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Conor Flynn

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience throughout my BSc Economics and Mathematics. This course particularly suited me due to the fact it covered a wide range of topics from both a business and mathematics perspective. In this sense, I was able to gain a greater understanding of the business world while also developing skills in Data Analytics, Problem-solving and Computer Programming which I could apply in the business world. The common entry first year also gave me time to decide on which aspect I wanted to pursue further of Economics, Physics and Computer Science. I chose Economics as I felt this was the area I found most interesting and which also had the best career opportunities. Economics is a behavioural science and studies decision-making and the allocation of good and services in the market. This was of keen interest to me as I enjoy assessing the process of decision-making and also the optimal choices those in government should utilise to impact their economies. The learning style throughout the course involved elements of both individual and group based projects. This kept the learning interesting and allowed me to view problems from different perspectives as well as providing opportunities to improve my independent thinking and curiosity.

Since completing my course I have chosen to train to become a Chartered Accountant in audit with PwC. Although, this course is not specifically geared towards this field it offers a wide range of modules which have really helped me throughout this pursuit. The key areas of focus to become a Chartered Accountant are Financial Reporting, Financing Decisions, Management Accounting and Taxation. During this course I gained a basic understanding of Financial Reporting but gained an in-depth knowledge of Management Economics and Financial decision making. However, where this course has really helped me in my career is in my day to day work. As part of this course we used a wide range computer software and programming applications such as Excel, PowerPoint, Matlab and R. These have proved invaluable to me as I can tidy data, process and understand data quickly effectively and create data visualisations throughout my day to day work in audit easily. Such examples would include assessing the variances of financial statements balances year on year, tidying large spreadsheet data into ready to analyse data and using analytical techniques to test financial statement balances. If you enjoy problem solving, have a mathematical mind and have an interest in data analytics this course is for you.

Karen O'Sullivan

This course is ideally split almost 50-50 between maths and economics. In this way, both subjects are developed at the same pace - being able to relate each to the other is a huge bonus.

What I enjoy most about the course is the range of teaching methods used. Very few modules are purely taught on the whiteboard, or only taught through programming. Across both economics and maths, lecturers introduce the theory and then implement the theory though statistical programs. Because of this, I am well versed in around 5 different programming packages, which looks very well on my CV. Having all this programming knowledge as well as the underlying theory is very beneficial. It means I know how to apply the theory to real-world situations, to come to meaningful and useful results.

I was on Co-Op placement in the world’s largest aircraft lessor, GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) in Shannon, Co. Clare. I never thought that the aviation industry was applicable to my degree, but that is the beauty of a joint degree with diverse subjects.

I was part of the finance team for aircraft engine leasing. My role involved working with the worldwide engine team, updating monthly industry-demand reports based off real-world engine data, and issuing reports. I also had the opportunity to lead the rehaul of the department’s internal website. This was something completely new to me that was outside what I thought I could do. However, it was a fantastic thing to be part of, and I learnt many new skills in leadership and teamwork.

Having industry experience like UL’s Co-Op placement is invaluable in the jobs market and is a great CV booster. It is highly attractive to employers and gives you an edge when it comes to graduate employment. Co-Op provides a great understand of the professional workplace and really embellishes the fantastic degree that you will get in UL.

Laoise Coughlan

My name is Laoise and I’m currently working as a Data Science Consultant in the Applied Intelligence Department of Accenture Dublin. I graduated from the ¾ÅÉ«ÊÓƵ in 2020 with a BSc in Economics and Mathematical Sciences. My first introduction to Accenture was during my co-op placement in 2019 which was organised through the UL Cooperative Placement Programme. This was a 7-month internship which gave me insight of life working in the data science industry and heavily influenced my future long term career decision. I returned to Accenture in January 2021 and have worked across various projects and industries over the last 2 years.