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GMIT has seen a significant increase in demand for STEM related course this year with points increasing for almost 60% of their honours degree programmes compared with 2020.
By far the most dramatic points increase the IoT has seen this year is in the B. Sc. (Hons) in Furniture Design, Making and Technology, which jumped 205 points.
Other level 8 courses across the GMIT campuses have seen their requirements go up by between 10 and 80 points.
Dr Michael Hannon, GMIT Registrar, said, “This year, we are delighted to see extraordinary demand for programmes in our Schools of Science, Engineering and Design & Creative Arts.”
“It has been a challenging year for everyone, especially for Leaving Certificate students who had the choice of sitting exams or opting for calculated grades or a combination of both.”
“Despite the challenges, the CAO system works and continues to be a fair, equitable and transparent system of distributing access to programmes nationally.”
However, he added that he is also of the opinion that the system of giving option to students is not working, and that different arrangements should be considered next year.
The spike in point requirement at GMIT this year comes in spite of the fact that 150 additional places for their courses that were added by Minister Simon Harris this year.
“We acknowledge that there will be many disappointed students who will not get their first preference to attend GMIT. However, we have healthy waiting lists that will allow us to make additional offers in Round 2,” Dr Hannon added.
While demand for STEM related courses has spiked, there has been a slump in demand for courses related to the hospitality sector.
A highly respected, hospitality focused part of GMIT is the International Hotel School, which offers courses in culinary arts, tourism, hospitality, and more.
Dr. Hannon said that the decline in demand for hospitality related courses is understandable in light of the impact of COVID-19.
“No doubt the sector will bounce back and we will continue to work with our national and international partners in this industry to promote the excellent career opportunities for students and graduates.”
New 1st year students at GMIT will be starting on campus from September 27 this year, later than normal due to the later Leaving Cert results.
