About Computer Science, BA - at Trinity College Dublin
Computer science is the study of how computer hardware and software systems are designed, built, and used to support human activity. Computers range from large systems such as those used to manage e-commerce, to desktop PC's or games consoles that you se at home. Computers are also embedded in less visible places, such as mobile phones, cars and robots.
You will study how computers are used to solve challenging problems, how computers work, how computer software is developed, how computer hardware is designed, and how computers communicate with each other; you will also study the relationship between computers and society. Computers are to be found everywhere and their role in the world is constantly expanding, making computer science an exciting and rapidly growing area.
Is this the right course for you?If you are interested in developing solutions to challenging problems, in how technology works, in how technology can be advanced, or in how technology can be applied, this course will suit you. And if you are thinking even further ahead to what you can do when you have completed your studies, you will find that computer science offers a diverse range of career paths.
Course overviewThis four-year programme teaches you the fundamental principles of computer software, information managament, computer hardware, telecommunications, mathematics, and the interrelationship of computers and society.
What will you study?There is a significant amount of theoretical knowledge that has to be understood by everyone working in the area of computer science. This material is taught mainly during the first three years of the course. In the Junior Sophister (third) year a number of options are introduced and you will begin to work more closely in the areas in which you want to focus. Part of the third year will involve work in small teams to develop a large software system. Third year options include formal methods, advanced telecommunications, and advanced computer architecture.
In the Senior Sophister (fourth) year there is a core course and you will choose from a range of specialised courses. In addition, you will be required to undertake a substantial project supervised by a member of staff.
