CAO reveals dramatic increase in interest in science courses

The number of students expressing a first preference for science courses in college is up.

Figures released by the Central Applications Office show a jump of nearly 18.5% on last year's figure, and more than 60% over the last five years.

It comes as no surprise that more and more students are considering a career in high tech science sectors, as the Government and business world have pointed them in this direction in recent years.

The CAO said appplications for computer science at NUI Maynooth is up 60% and 44% in UCD.

The Higher Education Authority has welcomed the surge in interest in science courses.

The body stressed that it is vital for Ireland's future economic growth and social development that we have a greater number of graduates in science and technology.

Meanwhile, interest in courses which would lead to jobs in the construction sector fell 70% in the same time period.

Overall, this year's number of CAO applications is up by about 400.