Alternative Maths Exam for Data Science

Another Way to Meet the Entry Requirement for Maths

Students who did not achieve a H5 in Leaving Certificate Maths can sit this exam as an alternative way to meet the entry requirement for our data science courses.

Alternative Maths Exam for Data Science 2024 (2)

Data Science Preparatory Course and Maths Exam

Leaving Certificate maths is a challenging subject with some CAO courses requiring a high grade. A minimum of a H5 in Leaving Certificate Maths is required for our Data Science courses:

BSc (Honours) in Data Science (Level 8)
Higher Certificate in Data Science (Level 6)

However, there is an alternative way to meet this requirement by completing our Alternative Maths Exam for Data Science.

Students can join a 4-day course run by our School of Computing and then take part in the exam which will be set to a similar standard as the Higher Level Leaving Certificate Maths.

Once they pass our alternative exam, they will meet the maths entry requirement for these courses. Please note the other entry requirements which can be found on the course pages.

Preparatory Course and Exam Dates

Dates for the preparatory course, exam and results are below:

Tutorials: 9.30am to 5pm, Monday 2nd to Wednesday 4th September 2024
Exam: 10am to 1pm, Thursday 5th September,
Results: Friday 6th September

If you have any queries, please email our School Liaison Officer, Sophie Costello, who will be happy to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you need more details about this course and exam, check the answers to some frequently asked questions below.

Who is this course and exam for?

The Preparatory Course and Alternative Maths Exam are available for students who wish to study the BSc (Honours) in Data Science or the Higher Certificate in Data Science at National College of Ireland but are worried they may not meet the minimum requirement of a H5 in Leaving Certificate maths.

How much does it cost?

Both the Preparatory Course and the Alternative Maths exam are offered for free.

Where will the course and exam take place?

The course and exam will take place at National College of Ireland’s Mayor Square campus building in Dublin. The classroom location will be sent to those who register.

What NCI courses is this for?

This exam provides and alternative way to meet the maths entry requirement for the courses below:

BSc (Honours) in Data Science (Level 8)
Higher Certificate in Data Science (Level 6)

Dr. Arghir-Nicolae Moldovan, Programme Director of the BSc (Honours) in Data Science at National College of Ireland, discusses the structure of the course, the benefits of studying data science, the employment opportunities the course offers along with the support the college provides for our students.

Do I need to have applied for these courses already?

Students need to have one of our data science programmes included on their CAO application to join this course.

What topics will be covered?

This course will cover the topics listed below:

Statistics and probability
Geometry and trigonometry
Number systems
Algebra
Functions

Download the course syllabus for more details.

Are there are other resources available?

You can access resources from previous exams below:

What do I need to bring with me to class?

We recommend that you bring a calculator, notebook and pencils. Computers will be available if necessary.

What do I do if I have a disability and need supports?

National College of Ireland is committed to providing equal opportunities for all students. If you have a disability and require support, please contact our Learning and Disability Support Team by emailing lds@ncirl.ie with the subject line “Alternative Maths Exam for Data Science” and they will be able to assist.