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Engineering, Mathematics and Science
117
Computer science
COURSE CODES:
PLACES 2012:
POINTS 2011:
DEGREE AWARDED:
TR033
80
385
B.A. (Moderatorship),
Optional: Master in
Computer Science
(MCS)
Special Entry Requirements:
Leaving Certificate
HC3
Mathematics
Advanced GCE (A-Level)
Grade C Mathematics
See also:
TR032: Computer engineering, page 132; Electronic and
computer engineering, page 135
TR034: MSISS, page 124
TR039: Computer science and language, page 120
TR082: Computer science and business, page 118
What is Computer science?
Computer science is a professional subject concerned with the
study of everything to do with computers and our relationship
with them. The field began with the pioneering theoretical
discoveries on logic and calculation in the nineteenth century
and continued with the development of early computers in the
middle of the last century right up to the present day, where
computers have become an integral part of daily life.
Computer scientists are critical to the efficient running of modern
societies, dealing with health, security, banking and finance,
transportation, and now increasingly our interaction through
social networks. Computing professionals, like their counterparts
in medicine, law, engineering, accountancy and finance, deal
with theoretical issues, solve complex problems, deal with
matters of ethics and with society at large. Theoretical issues in
computer science relate to the abstract notions of computation
and information. The study of these issues leads, for example,
to efficient and robust algorithms and to new programming
languages. Applications of computer science range from artificial
intelligence to health informatics, from computer animation and
graphics to information security, and from social network sites to
educational and training systems.
Computer science at Trinity is an integrated programme:
students study for an honors Bachelor’s degree over four years
and have the option to study for a fifth year leading to a Master
in Computer Science (MCS) degree.
Is this the right course for you?
Computer science at Trinity College is a challenging and exciting
course with a focus on innovation and cutting-edge technology that
demands the very best from our students. As a Computer science
graduate you will be able to apply your deep computer science
knowledge along with a range of professional skills in teamwork and
management to solve computational problems in all walks of life.
To get the best from the course you need to be interested in
developing clear logical ideas about situations and about how
to develop feasible schemes (‘algorithms’) for computers to deal
with these situations. Proficiency in mathematics is required.
If you are knowledgeable about computers already, to the extent of
building them or writing programs for them, so much the better – but
bear in mind, no prior knowledge of computer science is assumed.
Why study Computer science
at Trinity College?
The School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity is
recognised for establishing computer science as an academic
discipline in Ireland. Over a period of more than 50 years, the
School has earned a strong international reputation and has
partnerships in education, research and industry across the globe.
The School collaborates with leading employers and fosters
innovation through its many successful start-up companies –
including Iona Technologies, Havok, Kore, Swrve, Quaternion
Labs, CipherDocs, Haunted Planet Studios, Haptica, GLANTA,
Tolerant Networks, Treocht, Cara Health, X Communications Ltd,
EmpowerTheUser, Insight Statistical Consulting and Xcelerit.
This course is accredited by Engineers Ireland.
Course content
Years 1, 2 & 3
In the first three years of the programme, you will develop key
skills in designing and implementing computer programs and
systems, solving problems, using mathematics and communicating
both orally and in writing. You will learn how to use a range
of programming languages and how to tackle large software
engineering projects. You will also learn about computer hardware
and develop a broad knowledge of other topics, including networks
and telecommunications, information management and the
relationship between computers and society.
At the end of year 3, you choose to study either for the honors
Bachelor’s degree (B.A. Moderatorship in Computers Science
or the Master in Computer Science (MCS).
Final years
If you decide to study for the honors B.A. Moderatorship in
Computer Science degree over four years, you can choose
from a range of advanced subjects to study including: artificial
intelligence; computer graphics; animation; computer vision;
networked applications; mobile telecommunications; and many
others. Topics are reviewed annually to reflect developments in
the field of computing.