Carlow College, St. Patrick’s has received a record number of CAO applications following the CAO application closing date on 1st February. This year, the College has seen a rise of 8% in applications for its undergraduate degrees, with a 10% increase in first preferences.

The popular BA (Hons) in English & History has proven to be a popular pathway for those interested in pursuing careers in secondary teaching, literature and the heritage sector – an upward trend that is continuing year on year.

Similarly, the College’s Arts & Humanities course offerings saw notable increases in applications across both the Level 7 and Level 8 options.  The 3-year BA in Arts & Humanities is the only Level 7 arts and humanities degree offered in Ireland – it includes an optional add-on year to achieve the Level 8.

The College also offers a BA (Hons) in Social, Political & Community Studies, as well as the new BA (Hons) in Psychology which commenced in 2022.

Commenting on the latest CAO figures, Carlow College Vice President Dr Eric Derr said: “The continued upward trend in application numbers demonstrate the vital role Carlow College plays in higher education within the South East of Ireland. Carlow College offers students a unique learning experience in a highly supportive environment, which contributes to the broadening access of third level courses to a more diverse range of students.”

There is still time for prospective students to make their applications via the CAO when late applications open on the 6th March. Existing applicants can also revise their choices via the free Change of Mind facility, which opens on the 5th May until the 1st July.

Carlow College will be hosting a Spring Open Day on Wednesday, 29th March from 10am – 1pm. Visit https://carlowcollege.ie/cao/ for more information.