Expert backs arts degrees

FORCING students to take up science and technology courses is not a good move at a time when both industries face an uncertain future, a leading academic has warned.

The Higher Education Authority has been asked by the Government to assess the mix of courses being studied at third level institutions. It is seen as an effort to counter falling numbers of students taking up computer and technology courses, because of the possible impact on international job investment in those sectors.

But Professor Pat O’Connor, Dean of University of Limerick’s College of Humanities, said while the Government wants students to do science and technology courses more are opting for arts, health and social science degrees but she said graduates of arts courses could be much more valuable in the future.