SWC Computing Degree Strikes the Perfect Balance for GAA player Gareth McGovern 12 Mar 2025 Following South West College’s (SWC) recent triumph in the Corn na Mac Léinn Cup, Vice Captain Gareth McGovern from Derrygonnelly shares how the College provided the perfect balance allowing him to gain his computing science degree and continue with his passion, playing amateur sports. A former pupil of St Michaels Enniskillen, Gareth achieved exceptional GCSE results before continuing his education at SWC’s Enniskillen Erne Campus, where he studied Sports and Exercise. With a strong interest in computing, he then pursued a Foundation Degree in Computing Science, seamlessly progressing to The Open University’s BSc (Hons) Computing Science programme. Now in his final year, Gareth is on track to earn a full honours degree and credits the College for its supportive and flexible learning environment, which has allowed him to successfully manage both his studies and his commitment to playing GAA for Derrygonnelly Harps, and the College. Reflecting on his journey, Gareth said: “The opportunity to earn my degree locally at SWC has been fantastic. The financial savings on travel and accommodation have been a huge advantage and the ability to stay at home has afforded me more free time. This has allowed me to continue training with my club while staying on top of my studies, ultimately giving me the chance to complete a full BSc (Hons) degree, that will allow me to progress into a career in computing.” “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the course, and the student experience at SWC has been brilliant. Through college football, I’ve made so many new friends and playing football with teammates from across Tyrone and Fermanagh has been an incredible experience. "Winning the Corn na Mac Léinn Cup and becoming All-Ireland Finalists was just the icing on the cake! “Travelling to Mayo for the final was an amazing experience, and the flexibility of the training sessions throughout the year helped accommodate everyone and was great craic.” “I would highly recommend degree-level studies at SWC and the extracurricular activities that are offered. The support from lecturers has been second to none, with every student receiving personalised attention, which makes a real difference and helps you achieve your best.” Gareth’s success both on and off the pitch highlights the benefits of studying at SWC, where students can achieve their full honours degree while balancing extracurricular commitments. Sharon Pritchard, Student Engagement and Support Manager, said: “At SWC, we recognise the immense benefits that extracurricular activities provide to our students, like Gareth, enhancing not only their academic success but also their personal development and well-being. Engaging in extracurricular activities helps students build essential skills, foster new friendships, and maintain a balanced lifestyle that complements their studies. “SWC offers students of all ages the opportunity to pursue their ambitions locally while receiving a high-quality education and excellent career prospects. With a wide range of further and flexible higher education courses available, alongside a vibrant student experience enriched by extracurricular activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy and benefit from.” Higher Education Explore your options Beyond Further Education! Apply Now Share Sign up. Get Qualified. Succeed. Subscribe now for hand-picked courses, inspiration and the latest news and offers, straight to your inbox. The details provided will be used to send you relevant information about SWC. Subscribe now for hand-picked courses, inspiration and the latest news and offers, straight to your inbox. The details provided will be used to send you relevant information about SWC.