Why Study Computing?

The Machine: A computer science education podcast

Are you interested in studying computing but feel a bit daunted by entering a field that can seem overwhelming? As professional computer science educators, we are often asked questions by prospective students about what’s actually involved in studying computing, the types of roles one can expect after graduating, the skills a student needs, and more. For this episode, we tried to distil some of those common questions into a podcast. If you’re someone who thinks computing is only for math wizards and “hardcore” programmers, this is the podcast for you! (Spoiler alert: The answer is NO!)

We discuss tech innovation and how ethical IT professionals can have a positive impact on the world. We also explore the hidden perks of IT careers, beyond the good salaries.

Join Amanda Freeman-Gater, TJ McDonald, and Rob O’Connor - all from the Department of Computing and Mathematics at SETU - for an easy-to-follow conversation on why you should study computing.

Useful Links:

Articles

• Careers Portal – Information Technology https://careersportal.ie/sectors/sectors.php?sector_id=8
• Brightwater Salary Survey 2024 https://online.flippingbook.com/view/692494949/
• Technological university graduates more likely to be employed after leaving college (Irish Times) https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2024/12/19/technological-university-graduates-more-likely-to-be-employed-after-leaving-college/
• The highest paying sectors for new graduates (BusinessPlus) https://businessplus.ie/business-insights/highest-paid-graduates/

Courses

• BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (SE600) https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-computer-science-common-entry
• BSc (Hons) in Software Systems Development https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-software-systems-development
• BSc (Hons) in Computer Forensics and Security (SE602) https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-computer-forensics-and-security
• BSc (Hons) in Creative Computing https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-creative-computing
• BSc in Information Technology https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-in-information-technology
• BSc in Creative Computing https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-in-creative-computing
• BSc in Software Systems Development https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-in-software-systems-development

Personal profiles

• Amanda Freeman-Gater https://www.setu.ie/staff/amanda-freeman-gater
• TJ McDonald https://www.setu.ie/staff/tj-mcdonald
• Robert O’Connor https://www.setu.ie/staff/robert-oconnor