Expand+Course Requirements
Subjects required

Some subjects do not have additional requirements – check the list below for your subject.

Gaeilge Minimum of O1 or H4 in Irish

Mathematics Minimum of O1 or H4 in Mathematics

Music Entry to Music...

Hide-Course Requirements
Subjects required

Some subjects do not have additional requirements – check the list below for your subject.

Gaeilge Minimum of O1 or H4 in Irish

Mathematics Minimum of O1 or H4 in Mathematics

Music Entry to Music is subject to a pre-registration assessment in the rudiments of music (theory and aural test) to indicate suitability for the course. Dates for these tests will be communicated on our website: www.dcu.ie/arts

English No additional requirements (general entry requirements only*)

Human Development No additional requirements (general entry requirements only*)

Geography No additional requirements (general entry requirements only*)

History No additional requirements (general entry requirements only*)

Theology and Religious Studies No additional requirements (general entry requirements only*)

General Entry Requirements
A minimum of six Leaving Certificate subjects at Grade O6 or H7, with at least two at H5, which must include the subjects Mathematics AND either English or Irish.

Leaving Certificate Mathematics Requirements
DCU does not award points for the subject of Mathematics at Leaving Certificate Ordinary Alternative or Foundation Level.

This subject will be accepted for admission purposes for the following courses:

BA in Applied Language and Translation Studies
BA in Contemporary Culture and Society
BSc in Education and Training
BA in Journalism
BA in International Relations
BA in Communication Studies
BA Gaeilge agus Iriseoireacht (Irish and Journalism)
Bachelor of Civil Law (Law and Society)
BSc in Multimedia
Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours)
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

Leaving Certificate Subject Combinations
Certain subjects will not be scored separately if they occur in combination with subjects that are similar in content. In each case, the highest individual grade will be scored.

The following six groups of subjects are affected by this:
1 Music and Musicianship, Music A, Music B

2 Economics, Agricultural Economics

3 Physics with Chemistry – if combined with Physics and Chemistry, only two best scored – if combined with Physics or Chemistry, only best scored

4 History, Economics and Economic History – if all three are taken, only the best two will be scored

5 Latin, Classical Studies

6 Greek, Classical Studies

Bonus Points for Honours Mathematics
25 bonus points will continue to be awarded in 2017 for higher level mathematics, at grades H6 and above in the Irish Leaving Certificate or equivalent.

Expand+Applicants who have a full FETAC Level 5 award in the appropriate qualifications and modules, with a minimum of five distinctions, can be admitted on a competitive basis to certain DCU courses. There are a limited number of places available on course...

Hide-Applicants who have a full FETAC Level 5 award in the appropriate qualifications and modules, with a minimum of five distinctions, can be admitted on a competitive basis to certain DCU courses. There are a limited number of places available on courses.

FETAC has made changes to the CAS (Common Awards System). Please refer to the DCU website for specific details on the range of FETAC awards which link into the university’s Level 8 degree courses.

General Entry Requirements

• Full FETAC Level 5 Certification must be achieved in one single sitting.

• FETAC awards are normally made up of eight minor awards, commonly known as modules.

• Five distinctions from the eight modules must be achieved.

Course Entry Requirements
Additional course requirements are indicated in the details of each course in this prospectus. This requires the attainment of performance in specifically named FETAC Level 5 awards and in some cases, the inclusion of specific modules. For example, for the BSc in Education and Training, students must attain the full FETAC Level 5 award with distinctions in five modules, but three of the distinctions must be in modules that DCU specifies. Please visit www.cao.ie/ index.php?page=fetac_search for the most up-to-date information on course requirements.

Applying to DCU

Candidates make their application to DCU through the CAO and are ranked based on their performance in the eight modules that make up their award. From 2017 the points awarded for FETAC awards will be revised.

Please visit www2.cao.ie/fetac/FETAC_scoring.pdf for scoring information.

Please note
1 A Major Award must be achieved. Component Certificates or Records of Achievement are not acceptable.

2 In certain courses, DCU will require the achievement of certain grades and/or specified components, e.g. five distinctions, including a minimum pass in Mathematics, or four specific science modules.

3 A Major Award may be achieved over a number of sittings; however, for scoring purposes, only results achieved in a single sitting, e.g. between 1st August and 31st July are assessed. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that their FETAC centre applies for a Major Award to FETAC where courses are taken over more than one year.

Expand+EU/EEA and Non-EU
DCU has an active mature student body and strongly encourages applications from mature candidates (those aged 23 years or above on 1st January in the year of entry). As a mature student, your wealth of knowledge and experience wi...

Hide-EU/EEA and Non-EU
DCU has an active mature student body and strongly encourages applications from mature candidates (those aged 23 years or above on 1st January in the year of entry). As a mature student, your wealth of knowledge and experience will make a valuable contribution to the university, and we are always working towards widening participation to allow mature students gain entry onto DCU courses.

What are the entry requirements?
Applying as a mature applicant means that you do not compete with Leaving Certificate students for places at DCU. Instead, experience other than examination grades is taken into consideration – this may be work experience, further studies or other relevant experience. For some courses, however, particular Leaving Certificate subjects may be necessary. In all cases, the university will want to know that you have the ability and motivation to make the most of your studies at DCU.

What supports are available for mature students?
There is a wide network of services. The Mature Student Academic Writing Week prepares you for college life through workshops on topics such as academic writing, citing and referencing. Other topics include supports for students at DCU, such as the Mathematics Learning Centre, IT supports and the Mature Student Society. You will also have access to Student Support and Development workshops throughout the academic year for example CV Clinics, Learning Students and Motivational Workshops.

What financial supports are available to mature students?
There are a number of sources, including the Government’s Free Fees Initiative, the Higher Education Grants Scheme, the Back to Education Allowance and the DCU Student Assistance Fund, once a registered DCU student. Information on these schemes is available at www.studentfinance.ie.

Where can I find out more?
For the Mature Student Officer, please contact 01 700 6987. For general and admission enquiries, please contact the Registry on T +353 (0)1 700 5338 E registry@dcu.ie

How do I apply?
All mature applicants for full-time study must apply to the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1st February in the year of entry.

Expand+There are many different ways to enter DCU. While candidates are primarily assessed on the basis of their second level examinations, other assessments are in place for mature students, students from socio-economic disadvantaged backgrounds, students ...

Hide-There are many different ways to enter DCU. While candidates are primarily assessed on the basis of their second level examinations, other assessments are in place for mature students, students from socio-economic disadvantaged backgrounds, students with disabilities/specific learning difficulties and transfer students. The university is committed to welcoming students from countries worldwide. For Undergraduate Admissions - General Information please go to: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/undergrad.shtml

Expand+Early online application (discounted): Fee €25 Closing Date: 20th January 2017 at 5:15pm

Normal online application: Fee €40 Closing Date: 1st February 2017 at 5:15pm

Late online application - restrictions apply: Fee: €50 Closing Date: 1st May 2...

Hide-Early online application (discounted): Fee €25 Closing Date: 20th January 2017 at 5:15pm

Normal online application: Fee €40 Closing Date: 1st February 2017 at 5:15pm

Late online application - restrictions apply: Fee: €50 Closing Date: 1st May 2017 at 5:15 pm

Change of Mind: Fee: Nil Closing Date: 1st July 2017 5:15 pm

Exceptional online late application - see page 14 of the 2017 CAO Handbook: Fee €50 Closing Date: 22nd July 2017 at 5:15pm

You should avoid submitting an application close to a closing date. No extensions to closing dates will be allowed and all fees are non-refundable.

LATE APPLICATIONS
Late Applications are those which are received after 5:15pm on 1st February 2017 and will be accepted up to 5:15pm on 1st May 2017, subject to the restricitions listed on page 3 of the 2017 CAO Handbook.

Late Applications (Exception to Timetable)
The exceptional closing date of 22nd of July at 5:15pm applies only to applicants who are currently undergraduate students in any year in any one of the participating HEIs (subject to the exclusions listed below). In order to avail of the Exceptional Late Application facility you must have entered the HEI through the CAO system.

If you did not enter your current course through the CAO system, you must first contact the Admissions Office of the HEI to which you wish to apply and they will inform you if you may submit an application direct to the institution.

Exclusions:
You may submit a late application only for entry to courses other than your existing course. If you wish to repeat the year in the same course you must arrange this within your HEI.

Mary Immaculate College Limerick, Trinity College Dublin and the University of Limerick have special procedures in place in the case of current or previous students who wish to apply for entry to another course in the same HEI. Such applicants must contact their Admissions Office to determine the application procedure. However, if you are a student in another HEI and you wish to apply to any of these three HEIs, you should apply through CAO.

Refer to page 15 of the 2017 CAO Handbook on how to make an Exceptional Late Application.

Restricted-category Applicants
Mature applicants – most HEIs will require mature applicants, who wish to be assessed on mature grounds, to have applied to CAO by 1st February 2017 at 5:15pm. (This restriction does not apply if the applicant wishes to be considered on the basis of school leaving qualifications only.) For more information about applying to CAO on the basis of mature years go to www.cao.ie/mature.

Applying for the HEAR and/or DARE schemes – to be considered for the HEAR and/or DARE schemes applicants must have registered on the CAO system by 1st February 2017 at 5:15pm and must have completed the HEAR/DARE application form by 1st March 2017 at 5:15pm – supporting documents must be sent to CAO offices before 1st April 2017 at 5:15pm.

Expand+Why DCU?
• Be part of a close-knit community where you will feel very much at home.
• Large, exciting choice of subjects.
• Internationally recognised lecturers in their area of expertise.
• Become an independent and creative thinker.
• Opportun...

Hide-Why DCU?
• Be part of a close-knit community where you will feel very much at home.
• Large, exciting choice of subjects.
• Internationally recognised lecturers in their area of expertise.
• Become an independent and creative thinker.
• Opportunity to study abroad at one of our international partner institutions.
• Become a graduate with in-depth knowledge of your chosen subjects and a range of transferable skills.

About You
Ever wanted to know how the world around you has been shaped, how it really works? This three or four-year course in the Humanities gives you the opportunity to work in knowledge-areas that help us address these kinds of questions, and to achieve the academic and personal satisfaction that is so crucial to third-level study. If you have an interest in the world around you and modern society, this course will certainly appeal to you.

Understanding Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours):
Having established a record of excellence in undergraduate education the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences is offering a Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours) Degree.

This degree draws on existing DCU strengths while giving you the choice of what you want to study from a unique range of subjects. You will acquire a critical perspective on areas central to contemporary society and you may also develop a high level of competence in an international language or Irish. From 2016 the subjects offered on Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours) Degree include the following:

• English
• Gaeilge
• Geography - this subject is offered only on DC009
• History
• Human Development – this subject is offered only on DC009
• International Languages. (French, German, Spanish)
• Law
• Mathematics – this subject is offered only on DC009
• Media Studies
• Music (restricted entry) – this subject is offered only on DC009
• Politics
• Theology and Religious Studies

Each subject area of the Bachelor of Arts will provide you with an opportunity to gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of a particular academic discipline (see pages 106-113 of the 2017 Undergraduate Prospectus for an explanation of each subject area).

This degree will prepare you for a variety of careers while also providing a solid foundation for further study at postgraduate level.

Course Structure
• English
You will engage with a wide range of literature and become familiar with the vital characteristics and contexts of drama, poetry, film and fiction.

• Gaeilge/Irish
You will learn about Irish culture and tradition as well as developing your practical language skills.

• Geography
(this subject is offered only on DC009)
You will examine human activity, human-environment relations and physical environments at a variety of scales, from the local through to the global.

• History
You will explore how human beings behave grounded on a close examination of how they have behaved in the past in all spheres of the world but with a particular emphasis on Ireland.

• Human Development
(this subject is offered only on DC009)
You will develop an understanding of human needs and capacities at crucial stages of the development process through your studies of Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy.

• International Languages (French, German, Spanish)
You will acquire proficiency in your chosen language and learn about culture, film, literary traditions and intercultural communication.

• Law
You will learn about constitutional and criminal law, about property and European law and the law of evidence.

• Mathematics (this subject is offered only on DC009)
You will develop specialist knowledge, versatile problem solving skills and the ability to think mathematically.

• Media Studies
You will learn about communication theory, the history of the media, film theory and press and public relations.

• Music (this subject is offered only on DC009)
You will engage with a broad range of musicological topics and approaches, and further develop your musicality through performance and composition.

• Politics
You will learn about the Irish, European and American political systems, international relations and the politics of the United Nations.

• Theology and Religious Studies
You will closely analyse ancient and modern texts, explore ethical issues, and develop insights into cultural and religious diversity, as part of the academic study of religion.

You will study your chosen subjects through seminars, lectures, workshops, tutorials, small group settings and some online learning, so you will have lots of opportunities to get to know your fellow students.

As you progress through the course, you will develop excellent research, writing and presentation skills.

Study Abroad
Most subjects offer students the opportunity to avail of a year-long study abroad option.

Gaeilge/Irish DC009
Why is this subject for me?
You will study all important aspects of Irish, its traditions and its place in Irish culture. The programme aims to assist you to achieve excellence in written and spoken Irish. The various modules on offer will also help you to enhance your language competence. These will focus primarily on improving analytical and critical skills, increasing familiarity with sources of information and works of reference about Irish. You will develop further the research and writing techniques that are necessary for programmes of further study or for positions where Irish is used in the workplace.

Geography (this subject is offered only on DC009)
Why is this subject for me?
Geography is all around us and this course will enable you to go on a geographical journey that is informed by what is happening in today’s world. You will examine human activity, human environment relations and physical environments at a variety of scales, from the local through to the global. You will also be able to apply your learning and come to a better understanding of your environment through field trips. Geography is a key analytical discipline that bridges the Sciences and the Humanities. It strives to contribute in a meaningful way to society and to address issues and problems of broad concern to humanity, Throughout the course you will study people and environments in the context of a rapidly changing and increasingly interconnected world. There is an emphasis on ‘real-world’ engagement and understanding, through fieldwork and practical classes. Geographers are much sought after by employers because of their analytical and practical skills, their exposure to diverse perspectives and because of their flexible and solidly based training.

History
Why is this subject for me?
History is an exciting subject to study at third level. It will provide you with an unrivalled opportunity to explore how human beings behave grounded on a close examination of what they have done in all spheres of the world, but with a special focus on the History of Ireland from the stone-age to the present. More particularly, you will study how societies are formed, how people relate, how new ideas emerge and take hold, and how individuals, great and ordinary, shape and negotiate the challenges that are a constant in human life.

Our purpose is to provide you with the skills and information that will equip you to reconstruct and to interpret the historical events. You will also be stimulated to analyse the major themes and issues with which you will engage in the course of your studies. When you successfully complete the course you will possess the skills and qualifications necessary to pursue a variety of career pathways, and to pursue further study.

Human Development (this subject is offered only on DC009)
Why is this subject for me?
Human Development is a unique subject which seeks to understand well-being and human flourishing in different dimensions and at different stages of the life-span. You will be introduced to Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy and engage in a holistic programme which addresses wider social, cultural, economic and political factors which enhance or endanger human well-being. There is an emphasis on the historical dimension of reflection by humans on themselves, while at the same time you are introduced to recent research, and familiarised with a range of research methodologies. Attention is given to conflicting value orientations and discussion of controversial issues concerning human behaviour and identity. The personal, reflective and creative thinking skills that students develop in this subject prepare them well for a changing competitive global work environment. From the complementary perspectives of Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy over the three years, your course work will help you to develop a critical understanding of human needs and capacities at crucial stages of the developmental process.

Mathematics (this subject is offered only on DC009)
Why is this subject for me?
Mathematics is about discovering and exploring ideas and patterns. It offers stimulation and challenge. In studying mathematics you will develop the ability to think creatively, to reason logically and to solve problems. We hope that you will enjoy the elegance of mathematics as well as its practical use in a variety of applications. You can expect individual attention to support your work as you engage in mathematics on your own and in collaboration with other students.

Music - restricted entry (this subject is offered only on DC009)
Why is this subject for me?

Theology and Religious Studies

English

Further information on pages 104-113 of 2017 Undergraduate Prospectus

Expand+Additional Notes
• Subjects are studied for three or four years depending on whether students avail of the year-long study abroad.
• Gaeilge is offered at intermediate level only.
• International Languages includes: French, German or Spanish (a...

Hide-Additional Notes
• Subjects are studied for three or four years depending on whether students avail of the year-long study abroad.
• Gaeilge is offered at intermediate level only.
• International Languages includes: French, German or Spanish (all at intermediate level only).
• Entry to Music is subject to a preregistration assessment in the rudiments of music (theory and aural test) to indicate suitability for the course. Dates for these tests will be communicated on our website: www.dcu.ie/arts

Expand+English
A Future Career
English offers access to many areas of employment. Our graduates have gone on to pursue careers in journalism, public service, creative writing, public relations, media, research, law, communications, publishing, management ...

Hide-English
A Future Career
English offers access to many areas of employment. Our graduates have gone on to pursue careers in journalism, public service, creative writing, public relations, media, research, law, communications, publishing, management consultancy, arts administration, politics, heritage and tourism as well as in teaching.

Geography
A Future Career
As a geography graduate you will have many potential areas of employment open to you including planning, local/community development, environmental consultancy, housing policy, diplomatic service, regional development, humanitarian aid, the public service, tourism, museum/ heritage management, wildlife and nature conservation, market research and teaching.

Gaeilge/Irish
A Future Career
This programme provides you with the opportunity to attain a level of language competence necessary for a range of employment opportunities e.g. teaching, Irish-language sector, journalism, broadcasting, administration, and management. The University provides you with excellent facilities for practising and improving your Irish.

Human Development
A Future Career
Through the combination of lectures, workshops, educational visits/trips and tutorials offered you will have the opportunity to develop intellectually and critically. Many students who take Human Development move into education or community type work. You can also choose to do further courses in the fields of counselling, HR and business. Post graduate study in Humanities or Education has been a strong tradition with Human Development students.

History
A Future Career
Graduates have gone on to pursue careers in teaching, journalism, public administration, business and politics, as well as in management, and library and information retrieval.

Maths
A Future Career
Mathematics offers a firm foundation from which you can move into many careers, either directly or after further study. As a successful mathematics graduate, you will be sought by employers in many areas, not only because of your specialist knowledge, but also because of your versatile problem solving skills and your ability to think critically and independently. In the context of the Joint Honours degree, you can expect mathematics to complement well your other subject choice, thus enhancing your employment prospects. Graduates work in a wide number of areas including business and finance (accountancy, banking, insurance, financial services), computing and information technology (programming, app and web development, computer games, information security, internet search engines), science (meteorology, research), the public service (statistical analyst, civil servant), and teaching. The analytical and problem-solving skills held by mathematics graduates are highly sought after by a wide variety of employers. For students considering a career in teaching at post-primary level, the course of study outlined above meets the current requirements of the Teaching Council relating to mathematics.

Music
A Future Career
Typical career opportunities for music graduates include those in broadcast and online media, arts organisation, post-primary, primary and instrumental/vocal teaching, and performing/conducting.

Theology and Religious Studies
A Future Career
Theology and Religious Studies graduates are working in various areas of professional activity including teaching, lecturing and adult education, pastoral work, journalism, communications, politics and social sciences, European and International religious agencies, voluntary and community organisations, social justice and human rights bodies, development work and research. Please note that in some areas a relevant postgraduate qualification may be required.