17/08/2009

College Offers Get Underway

The first round of offers for undergraduate college places begins today as the educational landscape begins to shift.

The number of college places of applicants has risen by 7% this year, with the CAO reporting a marked turn away from courses in construction, civil engineering, architecture and law.

Demand for places in most third-level science courses have surged after much stronger interest from students.

First-preference applications for a higher degree courses in science are up 28%, in line with the Government's push towards an innovation industry in Ireland. As a result, the points requirement for many science courses have increased dramatically.

At UCD, the points for science have increased to 385, up 85 points on last year. This is the first time in over a decade that points for UCD science have exceeded those for UCD arts, which now requires 360 points for entry.

Nursing courses are also up by an average of 40 points following a 14% increase in applications, coupled with the HSE's decision to cut numerous nursing posts.

Primary school teaching, meanwhile, remains a popular choice, with the course requirement increasing by five points.

Points for virtually any degree course linked to construction have slumped. These include courses in quantity surveying, property management, architecture and civil engineering.

(DW/BMcC)

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