Skip to main content

Science - Foundation Programme for Mature Applicants

Lifelong Learning
APFC

The Maynooth University Certificate in Science is a Level 6 Foundation Programme for mature students who wish to undertake a foundation year in preparation for degree studies in the Science and Engineering areas, or in the area of Computer Science.

Award Name Minor Certificate (Level 6 NFQ)
NFQ Classification Minor
Awarding Body National University of Ireland
NFQ Level Level 6 NFQ
Award Name NFQ Classification Awarding Body NFQ Level
Minor Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) Minor National University of Ireland Level 6 NFQ
Course Provider:
Location:
Maynooth
Attendance Options:
Full time, Daytime
Apply to:
Course provider

Duration

The course is full-time and delivered over two 12-week semesters, with an additional intensive Mathematics refresher week before Semester 1 begins. Examinations take place in January and May.

Careers / Further progression

The Certificate in Science provides a broad introduction to science, giving students a solid platform from which to progress onto further study at degree level in the areas of Science and Engineering.

Successful completion of the NUI Certificate in Science with a minimum overall grade of 60% will allow enrolment on the first year of one of the degree courses listed below:

BSc Science (MH201)
BSc Computer Science & Software Engineering (MH602)
BSc Computer Science & Software Engineering (Arts Entry) (MH601)
BSc Multimedia, Mobile & Web Development (MH602)
BSc Multimedia, Mobile & Web Development (Arts Entry) (MH601)

Successful completion of the NUI Certificate in Science, along with successful completion of the Maynooth University Special Mathematics Examination in August 2022, will allow enrolment on the first year of one of the degree courses listed below:

Bachelor of Engineering (MH304)
While the Certificate in Science guarantees students, who achieve 60% plus, an offer of a place on specific courses (MH 201, MH601 and MH602), applicants should also be aware of the wider opportunities, that are also available. Past students who have achieved very high grades have successfully progressed across the full range of STEM courses in MU - Physics with Astrophysics (MH204), Theoretical Physics and Maths (MH206), Biological and Biomedical Sciences (MH208), Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Chemistry (MH210) and Science / Maths Education (MH212). Past students have also progressed into STEM courses in other Irish Universities.

For students who have successfully completed the course and decided that Science is not for them opportunities also exist in Arts (e.g. MH101). Completion of the course and achievement of good results are very favourably looked upon by the University as demonstrating both preparation and commitment for level 8 studies.

Course Web Page

Further information

Students enrolling on this one-year, full-time programme can opt for either the Science strand or the Computer Science strand. There are a maximum of 25 places on the course each year, and students benefit from the collegial and supportive learning environment provided by this group.

The course provides a broad introduction to science, with modules on mathematics, computer science, engineering science, experimental physics, mathematical physics, biology and chemistry. The course also provides an introduction to study skills and the psychology of learning and supports transition to university through classes on information technology, effective communication and academic writing. Students will gain experience of working in groups, independent study and giving presentations. Students complete assessments throughout the year and receive feedback on their work. Such experience will be of particular benefit for those going on to degree level study.

Email: emma.whelan@mu.ie / Telephone 01 708 3863
Email: emer.sheerin@mu.ie / Telephone 01 708 3307

Course Provider:
Location:
Maynooth
Attendance Options:
Full time, Daytime
Apply to:
Course provider