Computer technicians service and repair computers. There is a huge shortage of these people, according to Seamus Gallen of the National Software Directorate. The main reason is that three big American companies - Intel, IBM and Hewlett Packard - have set up plants here.

"These companies pay good money - often more than £15,000 a year starting out. All you need is a certificate. So, at the age of 19 after two years in an RTC, you could be in a very good job," adds Gallen. Many of the companies taking on technicians will pay college fees so that people can finish their degree on a part-time basis.

For more than 10 courses this year, you would have needed 200 points or less while four colleges were offering places to all qualified applicants. This means that five Leaving cert passes would have been enough to get a place. In fact, many courses had difficulty filling their places. "The courses may have off-putting names - electrical, electronic or mechanical engineering," says Gallen. "It's not rocket science. It's something that almost anyone can do." Whatever about software, these courses are way down most girls' wish list. The National Council for Educational awards has recently produced a pack designed at attracting women into engineering - your guidance counsellor will have a copy.

The points needed for a college place do not refer to the quality of the course or career prospects. They simply indicate supply and demand. Geography often has a lot to with points levels. Students who do well in their certificate and diploma exams can progress, via add-on qualifications, to degree level and beyond. So, students should not dismiss these qualifications out of hand.