A DUNGLOE student who is studying a unique and exciting Cyberpsychology degree believes the course and ATU were a perfect match.
ATU Donegal has recently launched a unique and exciting BSc Cyberpsychology degree programme, aimed at exploring the intersection of human behaviour and digital technology in the online world.
Through this programme, students will gain a deep understanding of various online technologies, including social media, online gaming, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and more, while also studying the psychology behind human use of these technologies.
Livia Quicoli (20) is a first year student from Dungloe who is among the first cohort of students studying the course at Donegal ATU.
When she completes the course, she is hoping to pursue a career in the Technology Design field which consists of understanding how users might interact with technology and creating new solutions.
“The course prepares students for different branches of computing making me ready for different challenges.
“The Cyberpsychology course at ATU Donegal, in simple words, is the study of the psychology behind our own interactions with technology such as social media, gaming, online shopping and the study of how these technologies are designed and created for our needs, which is extremely fascinating.
“This course is a level 8 BSc Hons degree where on the third year there is a one year work placement. The course is really engaging.
“The subjects are easy to understand because you can relate it to your own life. I have learned different sides of the society relationship with technologies that I have never thought of before,” said Livia.
The course was launched in March, and as soon as it was announced Livia knew it was the correct choice for her. I decided to take the Cyberpsychology course because it involves the two fields that intrigue me – psychology and computing.
“Psychology because it explains the different nuances of how our mind works and computing because it is driving the world and specially in Ireland there is a large amount of opportunities for developing a solid career.
“When this course came out in March, I knew it was perfect for me,” said Livia.
Graduates from the course will not only understand what people do online, but they will also gain insights into the persuasion techniques and hooks that companies use to encourage user engagement.
The work placement year within the course will enable students to implement their skills in a real-world setting, significantly enhancing their future employment prospects with companies across Ireland and beyond.
Livia said she has been enjoying her experience at ATU Donegal and praises the staff for their dedication to the course.
“My time at ATU Donegal has been awesome.
“I love that the campus is close to home and also how incredible the relationship of students and staff is at the college.
“Also the college has splendid computer classrooms and lecturers are skilled and spare no effort to bring updated content, dynamic classes that hold our attention and lead us to understand the subject matter,” said Livia.
Graduates of the programme have the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Cyberpsychology at ATU Donegal to become experts in the field.
The programme offers a fantastic opportunity to learn skills that apply to any employer with an online presence, making it an ideal course for anyone interested in a career at the intersection of technology and psychology.
Dr. Gerry McWilliams, cyberpsychologist and lecturer at ATU says; “In today’s digital age, understanding human behaviour online is as important as understanding the technology itself.
“This fascinating and engaging programme prepares students for a future where digital literacy and psychological insight are essential tools for success,” continued Mr McWilliams.
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