In 2025, our computer programming graduates proved once again that the FET (Further Education and Training) route is one of the most effective ways to secure a place in Ireland’s most competitive degree programmes. Each university course reserves places for QQI entrants, so our graduates compete on a separate track to Leaving Certificate students.
2025 Progression Highlights for Computer Science
Our 2025 stats show that over 50% of our Computer Science cohort progressed directly to Higher Education, with many securing places in Level 8 Honours Degrees at top universities including UCD, DCU, Maynooth University, TU Dublin and NCI.
Rathmines students were successful in securing 45% of the FET places available on the Level 8 Computer Science degrees in UCD and Trinity.
Why Rathmines Students Succeed
Our curriculum is strategically aligned with the first-year modules of major universities. This means our students entering first year have a major advantage over their peers entering from Leaving Certificate. Out students will also enter with a portfolio of work they can expand on in their university careers.
Many of our students find that the knowledge and experience that they have gained in Object Oriented Programming (OOP) and Software Architecture at Rathmines makes their first year at university significantly easier.
One 2025 success story involved a student progressing to TU Dublin (Grangegorman): After completing his level 5 at Rathmines, he reported that the grounding in OOP and Software Architecture was the deciding factor in successfully navigating his university modules.
Direct & Advanced Entry Routes- How does it all work?
Level 5 to Year 1:** Rathmines level 5 graduates can use your QQI results to apply via the CAO for first-year entry to NCI, TU Dublin, DCU, Maynooth University, Trinity College, and UCD.
Level 6 to Year 2: Our QQI Level 6 Advanced Software Development course (to which 17 students progressed internally this year) offers pathways for “Advanced Entry” directly into the second year of degree programmes at several partner institutions.
In total, 21 students progressed to TU Dublin and NCI, demonstrating the strong institutional links between our Level 5 programs and Computer Science Level 8 degree courses.
Don’t Just Take Our Word For It – Here’s what our Students have to say…
“When I didn’t get the Leaving Cert points I hoped for, I had no idea how I’d get into university. After a year in Rathmines, I realized I was in safe hands. The small classes and supportive tutors gave me the academic confidence I needed. I am now in my final year of a Computer Science degree!” — Mariusz, Past Graduate
Start Your Journey Today
Whether you are a school leaver looking for a bridge to university or a mature student seeking a career change into the tech sector, Rathmines College Computer Programming Courses provides the expertise and the links to get you there.