What is Technology?
Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. Students interested in careers in technology will study science, engineering, and the practical application of both.
What 3rd Level Courses are Available?
- Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in the following subject areas:
- Engineering – the study of the design and production of technology, namely engines, machines, and structures.
- Science & Technology Studies – the study of the application of scientific knowledge for practical application.
- Robotics – the study of the design, construction, and operation of robots.
Studying Technology in College
Most first year study involves an overview of the subject. This will offer students an introduction to the foundational principles of Technology including engineering, science, and mathematics.
In subsequent years of study, students will combine practical work, written exams, and projects as benchmark assessments of their course progression.
Most undergraduate Technology courses run for three or four years and in certain cases universities will facilitate work experience.
It is common with all science-based subjects that students are expected to engage in a high number of contact hours with lecturers and tutors, ensuring their successful completion of a rigorous curriculum and preparing them for careers in Technology after university.
A bachelor’s degree is adequate for some non-research jobs. For example, graduates with a bachelor’s degree may start working as computer programmers, database managers, and web developers.
Career Options
Graduating from college with a degree in Technology will serve you well as it equips you with a unique and marketable skill set. A science degree teaches students to think critically and creatively as well as equipping them with invaluable problem solving and communication skills.
Many recent graduates have gone into ‘entry-level’ careers in Technology working as software engineers, network security agents, and data visualization managers.
Other careers in Technology that require a higher degree of responsibility will typically require further education, training and/or experience to qualify for, eg teaching, research and consulting positions.
Related jobs include:
- Computer Programmer
- Computer Scientist
- Database Manager
- Data Scientist
- Information Systems Manager
- Data Visualization Manager
- Network Security
- Software Engineer
- Web Developer
Further study
An undergraduate Technology degree is often the first step to go onto further postgraduate study often involving specialization in particular fields and areas of Technology and/or undertaking work in new, sometimes interdisciplinary fields.
Visit postgrad.ie for more information.
FAQ
- What points do I need to study Technology?
- Different courses and different colleges will have different entry requirements. It’s always best that you check with the individual higher education institution which is available on their websites. As a general rule Leaving Cert students should have a minimum of six subjects which should include: Two H5 (Higher Level) grades and Four O6 (Ordinary Level) grades or four H7 (Higher Level) grades. Subjects must include Mathematics, Irish or another language, and English.
- Many universities also require a Leaving Cert grade H3 in Mathematics.
- Are there any particular qualities you need to study Technology?
- Students interested in careers in Technology will need to enjoy math and science as well as their application in the real world. They will need to be innovative, creative, and collaborative as well as being able to communicate their own ideas and opinions.
- Where can I study Technology?
- Explore your options here
Did You Know?
- Long before Nintendo started making video games, the company was founded as a creator of playing cards in 1889!
- Google’s first Tweet in 2009 was written in binary code and translated to “I’m feeling lucky”!
- Between credit cards and cryptocurrency, over 90% of the world’s currency is digital!
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