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BSc COMPUTER SCIENCE & SOFTWARE ENGINEERING (CSS)

Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE

Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)

CAO/PAC code : MH602

CAO Points : 401

Closing Date : 01 July 2025

View QQI details

Degree Overview
>Study all the principles and uses of computers and software, as well as key areas in mathematics, a major project and a six month placement in industry.
>Acquire hands-on programming skills and advanced problem solving techniques in our dedicated computer science building (Eolas).
>You will study another science subject with Computer Science and Mathematics in first year.
>There is a transfer pathway from 1st year MH201 Science to 2nd year MH602 CSS Computer Science & Software Engineering (through Science). Students must have taken
and passed at least 22.5 credits of Computer Science in first year. There is no limit on places.
>Choosing the Science stream of Computer Science and Software Engineering (MH602) is ideal for students who want to pair their study of Computer Science with Mathematics and additional science subjects.
>This stream provides a focused technical education, making it ideal for those aiming for careers that demand high levels of technical expertise and innovation in computing.
>The Department of Computer Science at Maynooth University was founded in 1987 and is located in the Eolas Building,
a €20M state-of-the-art ICT hub. Our laboratories and equipment provide excellent facilities for practical work and all our courses include a mix of lectures and laboratory work.
>You will gain practical, professional experience by working in industry as part of your degree, enhancing your career readiness and employment opportunities upon graduation.
>We endeavour to provide a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere for learning through our Computer Science Centre, extensive assistance during practical work and we are available outside of lectures to help our students.

Duration: 4 years

1st year

  • Computer Science (30 credits)
  • Mathematics (15 credits)
  • Plus choose 1 other Science subject (Biology, Engineering Science, Experimental Physics, Mathematical Physics)
  • There is a transfer pathway from 1st year MH201 Science to 2nd year MH602 CSS Computer Science & Software Engineering (through Science). Students must have successfully vompleted 1st year, having taken and passed at least 22.5 credits of Computer Science in 1st year. There is no limit on places.

2nd, 3rd and 4th year

  • Concentrate on Computer Science
  • In 3rd year students complete a minimum 6 month placement (subject to availability)

Possible transfer option from MH201 Bachelor of Science degree.

Course Duration: 4 years

Computer Science - Aidan Mooney - Maynooth University

Head of Department

Department of Computer Science


Department of ALL Institute

Joe Duffin

Academic

Department of Computer Science


Department of ALL Institute

Default Profile Photo - Library

Academic

Department of Computer Science


Department of ALL Institute


Department of Hamilton Institute


Department of Human Health Institute

After Graduation
>Computing, programming and software skills are in high demand. Graphical interface design, medical imaging, video-based information systems, multimedia systems development, electronic publishing, artificial intelligence (AI), computer- assisted translation, e-learning systems development, games development, website design and development, and software development are some areas to consider.
>These skills are also valued in non-computing industries, such as financial services, business and administration, health services, and the automobile and aeronautics sectors. The broad choice of subjects to choose from in first year helps prepare students for a wider array of jobs upon graduation.
>Computer Science is a teaching subject at second level and therefore a career in education may also be possible.
>The Department offers a range of postgraduate study options which currently include MSc Computer Science (Software Engineering); MSc Data Science and Analytics; MSc/PhD Computer Science (by research), Professional Master of Education (Teaching).

Visit the Department's website for more information about postgraduate options.

This table displays the requirements for Leaving Certificate applicants.
Subject Required Ordinary Level Grade Higher Level Grade
Irish Yes O6 H7
English Yes O6 H7
Language No N/A N/A
Math Yes O3 H7
Science No N/A N/A

International & EU/EFTA Entry Requirements

Mature Students

Mature Applicants 

Mature applicants are assessed separately to school-leavers. Mature applicants are 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. For part-time/flexible degrees the mature age is 21. 

Click here to be taken to our mature applicant information page - tab 3 on that page outlines application steps for this degree.

Mature applicants who have a disability 

If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia), and require support for any required written exercise/interview/ online video audition which may form part of your application assessment, you must complete an online request form and submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2025. Applications for alternative examination accommodation cannot be considered after this deadline.

For further information on the supporting documentation required, as well as examination and other supports visit the Access Office website.

01 February 2025

Additional Information

Leaving Certificate Applicants

Required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English & O3/H7 Mathematics. MH602 Round 1 Points 2024: 401

Transfer option available into this degree from the Bachelor of Science Degree MH201 - subject to meeting requirements

HEAR and DARE

DARE: The Disability Access Route to Education is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers whose disabilities have had a negative impact on their second level education.

HEAR: The Higher Education Access Route is a third level admissions scheme for school leavers from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Contact the Access Office for more information about these access routes.

The Maynooth Education

Click here for details about optional Critical Skills courses, Electives and degree pathways. 

APPLY TO THE CAO - WWW.CAO.IE

The application process depends on the type of applicant you are. Click here for all information about how to apply.

Categories of applicant:

  • School-leavers (Leaving Certificate students)
  • Mature students (23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University/part-time degrees the mature age is 21)
  • EU/EFTA/UK students
  • International students (outside the EU)
  • QQI (Further Education) students
  • Transferring students
  • Deferring students
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