The numbers of students applying for third level science courses, including computer related courses, rose 18%, with the NUI Maynooth and UCD seeing rises of 60% and 44% respectively, according to figures released by the Central Applications Office (CAO).
According to the figures, science courses have seen a 64% increase in first preferences in the last five years.
The figures were welcomed by various groups in the ICT sector as reflecting the opportunities that exist in the sector for rewarding careers.
"We encourage anyone offered a place in computing to grasp this opportunity to work in one of the most influential fields," said Jim Friars, CEO, Irish Computer Society. "The IT profession has proven to be one of the most resilient in terms of employment. We have seen numerous job announcements in this sector over the past number of years."
"Having a strong pipeline of computing graduates is essential if Ireland is to maintain and attract further foreign direct investment. The computing graduates we are producing are among the finest in the world. What we need is more of them," concluded Friars.
"Today’s figures are very positive," said Paul Sweetman, director, ICT Ireland and ISA. "It’s great to see that the job and career opportunities in the high-tech sector are being recognised by students. Despite the high unemployment rate, there remains enormous demand for quality science, engineering and computer graduates. Companies in the sector are expanding and recruiting.
"Over the past two years, through initiatives such as Smart Futures, industry leaders have been working tirelessly to highlight the career opportunities within the technology sector. In the past five days the sector has created 190 new jobs. This brings the number of jobs announced by the sector to over 1,900 in 2012. Demand for skills across a variety of disciplines continues."
"Attitudes are changing in line with the enhancement of our scientific infrastructure, our talent pool and the increase in opportunities that now exist," said Dr Graham Love, director of Policy and Communications, Science Foundation Ireland. Ireland is seeing the value of scientific training as we become a high-tech nation. This is the path to recovery and a sustainable future."
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