Maths can be taken as a full degree subject or in combination with an associated subject such as computer science or economics to degree level in both the arts (GY101) and science (GY301) faculties. The common-entry programmes in these faculties allow students a little time to sample a number of subjects before they decide on a particular specialism.

Arts students choose their subjects at the of first year while science students choose at the end of second year. This approach is particularly useful if second-level students are unsure as to which direction they should go.

For those who know their minds from day one, the college has two denominated degrees: computing studies leading to a degree in computing/mathematical science (GY306) as well as the financial maths and economics (GY309).

Prospective students should note that "what is important (for all of these courses) is a certain amount of mathematical ability", according to Ted Hurley, professor of maths at NUI Galway. Not all students on these courses took maths at higher level in the Leaving Cert.

"We have had quite a number of students who came in with good ordinary-level Leaving Cert maths and who have finished up with honours degrees in maths or maths plus a related subject," he says. Only the new degree in financial maths and economics requires higher-level maths. In all other programmes, including computing studies, the minimum standard is an A2 in ordinary-level maths or a C3 in higher-level maths at Leaving Cert.