present a challenge in attracting students, which is a trend reflected across all colleges. “Our Engineering School has responded to this by offering multi-point entry, which gives students greater choice and flexibility as they progress through each year.”

“Engineering students are given a choice of applying for a two-year (Higher Certificate), three-year (L7) or four-year programme (L8) in the construction areas. It gives them the option of progressing onto the next level on satisfactory completion of the initial programme they applied for. This is referred to as the ‘ladder system’ of progression.” explains Mr Hannon.

“Overall, we expect a high acceptance rate for GMIT honours degree programmes as it is the highest level students apply for. That, coupled with the increase in first preference for GMIT courses, bodes well for our acceptance rate this year.”

“My advice to students is to accept the offers they receive, as if they are entitled to a higher offer they will receive it in round 2.” adds Mr Hannon.

Overall, points for 15% of GMIT programme went up this year on last. The number of level 8s (honours courses) offered by GMIT is 27, while the total number including level 7s is 72.