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Mechanical Engineering – BEng (Hons)

  • Campus: Athlone

  • years: 4


Course Overview

Mechanical Engineers shape the world around us and how we live our lives. They invent, design and build things that addresses the problems off today for a better tomorrow.

Mechanical engineering is about putting ideas into action. It is about inventing, designing, developing, manufacturing and maintaining products, equipment and machinery of all kinds. Mechanical engineers use their knowledge of materials, mechanisms, power, energy and manufacturing technology to produce specifications for their designs and to see those designs become a reality. They also build and test prototypes in order to prove their designs.

This course is a result of comprehensive industry engagement defining future needs regionally and nationally. The course will equip our students with the theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical expertise demanded by leading global employers to work in this constantly evolving field.

What will I experience?

At TUS Midlands, Engineering education is very practical. Almost 50 % of your time will be spent in state-of-the-art laboratories developing your practical engineering skills, and the other 50% will be spent on engineering theory and its application.

While studying on this course students will:

  • visit some of our industrial partners to experience the role of a mechanical engineer.
  • gain valuable work experience by completing an industry-based project.
  • improve their teamwork and communications skills by working as part of small teams on projects.
  • develop their problem –solving skills and reasoning techniques.
  • develop their ability to effectively communicate within the engineering community and society at large.
  • upon completion of the course, they will have developed an ability to critically appraise mechanical engineering systems, to identify areas of potential improvement, to bring about corrective action and where applicable, to suggest and implement an alternative solution.
  • Gain valuable work experience in 3rd year by completing a six month work placement.

In the third year of the course, students undertake a mandatory four-month work placement, which spans from January to June. This placement carries a weight of 25 credits and must adhere to predetermined criteria, mutually agreed upon with the employer beforehand. These placements can be pursued both within Ireland and internationally.

What opportunities might it lead to?

Discussions with leading voices in mechanical and manufacturing domains such as Boston Scientific, Athlone Extrusions and Mergon have expressed the need for mechanical engineers with practical skills. In designing this course, the TU, engaged with manufacturing and supply chain companies regionally and nationally, who have endorsed the need for this course. Additionally, research-active companies, have all identified the candidate skills developed within this course as necessary for a future workforce.

Contact Details

Eoin McIntyre

Email: Eoin.McIntyre@tus.ie

Phone: (090) 6468060

What are the entry requirements?

Leaving Certificate

Grade H5 at higher level in two subjects, plus Grade O6/H7 in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate. Two of these subjects must be mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

QQI

QQI applicants to this programme must hold the following award: engineering technology (5M2061). They are also required to have the module mathematics (5N1833) or Maths for STEM (5N0556) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate mathematics. They must also possess distinctions in three modules.

Mature Applicants

Candidates appling as mature applicats (23 years of age on 1st January prior to admission) must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO). As a mature applicant, you have the opportunity to provide additional information about yourself which may help with your application. You can provide details on your employment history, your hobbies and interets, any voluntary work you have done etc.

International Applicants

International applicants should apply directly to the International Office at TUS, allowing plenty of time for completing the visa process. Applications for September start should be made by 1st June at the latest to ensure visas are processed in time. You should familiarise yourself with visa processing times for your country of origin to ensure you make a timely application. Find out more here.

Course Modules

  • Communications for Manufacturing 1.1

    Credits: 5

    This course will develop students interpersonal skills, focusing on conversation, active listening and body language. It will also improve students knowledge of learning and help them develop the skills for lifelong learning.

  • Engineering Science 1

    Credits: 5

    This module introduces the candidates to the fundamental principles of physics in an engineering context. It contains theoretical, practical and empirical material

  • Mechanics 1.1

    Credits: 5

    This module will introduce to the student to the basic concepts of engineering mechanics related to simple engineering systems. It will broaden the student’s knowledge of the basic principles that are fundamental to mechanical engineering design and the operation of mechanical systems.

  • Engineering Materials 1.1

    Credits: 5

    A strong knowledge of engineering materials is essential for a manufacturing engineer when designing, manufacturing and analysing a product. The module is primarily concerned with the structure-processing-property relationship of engineering materials with an introduction to the four main categories of materials Polymers, Metals, Ceramics/Glasses, Composite.

  • Processing of Engineering Materials and Engineering Workshop and Graphics 1.1

    Credits: 5

    The overall aim of this module is to introduce students to drawing, machining and safety. The module provides the student with the skills needed to draw, read and interpret engineering drawings. The students are introduced to CAD software to produce drawing templates. The module provides the student with the skills and knowledge of current standards in engineering drafting practice in both manual and computer aided drawing. The workshop component develops safety skills, safety awareness, machine tool milling and turning skills and assembly of engineering components. Teaching strategies are employed to develop the students’ ability to problem-solve and participate in self-directed and collaborative learning.

  • Mathematics

    Credits: 5

    This course gives students a foundation in the mathematics required for the study of Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering and Automation & Robotics.

  • Communications for Manufacturing 1.2

    Credits: 5

    This course will continue to develop students skills in communication, focusing on presentation skills both with and without notes, academic writing styles and structures. Students will carry out extensive work with Excel, to include creating and manipulating formulae and graphs. They will also learn to apply basic statistics to excel.

  • Electronics Technology 1

    Credits: 5

    This module is an introduction to electronics. The theory of electronics will be taught by way of lectures. The lectures will be supported by lab- based activities. Students will acquire skills to identify components, perform calculations, build and test simple circuits. This module will be of benefit to future electronics and electromechanical studies.

  • Mechanics 1.2

    Credits: 5

    The module will expand the students’ knowledge of solid mechanics with work on friction, simple machines, work power energy, linear and angular motion. It will broaden the student’s knowledge of the basic principles that are fundamental to mechanical engineering design and the operation of mechanical systems.

  • Processing of Engineering Materials 1

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce students to modern engineering processes. The processing of polymers, metals, ceramics and glasses will be covered. Students will get hands-on experience using a range of polymer processing equipment.

  • Engineering Workshop and Graphics 1.2

    Credits: 5

    In this module students experience hands on safe mechanical workshop practices. The importance of safety within a workshop environment. A knowledge of machine tools associated with workshop practices. The module provides students with the skills and the knowledge of current standards in engineering draughting practice in computer-aided design. Students ability to problem solve and participate in self-directed and collaborative learning are central to this module.

  • Mathematics 1.2

    Credits: 5

    This course gives students a foundation in the mathematics required for the study of Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering and Automation & Robotics.

  • Sensor Systems 2

    Credits: 5

    This module introduces the learner to various sensors that may be applied in a range of process control, automated and robotic systems.

  • Mechanics 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This module concentrates on that branch of Engineering Mechanics known as ‘Statics’. Statics is the branch of Mechanics that is concerned with the analysis of loads (force and torque, or “moment”) on physical systems in static equilibrium, that is, in a state where the relative positions of subsystems do not vary over time, or where components and structures are at a constant velocity.

  • Engineering Practice & CAD 2

    Credits: 5

    This module builds on the students understanding of materials and processes and the skills associated with workshop practices used in the mechanical engineering industry.
    It also develops the students’ skills and the knowledge of current standards in draughting practice in 2D computer-aided drawing.
    Teaching strategies are employed to further develop the students’ ability to problem-solve and participate in self-directed and collaborative project based learning activities.

  • Materials 2

    Credits: 5

    To build on the knowledge foundation attained by the student in the topic of engineering materials during the first year of their studies. To broaden their understanding of crystalline and amorphous materials.

  • Energy Systems and Thermofluids 2.1

    Credits: 5

    The basic theory and practical aspects of thermodynamics are outlined and practical aspects of thermodynamics with an emphasis on the engineering, the environment and society are explored. Candidates develop their understanding of the operation of thermodynamic machines, the effectiveness of such machines and how their performance can be improved. The module contains theoretical, practical and empirical material.

  • Mathematics 2.1

    Credits: 5

    To provide the student with a deeper understanding of mathematical methods as applied to Mechanical and Polymer Engineering problems and give them the necessary mathematical background to understand concepts introduced in other subjects.

  • Control and Power Technology 2

    Credits: 5

    This module introduces the concept of a control system and its various elements, and examines system behaviour. In this context it introduces pneumatics as power sources and its applications. It also introduces the student to the programmable controller by way of simple examples and programs. The module provides the student with an understanding and knowledge of the theory of electrical circuits covering both a.c. and d.c. industrial installations.

  • Mechanics 2.2

    Credits: 5

    This module builds on the basic concepts of mechanics of machines. The material covered in the module examines the response of bodies or systems of bodies to external forces.

  • Processes and Operations Management 2

    Credits: 5

    To build on the knowledge attained by the student in first year, to teach the fundamentals of the more prevalent aspects of production processes in association with the operation’s management skills in relation to the running of these processes. To provide the student with the knowledge of production metrics and costing implications of tooling up such a process. To familiarise the student with production costings and techniques relating to manufacturing processes.

  • Process Technology & Design 2

    Credits: 5

    This module builds on the students understanding of materials and processes and the skills associated with workshop practices used in the mechanical engineering industry.
    It also further develops the students’ skills and knowledge of current standards in draughting practice through solid modelling and the production of detailed engineering drawings of models and assemblies.
    Particular attention is paid to developing the students approach to project based learning where certain teaching and learning activities are employed to develop the students’ ability to problem-solve and participate in self-directed and collaborative learning.

  • Energy Sys & Thermofluids 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The basic theory and practical aspects of Fluid Flow are outlined with an emphasis on the processes, the environment and how it affects society. Candidates develop their understanding of fluids mechanics, the operation of systems comprised of these, the effectiveness of such and how their performance can be improved. The module contains theoretical, practical and empirical material.

  • Mathematics 2.2

    Credits: 5

    To provide the student with a deeper understanding of mathematical methods as applied to Mechanical and Polymer engineering problems and give them the necessary mathematical background to understand concepts introduced in other subjects.

  • Statistics and Lean Sigma 3

    Credits: 5

    This module provides Engineering Students with statistical tools required for evaluating process performance with the intention of making improvements and maintaining control.

  • Mechanical Systems Design 3

    Credits: 5

    Stress analysis of engineering design problems.
    Using mathematical tools to solve design problems involving compound structures, non-uniform cross sections, mechanical and thermal stresses.

  • Control & Automation 3

    Credits: 5

    This module aims to promote a basic understanding of control theory and robot kinematics while building on the students existing knowledge of programmable controllers in dealing with sequencing control tasks.

  • Heat Transfer 3

    Credits: 5

    This module aims to enhance the students’ understanding of the physical behaviour of heat transfer principles by applying them to a range of thermal systems and processes. This involves the utilisation of the various heat transfer concepts and techniques in characterising and solving real life heat transfer problems, such as practical heat exchangers.

  • Energy Systems & Thermofluids 3

    Credits: 5

    The practical and theoretical aspects of the Thermodynamic Laws with an emphasis on the processes, the environment and society are explored. Candidates develop their comprehension of these laws through an integrated and applied approach and develop their ability to analyse thermodynamic and thermofluidic systems. The module contains theoretical, practical and empirical material.

  • Mathematics 3

    Credits: 5

    This module is designed to introduce students to problem-solving using Laplace transforms, linear programming, matrices and statistics

  • Project Evaluation and Management 3

    Credits: 5

    The module will enable students to critically evaluate project proposals as well as plan and manage their own projects and participate in industrial projects.

  • Industrial Placement 3

    Credits: 25

    Industrial Placement forms an integral part of the degree programme. Learners must complete the requisite industrial experience with a suitable commercial body for a minimum period of 24 weeks. A student may extend this period by mutual agreement with the company/host. Throughout this period learners will work on the preparation of an evidenced backed portfolio. On completion of this work experience learners will be assessed by a number of methods including reports, presentations, poster presentations and interviews.

  • Regulatory Compliance and Validation 4

    Credits: 5

    Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices industries must comply with the regulatory requirements of the markets that they supply to. This module aims to equip students with the requisite knowledge that will allow them to adhere to the specific regulatory requirements of safety, efficacy, quality and performance.
    Validation is a regulatory requirement as well as a process of establishing documentary evidence demonstrating that a procedure, process, or activity carried out in testing or production maintains the desired level of compliance. This module will incorporate the documentary and testing requirements of a validation programme.

  • Computer Aided Engineering Design & Analysis 4

    Credits: 5

    The successful alignment and integrated implementation of all analytical and computational techniques resulting in a more streamlined engineering design/manufacturing process with reduced costs, decreased development time and improved quality through the efficient usage and application of computational engines and appropriate industry-specific software.

  • Dynamics and Vibrations 4

    Credits: 5

    This module aims to equip the student with the knowledge and understanding of the essential elements of mechanical vibrations.
    Students will learn to analyse single degree of freedom systems and multi degree of freedom systems and how these systems may be used as a model for more complex engineering structures.
    Students will learn to assess the dynamic responses of the system to both impulse and sustained forcing functions, and how the system may resonate under these conditions.

  • Electrical Power Systems and Machines 4

    Credits: 5

    This module will introduce the student to components of the electrical infrastructure typical of the industrial environment.

  • HVAC and Utilities 4

    Credits: 5

    This module will enable the learner gain an understanding of the operation and utilisation of HVAC systems, and building utilities and their integration within contemporary and future energy supply and demand profiles and applications.
    It also focuses on the development of effective and efficient self−directed research skills.

  • Final Year Project 4

    Credits: 5

    To develop the student’s ability to carry out independent research into a relevant topic of technical merit related to the particular field of study.
    To demonstrate the student’s ability to draw together in-depth knowledge and skills gained throughout the programme of study, together with independent learning, and to apply to a current and relevant industrial based engineering project.
    To instil in the student the techniques required for effective dissertation preparation and presentation at an industrial level.

  • Operations Management & Sustainability 4

    Credits: 5

    This module addresses two important areas of management that are essential to an engineering graduate; operations and sustainability. Operations management as a concept is introduced by exploring the role that operations management plays in productivity as well as global operating environments and strategy. Key aspects of designing operations are explored such as product design & development decisions in particular design for sustainability and product safety, process design, layout decisions, job design, ergonomics, and workplace safety. Sustainability at the level of the organisation is explored with particular emphasis on the sustainability of the transformation process.

  • Industrial Control 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to enable the learner to acquire a good knowledge of industrial process control systems theory and practice, including PID control and loop tuning.

  • Manufacturing Automation 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to enable the learner to apply suitable manufacturing automation strategies and technology in an industrial context and provide the learner with hands-on experience of these systems.

  • Advanced Engineering Materials 4

    Credits: 5

    To build upon the student’s knowledge of engineering materials and to bring about a more detailed technical understanding of engineering materials and their response to mechanical loads and the effects of the environment on their performance and useful life.
    To compare and contrast responses of the generic crystalline materials to that of the noncrystalline amorphous materials, and to understand the nature of the response and factors that influence such responses and their importance.
    To quantify and predict these responses to aid design using proper material selection. To understand and appreciate the failure modes pervasive in material selection for proper design.

  • Applied Thermofluids 4

    Credits: 5

    This module provides background and revision material on the concepts and equations for thermofluid flow problems. Using these concepts and associated correlations the learner will analyse various applied problems involving fluids.

What can you do after this programme?

Mechanical engineers are responsible for the design, manufacture and operation of the mechanical systems and processes that are all around us. Upon completion of this programme graduates can expect to find employment as a Graduate Engineer in high-tech manufacturing industries, mechanical industries, building services and design. Engineering graduates at this level will work in design, manufacturing and production, quality control, automation, planning logistics and supply, technical sales support with contracting and technical service industries. The course equips students with the theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical expertise demanded by leading global employers to work in this constantly evolving field.

Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programmes within TUS or elsewhere. Full details of our postgraduate programmes can be found in the Postgraduate Prospectus.

Assessment Information

At TUS Midlands we provide candidates with a set of transferable skills having a strong focus on practical experiments, problem solving and case study work. We place emphasis on candidate support and aim to provide a learning environment that is both stimulating and academically challenging, whilst also supporting your learning. You will encounter a range of teaching methods that include but are not limited to:

  • Lectures
  • Practical classes
  • Projects and case studies
  • Group work
  • Guest lectures
  • Examinations
  • Portfolio work
  • Integrated assessments

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