NCI Blog

Data Science is the study of the processes needed to analyse data using statistics, computer science and domain knowledge. Utilising these tools, data scientists can discover patterns and trends leading to deeper meaning and knowledge for areas such as business, healthcare and technology.

Read on to find answers to our most commonly asked questions about studying Data Science as an undergraduate student with us here at National College of Ireland.

What Data Science courses do you offer at undergraduate level?

At undergraduate level, we offer a BSc (Honours) in Data Science and a Higher Certificate in Data Science. Both courses will equip learners with the necessary skills to succeed in the fast-paced world of Data Science. 

Our BSc (Honours) in Data Science is a full-time course that takes place over 4 years, aimed at school leavers, mature students, and graduates of QQI level 5/6 programmes who want to develop their computing and numeracy skills for a career in data science. Students can apply via the CAO using the course code NC025. 

Our Higher Certificate in Data Science is also a full-time course. It takes place over 2 years and is aimed at students who are unsure about enrolling in a degree programme initially and see the Higher Certificate as a progression route to a degree at a later stage. Those who successfully complete this programme have the option to gain entry directly into year three of the BSc (Honours) in Data Science. Students can apply via the CAO using the course code NC105. 

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

For the BSc (Honours) in Data Science, the minimum entry requirements are a grade H5 or above in two higher level subjects together with a minimum of O6/H7 in four other subjects. A minimum of grade O4/H7 must be obtained in Mathematics. A minimum of grade O6/H7 must be obtained in English or Irish. Applicants who have successfully completed the QQI Level 6 Software Development (6M0691) course may be eligible for advanced entry to year 2 of this programme.

For the Higher Certificate in Data Science, Minimum entry requirements are a grade of O6/H7 or above in five subjects. A minimum of grade O4/H7 must be obtained in Mathematics. A minimum of grade O6/H7 must be obtained in English or Irish.

Mature applicants, applicants with a disability or those applying through the DARE or HEAR access schemes can find out more information on the application process. 

Applicants from a PLC/further education course must meet the CAO points requirement, have a full level 5/6 award, and achieve three distinctions. 

"I chose to study at NCI because of its academic excellence and industry partnerships. NCI offers a comprehensive data science programme that is both practical and theoretical, providing a solid foundation for my future career. Additionally, NCI offers academic support services in maths and computing, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed in their studies." - Vrynsia,  BSc (Honours) in Data Science Alumna. 

What modules will I be taught?

Students will be exposed to a wide range of subject areas and expertise throughout their studies. Modules taught on the BSc (Honours) in Data Science include Discrete Mathematics, Computer Architecture, Operating Systems, Linear Algebra, Advanced Machine Learning among many others. Full module options can be found by visiting the course page on our website.

Modules taught on the Higher Certificate in Data Science differ slightly and include Programming Concepts, The Computing Industry, Data Visualisation, Innovation and Business Entrepreneurship among many more. Full module options can be found by visiting the course page on our website.

Is work placement included?

The BSc (Honours) in Data Science is industry focused with a six-month work placement in the third year, which will significantly improve your skills and enhance your employability.

NCI students are highly sought after and complete their work experience in companies like Microsoft, Eir, AIB, Irish Life, Vodafone, Intel, Citi, SAP and Workday.

"A major advantage to studying Data Science at NCI is the work placement module that is available in the third year of the course. Knowing that during the third year of the course, you will have an opportunity to apply learned knowledge from the course in a professional work environment is a major benefit for when you finish the course and head into the professional environment." - Niamh Daly, BSc (Honours) in Data Science Alumna and former Dell Technologies Intern. 

Are these recognised degrees?

Both the BSc (Honours) in Data Science and the Higher Certificate in Data Science are recognised on the QQI National Framework of Qualifications. Students who complete the BSc (Honours) in Data Science graduate with a Level 8 qualification, while those who complete the Higher Certificate in Data Science receive a Level 6 award.

What are the course fees?

The BSc (Honours) in Data Science and Higher Certificate in Data Science both qualify under the Free Fees Initiative and the Student Grant Scheme. We also offer a Sports Scholarship for high-achieving students involved in sports. 

What will my career look like?

Due to the shortage of suitably qualified data science professionals in Ireland and internationally, both programmes offer exceptional job prospects for graduates.

With a qualification in Data Science, you’ll be prepared to work with a wide range of organisations, from multinationals to financial and professional services companies. Career opportunities include roles such as data scientist, business intelligence analyst, customer insight lead, risk analyst, knowledge engineer, or data programmer

According to a Higher Education Outcomes Report released by the CSO, ICT graduates in 2010 had the highest median earnings 10 years after graduation compared to other sectors based on the analysis of the destinations of students who graduated between 2010 and 2019.

Do you have postgraduate study available? 

Yes! We have a full range of Postgraduate study options available including our MSc in Data Analytics and MSc in Open Data Practice. Explore the full list of programmes on our website to find the one that’s right for you.

Whatever your passion within Data Science, NCI is with you every step of the way. 

Have more questions about studying Data Science at NCI? Come to our CAO Open Day on the 19th of November to meet with staff and students.