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Engineering, Mathematics and Science
119
Computer science
COURSE CODE:
PLACES 2011:
POINTS 2010:
DEGREES AWARDED:
TR033
80
355
B.A. (Moderatorship)
M.Sc.
Special Entry Requirements:
Leaving Certificate
HC3
Mathematics
Advanced GCE (A-Level)
Grade C Mathematics
See also:
TR032: Computer engineering, p. 131; Electronic and
computer engineering, page 133
TR034: MSISS, page 124
TR039: Computer science and language,
page 122 (Note: this course was renamed for 2012)
TR082: Computer science and business, page 120
(Note: this course was renamed for 2012)
What is Computer science?
Computer science is the study of everything to do with
computers and our relationship with them. The field began
with the pioneering of theoretical discoveries in logic and
calculation in the nineteenth century and continued through
the development of early computers in the middle of the last
century right up to the present day, when computers have
become powerful and commonplace – so much so that we can
have them embedded into our bodies in the form of pacemakers
and cochlear implants.
Computers have revolutionised almost every aspect of
science, business and commerce in the past fifty years, and
are rapidly doing the same in healthcare, communications
and entertainment. Today computers and the internet are
instrumental in the protection of the environment and are central
to the world’s financial systems. In accordance with Moore’s
Law, computer processing and communication power has
been doubling every 18 months or so, and as their capabilities
increase we continue to find new areas of application. Computer
science gives us the tools to develop these new applications.
Is this the right course for you?
Computer science at Trinity College is a challenging and
exciting course with a focus on innovation and cutting-edge
technology. It demands the very best from our students. As
a graduate you will have a thorough knowledge of computer
science along with a range of professional skills in teamwork and
management. If, for example, you see yourself in a leading team
of software developers in computer games, internet software or
medical technologies or as a researcher developing innovative
technology that will change the way we use computers, then
computer science at Trinity College may be for you.
To get the best from the course you need to be interested in
developing clear logical descriptions of real world problems
and schemes (algorithms) for their solution. Proficiency in
mathematics is required and an ability to communicate
clearly is a most desirable asset.
If you are knowledgeable about computers already, to the
extent of building them or writing programs for them, so much
the better – but bear in mind, no prior knowledge of computer
science is assumed, and this course will take you far beyond
the layperson’s understanding of computer science.
Why study Computer science
at Trinity College?
The School of Computer Science and Statistics in Trinity College
incorporates the oldest and largest department of computer in
Ireland, with in excess of 60 academics lecturers and over 200
researchers working in a wide variety of research areas. The
study of computer science in Trinity was established in 1962 and
since then the department has developed a close association
with the computer sector throughout Ireland in both the private
and public sectors. The Department has earned a strong
international reputation and has partnerships in education and
in research around the world. As one of the leading universities
in the world, Trinity’s computer science degrees are recognised
internationally.
Students entering this four-year course will have the opportunity
to extend their studies and complete a five-year integrated
programme leading to the award of an M.Sc. in Computer
science which meets Engineers Ireland’s professional
accreditation standards allowing graduates to apply for
Chartered Engineer status.
Course content
This course provides you with a broad and rigorous grounding in
computation and computer systems, starting with fundamental
topics in mathematics; logic; electrical theory; programming;
computer systems; and the role of computers in society, and
culminating in advanced topics such as robot vision; virtual
reality graphics; artificial intelligence; hardware system design;
and other topics from the research areas our lecturers are
pursuing. You will be able to select from various subject options
in your Sophister (third and fourth) years.
The Freshman years
The first two years (Junior Freshman and Senior Freshman)
provide the foundation for the course. You will study digital
hardware; networking concepts; programming languages; low-
level programming; information management; and mathematics
together with modules on computers in society and a Broad
Curriculum module on a subject outside the general area of
computer science (see page 13). Individual and group projects
are integrated into the course. For example, a typical individual
project is the building of a complete microcomputer from basic
components.