Bachelor of Arts Education (Computer Science and Mathematical Studies)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

National University of Ireland Galway NUIG

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts Education (Computer Science and Mathematical Studies) at the University of Galway is a four-year undergraduate degree designed for students who want to become qualified secondary school teachers in two highly in-demand subjects. The program blends professional teacher education with strong foundations in computer science and mathematics, making it ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving, technology, and working with young people.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In first year, students are introduced to the fundamentals of teaching, computing, and mathematics. Core modules such as Preparing to Teach, Programming I, Computer Systems, and Principles of Second-Level Mathematics help students develop early teaching awareness while building essential analytical and programming skills.

Year 2:
Second year focuses on developing deeper subject understanding and teaching methodologies. Students study modules including Object Oriented Programming I, Web-Based Information Systems, Calculus I, and Statistics for Data Science, alongside education modules such as Curriculum and Assessment and Methodologies, supported by supervised school-based teaching practice.

Year 3:
In third year, students progress to more advanced topics in both disciplines with modules such as Database Systems, Discrete Mathematics, and Psychology, Sociology and Catering for Diversity. This year also includes Practical Teaching Programme 3 and the first stage of the education research dissertation, strengthening classroom confidence and academic inquiry skills.

Year 4:
The final year places strong emphasis on professional readiness through an extended Block Teaching Practice in a post-primary school. Students complete Research Dissertation Part 2 and select advanced mathematics or computer science modules, allowing them to specialise while preparing for full-time teaching careers.

Focus areas:
Computer science education, mathematical studies, teaching methodologies, classroom practice, educational research

Learning outcomes:
Graduates develop the ability to teach computer science and mathematics at post-primary level, design effective lesson plans, apply educational research in classrooms, and confidently integrate technology into learning environments.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This program is accredited by the Teaching Council of Ireland, allowing graduates to register as fully qualified post-primary teachers in Computer Science and Mathematics.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Galway is internationally recognised for education and graduate outcomes, with strong employability and a long-standing reputation for teacher training excellence.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Galway, this programme is designed to make sure you graduate with real classroom experience, not just academic knowledge. From early in the degree, students actively apply what they learn through structured teaching placements in post-primary schools, supported by practical education modules that build confidence, communication skills, and professional awareness. By the final year, students complete an extended block teaching placement, allowing them to fully step into the role of a secondary school teacher and experience the realities of school life firsthand.

This hands-on learning is supported by a range of university facilities and structured activities that bring theory into practice:

Annual supervised school placements, including a full 13-week block teaching practice in the final year, ensuring strong classroom readiness
Practical Teaching Programme modules that focus on lesson planning, classroom management, assessment strategies, and reflective teaching
Group-based coursework and collaborative projects within education, computer science, and mathematics modules, helping students develop teamwork and instructional skills
Access to the James Hardiman Library, which provides extensive print and digital resources, quiet and collaborative study spaces, and academic support for lesson planning and dissertation research
Use of digital learning tools and computing facilities that support programming, mathematical analysis, and educational technology activities
Campus teaching and learning spaces, including lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and technology-enabled classrooms designed to support interactive and applied learning

Together, these experiences ensure that graduates leave the programme not only academically prepared, but confident, classroom-ready, and professionally equipped to begin a career in secondary education.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Bachelor of Arts Education (Computer Science and Mathematical Studies) leave with a professional teaching qualification that prepares them for rewarding careers in education both in Ireland and internationally. You’ll be ready to work in roles such as a Secondary School Teacher in Computer Science, Secondary School Teacher in Mathematics, Curriculum Developer for STEM subjects, or Education Consultant, combining your passion for mathematics, technology, and working with young people. Because this degree is accredited by the Teaching Council of Ireland, it carries long-term professional value and is recognised for teacher registration:

Career support services: The University of Galway’s Career Development Centre offers guidance through workshops, networking events, CV and interview preparation, and ongoing support for graduates as they transition into their first professional roles.
Employment outcomes: Many graduates secure full-time positions or employment offers soon after graduation, demonstrating strong entry into the workforce in education and related fields.
University–industry engagement: Careers fairs and employer events connect students directly with schools and education organisations seeking qualified teachers.
Employability skills: Students can participate in the University’s Employability Award, which develops leadership, communication, and professional skills valued by employers.
Accreditation value: Graduates are eligible to register with the Teaching Council of Ireland, giving them a recognised professional credential and enhancing long-term career prospects.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this undergraduate degree, students can continue their studies to specialise further or expand their career options. Opportunities include pursuing a Professional Master of Education (Post-Primary), master’s degrees in educational leadership, curriculum design, computer science, or mathematics education, and postgraduate research programmes. Some graduates also explore international teaching qualifications or doctoral study for careers in research or academia.