BSc Hons Computer Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University College Dublin

Program Overview

The UCD BSc in Computer Science with Data Science & Artificial Intelligence combines a strong foundation in computing fundamentals with modern focus on data science and AI. It is ideal for students who possess an aptitude for technology, math, programming, and the use of data in solving real-world issues in any sector.

Curriculum Structure

First Year

In Year 1, you’ll build essential computing and mathematical skills. You’ll study Algorithmic Problem Solving, Computer Programming, Functional Programming, and Foundations of Mathematics for Computer Science, alongside Statistics with Python and a team-based Software Engineering Project.

Second Year

Year 2 continues your study of system design and core CS topics: Databases and Information Systems, Discrete Mathematics, Object-Oriented Programming, Computer Networking, Operating Systems, Data Structures, Algorithms, and Linear Algebra, with continued practical project work.

Third Year

The real data‑science focus begins in Year 3. You’ll explore Data Science in Python, Probability Theory, Introduction to AI, Network Analysis, Information Visualisation, Programming for Big Data, Information Security, and take a practical module (Data Science in Practice or a 5‑month internship).

Fourth Year

In the final year, you’ll complete a capstone Computer Science Project and core modules like Cloud Computing, Data Mining, Machine Learning, Recommender Systems, Generative AI: Language Models, and can choose from options such as Deep Learning, Human‑Centred AI, Multi‑Agent Systems, Distributed Systems, Digital Media Ethics, and others.

Focus areas

Data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, software engineering, cloud computing, security, human‑centred AI.

Learning outcomes

Graduates will possess skills and capability to architect and build data‑driven systems through programming, statistics, AI platforms, and ethics computing practices.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This NFQ Level 8 qualification is wholly accredited and prepares students for professional data analytics, AI development, and software engineering professions.

Reputation (employability rankings)

UCD consistently appears among the top European universities in graduate employability, with high performance in computer science, data science, and tech innovation.

 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

You'll learn by doing from the very first day—coding in live environments, working in teams, and analyzing real datasets with industry-standard tools like Python, SQL, and cloud platforms. UCD's state-of-the-art learning spaces, specialist AI and data labs, and strong industry links ensure you graduate career-ready with technical expertise and real-world experience.

Here's exactly what you'll take away in the program:

Interactive labs in the O'Brien Centre for Science: Specially designed for small-group learning (24–32 students), these labs facilitate modules like Data Science with Python and Programming for Big Data

Complex & Adaptive Systems Laboratory (CASL): A research computer lab—ideal for those who want to study networks, AI, and optimisation algorithms

Team-based Software Engineering & Capstone Projects: Work collaboratively on current projects over the course of a year, including the major fourth-year Computer Science Project and Big Data lab work, with supervision by faculty.

Internships in real-world settings: Year 3 placements to intern or work in industry settings—e.g., a Data Science in Practice module, or a 5‑month placement

Professional-grade software tools: Through modules you will be using Python, R, SQL, large data cloud environments, and libraries like TensorFlow/PyTorch for AI and machine learning.

Access to UCD Libraries & online resources: Have access to research project and course assistance through the extensive variety of online journals, datasets, and computing subscriptions available at the UCD Library.

Networking & career direction: UCD Science careers team makes you aware of summer internships, industrial projects, and tech meetups—tied up with workshops to make you more job-ready

These practical sessions give you a chance to apply theory to actual situations—and graduate with a robust portfolio of projects, team-working skills, and industry expertise. You're not only studying data science & AI—you're doing it.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates leave UCD ready for impactful careers—many secure roles such as Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Software Engineer, or Business Intelligence Analyst. With a blend of technical expertise and real-world experience, you’ll enter the workforce as a highly capable, industry-ready professional:

Career support via UCD's Science & Career Development Centre: offers one-to-one career advice, CV workshops, networking events with employers, and summer internship placements for computer science and data science students.

Excellent graduate prospects: 88 % of UCD science graduates are either employed or in further education six months after graduating data scientists in Ireland can earn around €60,000/year to start, while data analysts can earn around €46,000+ to start

Deep industry connections: UCD is in close collaboration with leading tech and data companies in Dublin's vibrant tech ecosystem—students benefit from guest lectures, industry projects, and internship pipelines.

Accreditation & recognition: This BSc is an NFQ Level 8 degree, fully accredited and well recognized by professional organizations—enhancing credibility and long-term career mobility.

Superb employment opportunities: UCD ranks first in Ireland and 87th globally for graduate employability, according to QS (2022) and computer science graduates are among the best paid in the UK and Ireland

Further Academic Progression:

Having completed your BSc, you'll be well positioned to move on to higher study—whether that's an MSc in Advanced Artificial Intelligence, Data and Computational Science, Financial Data Science, or Social Data Science at UCD. These master's programmes build on your undergraduate foundation and can put you on the track to research roles, technology leadership, or specialist roles in AI, analytics, finance, and more — with the backing of UCD's strong academic and research ecosystem


 

Program Key Stats

€29100 (Annual cost)
€ 60
Rolling


10 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

AAC - ABB
3.2
33
80

1090
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Software Developer
  • Database Administrator
  • Computer Hardware Engineer
  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Computer Network Architect
  • Web Developer
  • Information Security Analysts
  • Computer Programmer

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