Dublin City University 2014 Undergraduate Prospectus. What Will You Do?

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1 Dublin City University 2014 Undergraduate Prospectus What Will You Do?

2 What Will You Do? Embark on one of the most enjoyable, challenging, inspiring, transformative experiences of your life. Explore a subject that suits your passions, interests and mindset. Learn from some of the country s leading minds on our modern campus. Make great friends and future connections. Become prepared for a career that will help shape our ever changing world. All at DCU. DCU Open Days Open Days will take place on Friday 15th November and Saturday 16th November For more information visit:

3 Contents List of courses by subject area 4 Alert list 6 13 DCU LIFE We have a unique and vibrant culture on our modern campus close to Dublin city centre. We provide state of the art study facilities for all our courses and everything else you need for a healthy, fun and active student life. Welcome from the President of DCU 10 Frequently asked questions 15 Improve your employment potential 16 School liason 19 Student services and supports 20 Accommodation 25 Sport scholarships 26 Sports facilities 26 Clubs and societies 29 The campus and surroundings APPLICATION PROCESS Here you ll find all the information you need to make an application for any of our courses. If you still need clarification, don t hesitate to contact us on +353 (0) or at studenthelp@dcu.ie Deferring a course 37 How to apply to DCU 38 ECTS credit framework 39 Application information summary 40 English language requirements 42 Entry requirements (EU) 43 Mature applicants 46 Disability access route to education (DARE) 47 Higher education access route (HEAR) 48 International office 50 Entry requirements (non-eu) 50 Fees information COURSES Find information on each of our courses. Use this quick index and colour code to navigate our faculties, or see our full course listing and index on page 230. DCU Business School 58 Humanities and Social Sciences 78 Science and Health 124 Engineering and Computing 182 Oscail DCU Online Education 210 Summary tables INDEXES A full index and other useful information can be found here. Teaching Council 226 Explanation of unfamiliar terms 229 General index 230

4 HOW Will You Change? Your time at DCU will turn your life upside down, in a great way. You willl learn new skills, aquire new knowledge, make new friends, experience new things and set yourself on course for the rest of your life

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6 List of Courses by subject area Our courses are grouped below under four major subject areas. If you know the subject area but not the name of the course you are interested in, then take a look at the listings below. Business including Marketing, Human Resource Management, Law, Economics, Management and Finance Business Studies 62 Business Studies International 64 Aviation Management/Aviation Management 66 with Pilot Studies Global Business [France, Germany, Spain, USA] 68 Accounting and Finance 70 Marketing, Innovation and Technology 72 Gnó agus Gaeilge [Business and Irish, Irish-medium] 104 Economics, Politics and Law 74 Manufacturing Engineering with Business Studies 198 Enterprise Computing 202 Humanities and Social Sciences Communications Arts 86 Communication Studies 94 Journalism 96 Multimedia 98 Gaeilge agus Iriseoireacht [Irish and Journalism, Irish-medium] 108 Contemporary Culture and Society 92 Languages Arts 86 Contemporary Culture and Society 92 Applied Language and Translation Studies [French, Chinese, German, Japanese, Spanish] 100 Gnó agus Gaeilge [Business and Irish, Irish-medium] 104 Gaeilge agus Iriseoireacht [Irish and Journalism, Irish-medium] 108 Global Business [France, Germany, Spain, USA] 68 Business Studies International 64 Irish-medium Courses (FIONTAR) Arts 86 Gnó agus Gaeilge [Business and Irish, Irish-medium] 104 Gaeilge agus Iriseoireacht [Irish and Journalism, Irish-medium] 108 Economics, Politics, Law and Government Arts 86 Civil Law [Law and Society] 118 Economics, Politics and Law 74 International Relations 120 Contemporary Culture and Society 92 Education and Training Education and Training [full-time] 112 Education and Training [part-time] 114 Foundation Programme in Education and Training [NAVET] 116 Physical Education with Biology 160 Physical Education with Mathematics 162 Science Education 164 Science and Health Chemical Sciences Analytical Science 136 Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences 138 Environmental Science and Health 140 Science Education 164 Common Entry into Science 134 Physical Sciences Applied Physics 144 Physics with Astronomy 142 Physics with Biomedical Sciences 146 Common Entry into Science 134 Environmental Science and Health 140 Science Education 164 Undergraduate Certificate in Fundamentals of Plasma and Vacuum Studies [part-time] 148

7 Biotechnology Biotechnology 152 Genetics and Cell Biology 150 Environmental Science and Health 140 Common Entry into Science 134 Horticulture 154 Marketing, Innovation and Technology 72 Health and Human Performance Sport Science and Health 156 Athletic Therapy and Training 158 Physical Education with Biology 160 Physical Education with Mathematics 162 Nursing and Human Sciences Nursing General 170 Nursing Psychiatric 170 Nursing Intellectual Disability 170 Nursing Children s and General, Integrated 170 Health and Society 168 Psychology 166 Nursing Studies 174 Nursing Theory 176 Higher Diploma in Children s Nursing 178 Mathematical Sciences Common Entry into Actuarial, Financial and Mathematical Sciences 132 Actuarial Mathematics 130 Science Education 164 Physical Education with Mathematics 162 Common Entry into Engineering [undenominated entry] 186 Aviation Management / Aviation Management with Pilot Studies 66 Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Mechatronic Engineering 194 Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering 196 Manufacturing Engineering with Business Studies 198 Biomedical Engineering 200 Common Entry into Engineering [undenominated entry] 186 Computing Enterprise Computing 202 Computer Applications 204 Computational Problem Solving and Software Development 206 Marketing, Innovation and Technology 72 Oscail DCU Online Education Information Technology 211 Humanities 212 Management of IT/IS 211 English and History 213 Engineering and Computing Electronic Engineering Electronic Engineering 188 Information and Communications Engineering 190 Mechatronic Engineering 194 Digital Media Engineering

8 Alert List Please note the following important changes in the prospectus since last year. New Courses BA Arts (Joint Honours) Degree (DC251-DC280) This new, three-year joint honours degree course provides you with a unique combination of subject choices, offering Law, Politics, Media Studies, a foreign language or Irish. The degree will appeal to you if you have a wide range of interests and want to know more about the world around you. You can take a combination of two subjects, for example, Law and Media Studies or Politics and Chinese. Depending on the subjects selected, you will be able to take advantage of employment opportunities in various professions, including media, communications, public relations, research and government, as well as in European and international organisations. See page 86 for full details. BSc in Computational Problem Solving and Software Development (DC122) DCU s School of Computing has launched an innovative degree course designed to produce graduates whoses skills will fill the ICT skills gap and meet the demands of employers both at home and abroad. This BSc in Computational Problem Solving and Software Development (PSSD) is the first of its kind in Ireland. It is aimed at students who can demonstrate a passion for and ability in computer programming and ICT. See page 206 for full details. Course Changes Bachelor of Business Studies International (DC110) The English stream for non-native speakers of English is no longer available. Bachelor of Business Studies (DC111) Language options are no longer available. However, language options are available on DC110, Bachelor of Business Studies International. BA in Economics, Politics and Law (DC230) Since 2013, Leaving certificate ordinary alternative and foundation level mathematics is no longer accepted as a course entry requirement. The minimum mathematics entry requirement is now an ordinary level D3. B.Sc. in Manufacturing Engineering with Business Studies (DC196) For 2014 entry, the specific programme requirements will be as follows: OA2 or HD3 in Mathematics PLUS Grade OC3 or HD3 in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemistry, Agricultural Science. See page 198 for full details. BA in Music Performance/BA in Vocal Studies (Performance) (DC211) BA in Composition (DC212) There will be no entry to first year through DCU. For further information on these courses, please visit Teaching Qualification Secondary School and Further Education BSc in Science Education (DC203) This course has undergone extensive restructuring on foot of new guidelines from the Teaching Council, which governs teacher education courses. The course will continue to be four years in duration but will now be worth 280 credits. It will continue to offer a direct route to qualifying as a teacher of Science and Mathematics (students choose two subjects from Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics). There will also be an additional school placement period in the September preceding Year Three of the programme. See page 164 for full details. BSc in Physical Education with Biology (DC205) This course has undergone extensive restructuring on foot of new guidelines from the Teaching Council, which governs teacher education courses. The course will continue to be four years in duration but will now be worth credits. It will continue to offer a direct route to qualifying as a teacher of Physical Education, Biology and Science. There will also be an additional school placement period in the September preceding Year Three of the programme. See page 160 for full details. BSc in Physical Education with Maths (DC206) This course has undergone extensive restructuring on foot of new guidelines from the Teaching Council, which governs teacher education courses. The course will continue to be four years in duration but will now be worth 265 credits. It will continue to offer a direct route to qualifying as a teacher of Physical Education and Mathematics. There will also be an additional school placement period in the September preceding Year Three of the programme. See page 162 for full details.

9 Education and Training (DC235) At the end of Year Two of the BSc in Education and Training course, students may choose to go directly into final year or to register for an optional extra year and then complete their final year. Students who complete the course in three years will graduate with the BSc in Education and Training, while students who register for the optional Year Three will complete the programme in four years and graduate with a BSc in Education and Training (Further, Adult and Continuing Education). Graduates of the four-year programme will be recognised by the Teaching Council as qualified teachers of further education. See page 112 for full details. Accreditation BSc in Psychology (DC208) The BSc in Psychology is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland. See page 166 for full details. Changes to FETAC Course Entry Requirements FETAC have redesigned some awards. FETAC applicants are requested to check the relevant course section of the DCU prospectus. Further information on FETAC qualifications and scoring can be obtained on Scholarships Academic and Sporting Academic Scholarship Programme Incoming students may be awarded a 1,000 scholarship by gaining a CAO points requirement through the Leaving Certificate or equivalent exams. The points requirement for students who wish to study a course in the following faculties is as follows: Faculty of Engineering and Computing Students gaining 550+ CAO points will be awarded 1,000 Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Students gaining 550+ CAO points will be awarded 1,000 Faculty of Science and Health Students gaining 550+ CAO points will be awarded 1,000 Dublin City University Business School Students gaining 550+ CAO points will be awarded 1,000 There is no application process for this new academic scholarship. If students gain the stated number of points, meet the entry requirements and register in DCU, they will automatically receive the scholarship. In addition to the cash award, the students, along with their parents or guardians and former school principals, will be invited to DCU for an awards ceremony in November. Students will receive their scholarship and the former school principal will receive a plaque for the school to mark this significant achievement. Elite Sportspersons Academic Entry Scheme DCU has also put in place a special academic entry scheme for elite sportspersons for all its undergraduate degree courses. Under the scheme, applications are NOT assessed solely on academic performance (i.e. points attained in school leaving examinations). Sporting achievements are also taken into consideration. For more information, go to page 26. Sport Scholarship Programme DCU supports the holistic development of talented athletes and recognises their increasing need to successfully balance academic and sporting commitments. This is achieved through the Sport Scholarship Programme, which supports athletes who have the talent and dedication to combine an academic course with excellence in sport. It is tailored to the individual needs of each athlete. Athletes are allocated a Sport Scholarship at development, talented or elite level and receive up to 3,000 in support services. For more information, go to page

10 DCU Life

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12 Welcome from the President DCU is a young, dynamic and ambitious university, with a distinctive mission to transform lives and societies through our education, research and innovation. Since admitting our first students in 1980, DCU has made incredible progress. To date, over 43,000 students have graduated from DCU and they are now playing key roles in many sectors across the world. Today, DCU delivers more than 120 programmes to over 11,000 students across its four faculties: Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Health, Engineering and Computing, and DCU Business School. DCU s excellence is recognised internationally. It is ranked, for the second year running, among the top 50 young universities worldwide (QS Top 50 under ). In the last eight years, DCU has twice been named Sunday Times Irish University of the Year. A Focus on Students At DCU, we believe in the transformational impact that a university education can have on the lives of our students. Our main objective is to provide DCU students with an excellent learning experience, and we combine this with a particular focus on their personal development and potential. DCU develops well-rounded graduates with enterprising and creative mindsets, who are widely sought after by employers, and who can deliver their own future. DCU is widely regarded as an innovator in offering degree programmes that anticipate the needs of society and employers. For this reason, DCU graduates are always ready for the changing world! Superb Facilities DCU students enjoy exceptional teaching and learning facilities. These include modern lecture theatres, stateof-the-art research centres, television and sound studios, computer suites and advanced laboratories in the areas of languages, engineering, physics, chemistry and biotechnology, as well as a sports performance centre and a virtual hospital ward. The campus includes a superb sports complex with a 25-metre swimming pool, the award-winning John and Aileen O Reilly Library and The Helix, DCU s renowned performing arts centre. With 95 student clubs and societies, and the Hub Student Centre, DCU s world-class learning experience is complemented by its vibrant, dynamic social environment. Making a Choice In helping you to consider what DCU can offer you, I can assure you that: DCU is committed to providing a highly supportive environment for you along your journey of learning and personal development. This starts with the provision of effective supports to assist you through the transition from second to third-level education. DCU pursues excellence in education and research, and we seek to prepare the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators for the global workplace. DCU focuses on the broader student experience, where you can combine advanced learning in your specific discipline(s) with a broad range of social, cultural and sporting activities. I would like to thank you for your interest in DCU and I look forward to welcoming you to being a part of the DCU experience. Professor Brian MacCraith President

13 Fáilte Ón Uachtarán DCU develops well-rounded graduates with enterprising and creative mindsets, who are widely sought after by employers, and who can deliver their own future. Is ollscoil óg, bhisiúil í Ollscoil Chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath a bhfuil ardmhianta aici. Is é ár misean saol daoine agus pobail a athrú ó bhun tríd an oideachas, taighde agus nuálaíocht. Tá dul chun cinn thar na bearta déanta ag OCBÁC ón mbliain 1980 i leith nuair a ghlacamar le mic agus le hiníneacha léinn den chéad uair. Go dtí seo, tá céim bainte amach ó OCBÁC ag 43,000 duine agus tá róil shuntasacha acu in earnálacha éagsúla ar fud an domhain. Sa lá atá inniu ann, tá breis agus 120 clár ag OCBÁC agus 12,000 mac agus iníon léinn i mbun staidéir orthu sna ceithre dhámh Daonnachtaí agus Eolaíochtaí Sóisialta, Eolaíocht agus Sláinte, Innealtóireacht agus Ríomhaireacht, agus Scoil Ghnó Ollscoil Chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath. Tá breis agus 25% de na hiníneacha agus de na mic léinn in OCBÁC cláraithe mar iarchéimithe; tá beagnach ceithre oiread an líon daoine ag dul do Ph.D le hais deich mbliana ó shin. Pobal éagsúil, ileitneach atá in OCBÁC. Tá níos mó ná 2,000 iníon agus mac léinn idirnáisiúnta ann as 116 tír. Aithnítear a fheabhas atá Ollscoil Chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath ar fud an domhain agus tá sí rangaithe i measc na gcaoga ollscoil óg is fearr ar domhan (QS Top 50 under 50 agus The Times Higher Education 100 under 50 ). Mic agus Iníneacha Léinn mar Chroílár na hollscoile Creidimid gur féidir tionchar mór bunathraitheach a imirt ar shaol ár n-iníneacha agus ár mac léinn trí oideachas ollscoile. Is é an príomhchuspóir againn eispéireas foghlama den chéad scoth a chur ar fáil dóibh siúd a thagann go hollscoil Chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath agus díriú ar a mianach agus ar a bhforbairt phearsanta chomh maith. Tá céimithe OCBÁC ildánach agus tá aigne fhiontraíoch, chruthaitheach acu. Tá sé de chumas acu a dtodhchaí féin a mhúnlú agus bíonn an-tóir ag fostaithe orthu. Tá clú ar OCBÁC mar cheannródaí toisc go ndíríonn ár gcúrsaí céime ar na riachtanais a bheidh ag an bpobal agus ag fostóirí amach anseo. Is mar gheall air sin a bhíonn céimithe OCBÁC ullmhaithe i gcónaí do na hathruithe a thiocfaidh ar an saol! Áiseanna den Scoth Baineann mic agus iníneacha léinn tairbhe mór as na háiseanna ardchaighdeáin teagaisc agus foghlama atá in OCBÁC, ina measc hallaí léachta nua-aimseartha, ionaid taighde den scoth, stiúideonna teilifíse agus fuaime, seomraí ríomhairí agus plúr na saotharlann teanga, innealtóireachta, fisice, ceimice agus biteicneolaíochta. Tá ionad feidhmíochta spóirt ann chomh maith le barda fíorúil ospidéil. Tá ionad spóirt d ardcháilíocht ar an gcampas ina bhfuil linn snámha 25 méadar. Tá Leabharlann John agus Aileen O Reilly, a bhfuil gradaim bronnta uirthi, ann freisin, chomh maith le The Helix, ionad gradamach taibh-ealaíon. Tá 95 club agus cumann ann do na hiníneacha agus do na mic léinn agus is é an Hub an t-ionad acu. Cuireann na gnéithe seo go léir leis an timpeallacht bheoga bhisiúil atá in Ollscoil Chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath agus saibhríonn siad an t-eispéireas foghlama. Rogha a dhéanamh Agus do mhachnamh á dhéanamh agat ar a bhfuil le tairiscint ag OCBÁC duitse, dearbhaím duit: go bhfuil OCBÁC tiomanta chun timpeallacht thacúil a chur ar fáil dár mic agus dár n-iníneacha léinn agus iad ar bhealach an léinn agus na forbartha pearsanta. Tugtar tacaíocht éifeachtach dóibh ón gcéad lá an t-aistriú ó oideachas dara leibhéal go dtí oideachas tríú leibhéal a dhéanamh. go bhféachann OCBÁC le barr feabhais a bhaint amach san oideachas agus sa taighde agus an chéad ghlúin eile de cheannairí, fiontraithe agus nuálaithe á n-ullmhú don áit oibre dhomhanda. gur tábhachtach le OCBÁC eispéireas níos leithne na n-iníneacha agus na mac léinn agus gur féidir leat réimse leathan gníomhaíochtaí sóisialta, cultúrtha agus spóirt a fhí isteach i do chuid ardfhoghlama i do rogha féin ábhair. Gabhaim buíochas leat as suim a léiriú in Ollscoil Chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath agus táim ag tnúth go mór le fáilte a chur romhat isteach san ollscoil amach anseo. An tollamh Brian MacCraith Uachtarán 10 11

14 WHAT Will You Change? DCU believes deeply that our graduates have the power to transform the world around them. Every course is focused on ensuring students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to make a real life difference. Challenges Solutions

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17 DCU Life The Big Questions Everyone has questions about university education and time spent on and off campus. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about studying at DCU. Q: Do I really need a third-level qualification? A: The only person who can answer that question is you. People with a third-level qualification typically get jobs faster and make more money than non-graduates. In addition, graduates advance in their careers faster than non-graduates. So, whether you are a school-leaver or considering returning to education, and if you are ambitious about your career, then a third-level qualification is a good idea. You will find more information on employment rates for graduates from the Higher Education Authority ( It publishes a survey on graduates annually. Apart from laying strong foundations for your future career, a third-level qualification gives you the opportunity to expand your mind in areas that interest you. Increasingly people decide to study simply to fulfil a long-held ambition, and the qualification at the end is a great motivator and an acknowledgement of that achievement. Q: How many undergraduate courses does DCU offer? A: We offer 62 courses in the areas of business and innovation, modern humanities, science and health, engineering and computing, and education studies.the majority of these are full-time courses, for which students are conferred with a primary degree. A small number of the courses are part-time ones or are offered at certificate or diploma level. Q: How long will my course take and where will I do it? A: Most degree courses take four years. There are exceptions, of course. Some courses take three years to complete and our engineering courses give you the option of taking a fifth year for a Masters degree. Many courses include a period of paid work/industrial placement (known as INTRA see page 16), typically for six months in the third year. Students taking language-related degrees spend part or all of their third year studying at a university overseas. The final two years of the Global Business degree are spent at a French, German, Spanish or US third-level institution. Each course is designed to give you the greatest opportunities possible. Q: How is the academic year structured? A: The academic year starts in early September. Orientation for first-year undergraduate students takes place the week before lectures begin. Registration also takes place at this time and students have the opportunity to meet their lecturers, personal tutors and other support staff before lectures begin. You ll also have the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the campus before the majority of the student body returns to college. A provisional academic calendar for the 2013/2014 academic year, available at includes key dates and will give an idea of what to expect. Q: How are the courses structured? A: We use a modular framework. You will typically complete six modules in a semester on an undergraduate course, and 12 in a full year. Q: Will the awarding of my degree be based on passing exams? A: Only partly. DCU also makes extensive use of continuous assessment including project work where appropriate so your efforts throughout the year are rewarded. Q: What if I want to change to another university at some stage during my studies? A: DCU operates a credit system for all undergraduate courses. It may be possible to transfer credits from modules you ve completed to courses at another university. Please see page 39 for full details. Q: How likely am I to get through my first year? A: Obviously that depends partly on how hard you study, but the overall success rate in first-year undergraduate exams is very good. We also do a lot of research into factors influencing student success, which helps us to help our students succeed. Q: Will getting a degree from DCU enhance my employment prospects? A: Students graduating from DCU have an excellent employment record, with many obtaining well-paid employment even before graduation. The most recent post-graduation survey of primary degree graduates (2011 graduates surveyed in March 2012 ) showed that 90% of graduates were in employment, in further study or taking a year out to travel

18 DCU Life Improve Your Employment Potential At DCU we are committed to ensuring that you are provided with industry-relevant degree courses which will help you find meaningful employment upon completion of your degree, should you choose to go straight into the employment market. Employment trends have changed and most graduates find that it is the skills and competencies, rather than purely discipline-specific knowledge, which they have gained during their course that differentiates them from other candidates. The DCU experience prioritises the development of skills and competencies. We offer formal work placement which allows you to experience the workplace as a fullyfledged part of the team. We also offer informal learning opportunities which allow you develop skills such as leadership, adaptability and problem-solving, which are highly sought after in today s workplace. The development of these core skills and competencies can be monitored by you throughout your course on your e-portfolio, an online tool provided to each DCU student upon entry and which you take with you when you graduate as your online CV to showcase your abilities to potential employers. Work Experience INTRA (INtegrated TRAining) Programme At DCU, we are committed to providing courses that are relevant as possible to today s industrial and commercial world. We also think it is important that you get to experience this world for yourself in conjunction with your academic training before you leave DCU. Only then can you fully appreciate what to expect when you graduate. INTRA gives you an opportunity to gain degree-relevant work experience with companies in Ireland and overseas. Over the period of your placement, you will put your academic knowledge to the test in a real working environment that is relevant to your interests. What will you gain from your INTRA experience? The key purpose of your placement is for you to apply your knowledge to real-life working situations, thereby gaining practical skills. But there are several other benefits: You will build up your confidence and develop relationship skills. By applying your knowledge in this environment, you will be able to make realistic and informed career decisions. You might even find that a specialism you hadn t considered is now your preferred direction. You will also generate some very valuable employment contacts. In fact, many DCU graduates gain employment with their INTRA employer. As you begin to see the relationship between your job and your course curriculum, your interest in academic work as well as your motivation will invariably increase too. Finally, in the majority of cases, you are paid for the work you do. The management of the INTRA programme is the responsibility of the INTRA Unit, which is part of the Student Support and Development Department. Close coordination is maintained by the INTRA Programme Coordinators with the relevant programme boards, academic tutors, work supervisors and students. In the unusual event that a placement cannot be found, the student will be given a course-related project. If your course has an INTRA placement, you will be evaluated on it and be required to obtain a satisfactory rating in order to graduate.

19 Graduate Attributes Every DCU graduate is unique. You re here to receive a great education and qualifications but these don t tell the whole story, these don t set you apart. 21st century graduates need more than a great degree, they need to be adaptable, pro-active and the very best version of themselves. The Graduate Attributes programme has been developed by DCU to make sure our graduates have the best chance of finding meaningful work after graduation and staying employable for the rest of their careers. It s simple premise is to build on your core studies with flexible skills and personal projects that help bind your core subject to real world situations. Attributes We ve outlined a set of skills that will help graduates get ready for the fast moving and flexible job market of the 21st century. Take note of these skills and find ways to use and grow them in both your course work and external activities. Creative and Enterprising DCU students are encouraged to be innovative in their approach to problem solving. DCU graduates will be adaptable and willing to pursue new ideas. Committed to Continuous Learning DCU promotes inquiry, reflection and evaluation. DCU graduates will have learned that knowledge is not fixed or static, and that insights and skills can always be improved and developed. Solution Oriented DCU emphasises the importance of providing solutions to problems. DCU graduates will be skilled at effectively applying knowledge to issues encountered in the workplace and in society. Effective Communicators DCU motivates students to appreciate the importance of communication. DCU graduates will be able to draw on appropriate skills to negotiate effectively, collaborate and influence others. Globally Engaged DCU encourages students to be locally and globally aware, to value tolerance and cultural diversity, and to be committed to civic engagement. DCU graduates will understand the importance of engaging with their communities in an ethically responsible manner. Active Leaders DCU focuses strongly on the development of leadership skills. Graduates will appreciate that it is their responsibility to take the initiative and to make changes for the better in every walk of life. At DCU, we are committed to creating an environment which will help you develop these attributes through formal and informal learning as well as through a full engagement in the university experience. Project Portfolio In order to help develop these skills as well as your own passions, identity and place in the world, each student has access to a digital project portfolio. This is where you capture information about any projects, activities or events you re involved in outside your core studies. Whether you re involved in a club or society, on a sports team, are volunteering, helping or developing a community project. Document your projects with photos or scans of clippings, posters or anything else that helps show your involvement. And finally reflect on your involvement and how you developed skills from the toolbox. Growth Starting this process in first year means that by the time you re approaching graduation you ll have a rich, well documented portfolio of personal achievements. You ll have organically developed and strengthened your toolbox of skills and you ll have a strong sense of how to make the transition from being a student to the working world. Your portfolio will also be an important tool in helping to set yourself apart in the job market and clearly showing an employer just what you can do. Uaneen Module In the final year, for students who have been particularly active or engaged, there is the opportunity to add a final layer of depth to their activities by taking part in the Uaneen Module. This requires a written reflection on an aspect of their portfolio and what they ve learned from it. Completion of the Uaneen module truly sets the student apart as someone with drive, ambition and energy. For more information on the Uaneen Module, visit

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21 DCU Life School Liaison We are here to let you know about the opportunities available to you at DCU. We run 62 courses, so there are lots for you to choose from. Our job is to help you with those choices, whether it s by talking directly to you, your parents or a school guidance counsellor. We attend many information fairs around the country. Students at DCU come from all over Ireland, many from schools that we have visited. If you would like us to visit your school to advise students on our courses and give an insight into university and student life, we d be delighted to come. We will tailor our visit to your requirements, satisfying the interests of students, guidance counsellors and teachers alike. School visits School visits are an important part of students decision-making process as it helps them to make a more informed choice. We work closely with career guidance counsellors nationwide, organising visits at a time convenient to your school. There are various types of talks available too, depending on your requirements. One option is a general talk on third-level life and an overview of our courses. We also give tips on choosing the most appropriate degree course and how to prepare for university life. Alternatively, we can concentrate on specific courses or disciplines. This visit can be combined with the general talk presented by one of our staff, or it can be a stand-alone, subject-specific presentation given by a knowledgeable member of staff. We can also bring additional literature, and we are always happy to answer any specific queries you may have. Open Days This year DCU is holding its Open Days on Friday 15th November and Saturday 16th November This is a great chance to find out about courses, scholarships and employment prospects, meet academic staff and explore our outstanding campus facilities, including the 25-metre swimming pool and sports facilities. You can also talk to current DCU students about study, sports, clubs and societies to give you a real taste of DCU life. We will also be holding general talks on university life, which will benefit you no matter where you decide to study. We encourage schools, students, parents, guidance counsellors and teachers to attend our Open Days because they provide an opportunity for everybody to experience DCU and get a feel for the campus. Guidance counsellors will receive an information pack about DCU Open Days in the weeks prior to the event. For further information, visit Campus tours If you can t make our Open Days, the School Liaison team will still welcome your group to DCU. Simply contact us in advance to arrange your visit. Our guided tours include visiting the accommodation facilities, the University Sports Complex, the library, The Hub student centre, restaurants, The Helix and anything else you want to see. Information session for guidance counsellors An information session for guidance counsellors is being organised for Friday 15th November as part of our Open Day, where the School Liaison team and faculty members discuss admissions, CAO changes, DCU courses and graduate opportunities. Please contact us if you would like to attend. Career fairs/exhibitions There are many career fairs/exhibitions around the country arranged by schools and local organisations, and we try to attend as many of these as possible. DCU website is an excellent resource for information on courses, services and facilities in DCU. The website also contains useful information on student life and current developments in the university. Additional contact points If you have specific queries in any of the following areas, please see the relevant sections of the prospectus: Access Office page 48 Disability and Learning Support Service page 47 International Office page 50 Words you may be unfamiliar with In DCU, we use terms such as module, elective and semester. If you re unsure of what these words mean, please go to page 229 for an explanation of these and other words you may be unfamiliar with. To organise a visit to your school or to arrange a DCU campus tour, please contact: School Liaison Team T (0) E studenthelp@dcu.ie DCU is proud to have achieved the Clarity Mark from Plain English Ireland. Plain English is about enhancing readability and improving clarity. The Clarity Mark displayed on this prospectus shows that it is clear, well-written and accessible, and has achieved a high standard of written English

22 DCU Life Student Services and Supports Supports and services available to students attending DCU include: Access Service Careers Service Computer Services Counselling and Personal Development Service Crèche Disability and Learning Development Service Health Service International Office Learning Support Library Religion and Spirituality Student Advice Centre Students Union Tutors Useful Services on Campus Work Experience Access Service See page 48. Careers Service The Careers Service works with all DCU students to enhance their employability and help them compete in today s global marketplace. We do this through the Graduate Attributes initiative, and by helping students to set realistic career targets and achieve their goals. Other services we provide are advice and guidance; workshops (on further study, CV writing, interview skills, career planning, academic and study skills); resources (building your own e-portfolio, careers library); and events and opportunities (employer events, fairs, vacancy system, mentoring programmes). For more information, visit Computer Services Information Systems and Services (ISS) provide computing and networking facilities throughout the campus for use by the students and staff of DCU. As a student, you will be provided with: Free wireless internet all over campus (phones and laptops) 7GB+ of storage in your DCU account (kept on graduation) 1GB+ of online document storage (kept on graduation) Shared access to hundreds of desktop computers across campus Facilities to print A4 pages in all computer laboratories on campus Access to course-specific software in our computer laboratories Personalised portal page for timetables, exam results etc ISS can help with any questions you have about the use of IT facilities at DCU. They also provide support and advice on the use and configuration of your personal laptop. If you require any further information please contact ISS directly. T +353 (0) E iss.servicedesk@dcu.ie Counselling and Personal Development Service We provide a professional and confidential Counselling and Personal Development Service, which is available to all registered

23 Useful links Detailed information on the supports and services offered at DCU can be found at undergraduate and postgraduate DCU students. The service is staffed by counselling psychologists/psychotherapists and psychotherapists at an advanced stage in training. We offer one-to-one counselling, professional crisis support and expert advice on a range of personal and psychological health and developmental issues. Counselling is provided when a student s academic performance is being affected. This may be due to personal, family, social, psychological or mental health issues. Counselling can address a range of issues, such as transition difficulties, loss of motivation/concentration, low self-confidence, and family and relationship difficulties. The focus is to develop an effective response to difficulties, inform your decision-making, enable the problem to be solved and enhance your self-awareness. Visit our website, counselling, to register with our service online and obtain further information. T +353 (0) E counselling@dcu.ie Crèche Our on-campus crèche provides a professional day-care service for infants and young children of students and staff. The fees for 2013/2014 are 205 per week for babies up to one-and-a-half years ( 888 per month) and 190 per week for older children/toddlers ( 823 per month). Fulltime students without a working partner who are using the crèche on a full-time basis can obtain a subsidy from the Student Financial Assistance Fund. The free preschool year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is also available for those eligible to apply. The crèche opening hours are 8.30am- 6.10pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8.30am- 5.45pm on Friday. It is strongly advised to make an early application if you intend to use the crèche. For further details on the crèche, Montessori (8.30am-1.30pm) and Afterschool (1.30pm-6.10pm) facilities, and the ECCE scheme, contact Paula Murray. T +353 (0) Disability and Learning Support Service See page 47. Health Service The Health Service is located in the Henry Grattan building. It is staffed by a team of health professionals throughout the academic year. The nursing service is available on an open door basis, from Monday to Friday. There is a referral system for medical and psychiatric clinics. International Office See page 50. Learning Support Moodle, DCU s virtual learning environment, compliments face-to-face teaching at DCU and provides flexible access to courses on and off campus. Lecturers can use Moodle to direct you to resources such as lecture notes, video clips, podcasts, online journals, practice quizzes and discussion forums. You can also submit assignments online, and the online grade book provides access to your coursework grades. Moodle simply makes learning more accessible and enjoyable. Library DCU Library is a spacious, flexible and comfortable environment in which to study and work. There are quiet study and group study areas on all floors of the library building. To assist you in your work, the library has wireless laptop access throughout the building, lots of PCs and self-service printing, copying and scanning facilities. Access is provided to all essential texts and an extensive collection of print and online journals and books. On the library s website, either on or off campus, you can search the library catalogue and a vast array of databases for journal and newspaper articles, and gain instant access to over 30,000 full-text online journals. You can also access your library account to reserve and renew material online. Staff at the information desk provide oneto-one advice on how to make the most of the library s resources and services. You may also develop your research skills by attending library workshops organised by academic staff and delivered by a team of Subject Librarians. On the library website, you can follow the online tutorial, LETS, which will help you get the best from the library and effectively find quality information for your assignments. For more information about the library or to take a virtual tour of the library building, visit Religion and Spirituality The Inter Faith Centre plays a significant role in building up a sense of community on campus. It is the focal point of religion and spirituality, a place where people of diverse cultural and religious backgrounds meet to chat over a free cup of tea or coffee, pray or take some quiet time. There is a Sacred Space for religious celebrations or group gatherings, a Quiet Room for relaxation and prayer, Muslim prayer rooms and a meeting room for small student groups and societies. It is also home to our two Chaplains, who are always available to listen to and support students. All are welcome to avail of the services offered in the Centre

24 DCU Life Student Services and Supports Student Advice Centre The Student Advice Centre is the hub for all information on student supports at DCU. We offer advice and guidance on all areas, from information on joining clubs and societies to exam preparation and financial assistance. Information is provided to students via free publications, e-resources, student noticeboards and plasma screens throughout the Henry Grattan building. Students can make a one-to-one appointment or drop in to see a student advisor. The centre is also the key information point for the Counselling and Personal Development Service and the International Office. All students and staff are welcome to drop in, phone or us. Our staff are on call to help. T +353 (0) E student.support@dcu.ie Students Union As a registered student of DCU, you automatically become a member of the Students Union. The Students Union works every day to ensure that you get the most out of your college experience. There are eight part-time and three full-time officers of the Students Union, who are current students elected on an annual basis to work for you. Each class also has a number of elected representatives on the Class Representative Council, the body to which the Students Union Executive reports. The Students Union represents students on various university decision-making committees, including the University Executive, Governing Authority, Academic Council, Disciplinary Committee and Library Committee, as well as the Bar Management and The Hub (Student Centre) Management Committee. Representatives on these committees ensure that all decisions made are in your best interests. The Students Union also provides a number of useful services, including bus and rail ticket sales, Ticketmaster sales, second-hand book sales and secretarial services such as binding and photocopying. Of course, there is also an extensive programme of student entertainment throughout the year. Tutors DCU provides personal tutors for all students. These members of the academic staff will initially help you to manage the transition from school to university. They will also be there to give you support, advice and guidance throughout your time at DCU. You will meet your personal tutor when you first start at DCU. You may also drop by the Student Advice Centre in the Henry Grattan building. Useful Services on Campus We aim to ensure that everything you need for university life is right here on campus including: Pharmacy BOI bank Hodges Figgis bookshop The campus student centre, The Hub, has two lounge/coffee bar areas, a games room, a supermarket, a travel shop, a secretarial services bureau, a print shop and meeting rooms for clubs and societies. DCU is the one of the most vibrant universities in Ireland. It offers a wide range of opportunities through the Students Union and its Clubs and Societies. The Students Union represents the students of DCU on many issues. Every student is a member and every class group has an elected representative that reports back to the union s officers. My time in DCU, from a brighteyed first year to becoming elected as Students Union President, has been an absolute blast. I never would have guessed my journey at university would have brought me to being the chief representative for 11,000 students. If you come to DCU, you will find an amazing vibrant place where you can do anything you put your mind to. If I had to choose my university again, I would choose DCU one hundred times over! Paul Doherty President of DCU Students Union 2012/2013 Useful links Students Union Student Advice Centre

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27 DCU Life Accommodation Where can I stay? No one wants to live too far away from campus. Besides the commuting, you might miss out on much of the enjoyment that is university life. In total, there are nearly 1,000 rooms on campus for all undergraduate students. For those who want to live on campus, DCU offers two styles of accommodation for first-year students. Larkfield Apartments consists of two single study bedrooms and a shared bathroom and kitchenette. Hampstead Apartments consists of fivebedroom apartments, each containing four single ensuite rooms and one double ensuite room, with a shared living/kitchen/ dining area. Every bedroom on campus is equipped with high-speed internet access. A charge for this service is deducted from your energy/utilities prepayment. The residences are served by a central reception and launderette facilities are available. How do I apply for accommodation? All CAO applicants can apply for oncampus accommodation from March You must have your CAO number to make an application. All applications must be made online at ie. Applications will be accepted up to midnight the day before CAO results are issued. For further information on the application procedure, contact Campus Residences Limited directly. DCU also runs a special accommodation scheme, which guarantees on-campus accommodation for applicants gaining 500 or more points in the Leaving Certificate. Students wishing to avail of this scheme must apply for on-campus accommodation before the release of the CAO results. How is the accommodation allocated? First-year rooms are allocated to students with 500 or more points in the Leaving Certificate, and by random selection for all other applicants. What payments are required? In addition to the booking/damage deposit and the electricity and heating pre-payment, the annual rent is payable in advance in two instalments. What if I don t want or can t get on-campus accommodation? A list of useful websites detailing available houses, apartments and house shares can be found on our website. Contact us: Campus Residences Limited T +353 (0) E +353 (0) Subsidised Accommodation The Access Service offers a subsidised accommodation scheme to students living outside the prescribed commuting distance from DCU. Students are eligible to apply if their financial circumstances are such that it would be extremely difficult for them to take up their university place. For further details or an application form, please contact the Access Service on T +353 (0) accommodation.shtml Accommodation for International Students As an international student in DCU for the full academic year, you may stay in one of almost 200 rooms in Hampstead and College Park apartments. We also accommodate international students wishing to study at DCU for one semester only. Applications for on-campus accommodation may be made from the application opening date onwards. See for details. Rooms are allocated from July onwards, upon confirmation of a student s attendance at DCU. Please see our website for more details. Costs The rates for the academic year 2013 / 2014 are outlined below: Deposit Booking / Cancellation / Damage Deposit 300 Energy and heating pre-payment 330 Apartments Annual rent Payment terms Larkfield Apartments Available to first-year students only Single-standard two bedroom 4,049 Two instalments of 2,137 and 1,912 Hampstead Apartments Available to all students Single 4,165 Two instalments of 2,198 and 1,967 Superior large 4,233 Two instalments of 2,234 and 1,999 College Park Apartments Not available to first-year students Single 4,421 Two instalments of 2,333 and 2,088 Superior large 4,568 Two instalments of 2,411 and 2,157 Deluxe 4,680 Two instalments of 2,470 and 2,