Continued strong demand for GMIT STEM programmes

In line with other Higher Education Institutes GMIT sees a significant increase in demand for STEM-related CAO programmes this academic year (2021/22), with points increasing for almost 60% of the Institute’s honours degree programmes this year compared to last (2020).

The largest increase is for the B. Sc. (Hons) in Furniture Design, Making and Technology at the GMIT Letterfrack campus which jumped by 205 points, while increases for the other Level 8 programmes ranged from 10 to 80 points.

Dr Michael Hannon, GMIT Vice President for Academic Affairs & Registrar, says: “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. It is my view that the system of giving options to student isn’t working and different arrangements need to be considered for next year". 

“I welcome the additional places made available by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Minister Simon Harris, TD, over the past year. Despite factoring in up to 150 additional places across our suite of programmes our points continued to rise".

“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.”

“Unfortunately demand for programmes linked to the hospitality sector showed a drop in demand. This is understandable due to the impact of COVID. 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".

“Due to a later than normal start-up timetable in response to the issuing of the Leaving Cert results GMIT looks forward to welcoming all first years on campus from 27th September. While some lectures will remain online we look forward to all students having an on-site campus student experience with plans in place for a full resumption of face-to-face activity over the coming weeks.”

The Central Applications Office (CAO) issued over 82,000 offers to some 55,000 applicants this afternoon (Tuesday 7 September 2021). For information about vacant places on some of our CAO programmes, please see:  www.CAO.ie 

 ENDS

Issued by Regina Daly, GMIT Communications & Press Officer, GMIT, Dublin Road, Galway.
0879618355 (m) regina.daly@gmit.ie   www.gmit.ie/news

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