Automotive Technology - Higher Certificate in Engineering
Program Overview
This Higher Certificate in Engineering in Automotive Technology equips students with a blend of technological, business, and management skills in the automotive/transport industry. Graduates gain expertise in vehicle systems, engineering principles, and industry management. They can pursue careers as technicians, managers, and other professionals in the automotive sector, or continue their education in engineering at a higher level.
Program Outline
Automotive Technology – Higher Certificate in Engineering
Degree Overview:
This program offers students a combination of technological, business, and management skills specifically related to the automotive/transport industry. Graduates will develop the necessary competency to become technicians and managers in today's automotive and transport industry. Transportation technology is identified as a key issue in maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of the economy.
- Automobile Electrics & Electronics I (Credits: 10): Introduces the fundamentals of electricity and automotive electrical and electronic systems.
- Automobile Engineering and Vehicle Technology 1 (Credits: 15): Introduces the basics of motor vehicle systems and the principles involved in their operation.
- Computer Aided Design (Automobile Engineering) (Credits: 5): Provides a comprehensive introduction to the standards used in the preparation of Engineering drawings. Students will use 2D and 3D CAD software to prepare a portfolio of their work. Learners will acquire general computing skills and competencies, including formal report writing, generating engineering data, producing equations, data analysis, and data presentation.
- Motor Vehicle Retail Management 1 (Credits: 5): Provides an introduction to the theoretical and practical aspects of managing in a motor vehicle retailer. Covers topics like Managing People, Business Communication, Marketing, Accounting and Finance, and relates them to franchised dealerships. Assessment includes a group presentation.
Year 2:
- Automobile Electrics & Electronics II (Credits: 15): Develops the learner's knowledge of automotive electrical and electronic components and systems.
- Automobile Engineering and Vehicle Technology 2 (Credits: 10): Advances the learner's knowledge of motor vehicle systems, construction, and design.
- Automotive Engineering Mathematics (Credits: 10): Covers mathematical topics relevant to automobile technicians and road transport technology learners. Builds upon the basic principles covered in Introduction to Mechanical Engineering Maths (Year 1). Topics include areas, volumes, irregular shapes, trigonometry, waveform sketching, differentiation, and graphical analysis. Practical problems in relation to automotive engineering are given throughout the module.
- Computing, Automotive (Credits: 5): Aims to have students demonstrate an understanding of some practical applications of computers in the Automotive, Transport, and Agricultural Industries.
- Motor Vehicle Retail Management 2 (Credits: 10): Emphasizes the management/business/administrative aspect of the Service Manager's job. Covers service department work-related areas such as Workshop Loading and Control, Workshop Efficiency and Productivity, Workshop Layout, Warranty Administration, Customer Service Process, etc. Also covers the work of the Dealer Principal, the Parts Sales and Vehicle Sales departments. Includes coverage of legal issues of particular relevance to the retail motor dealer.
- Vehicle Science (Credits: 10): Expands the learner's knowledge of engineering statics, dynamics, forces, hydraulics, and materials testing, allowing them to apply this knowledge to motor vehicle problems.
Careers:
- Positions that graduates have worked in include:
- Automotive Service Technician
- Service Manager
- Parts Manager
- Warranty Manager
- Auto Electrics Technician
- Technical Salesman
- Technical Sales Representative
- Motor Vehicle Technician
- Successful graduates can apply for membership to:
- The Institute of Road Transport Engineering
- The Institute of the Motor Industry (UK)
- They will be awarded ‘Certified Automotive Engineer’ status (CAE).
Further Study:
- Successful graduates of this program may continue onto a Level 7 B.Eng. in Road Transport Technology & Management or other suitable Level 7 engineering.
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)
Overview:
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is a multi-campus university in Ireland, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its focus on applied learning and innovation, fostering strong industry ties and providing excellent employment opportunities for its graduates.
Services Offered:
TUS provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Admissions & Support:
Admissions guidance, international student support, open days, student finance information, induction programs, and student support services.Campus Life:
Accommodation options, career and employability services, chaplaincy and pastoral care, disability supports, learning support, student counselling, student health services, sports facilities, student union, clubs and societies.Faculty Areas:
Business, Hospitality & Humanities, Engineering, Built Environment & Informatics, Sciences, Health & Technology, and Limerick School of Art & Design.Student Life and Campus Experience:
TUS prioritizes a student-first approach, offering small class sizes and personalized attention. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities. The university also provides comprehensive support services to ensure a positive and enriching student experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Applied Learning & Innovation:
TUS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers.Strong Industry Ties:
The university has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities.Excellent Employment Opportunities:
TUS graduates are highly sought after by employers, with a strong track record of successful career outcomes.Vibrant Campus Life:
Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities.Comprehensive Support Services:
TUS provides a wide range of support services to ensure students' academic and personal success.Academic Programs:
TUS offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
Programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, technology, art, and design.Postgraduate:
Master's and PhD programs in specialized fields.Apprenticeships:
Programs in various trades and technical fields.Flexible & Professional Learning:
Programs designed for working professionals.Other:
TUS is a QS 5 Star Rated University, recognized for its high-quality education and research. The university is also actively involved in research and development, with a focus on areas of national and global importance.
Entry Requirements:
- Leaving Certificate: A minimum of 5 O6/H7 grades in Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English or Irish.
- Mature Applicants: Candidates applying as mature applicants may be required to attend an interview and may be requested to take an aptitude test to prove their suitability for a place on this programme.
- Level 6 Craft Certificate (Trade), National/Higher Certificate: Candidates who hold a Senior Trade Certificate and/or National Craft Certificate or holders of a National/Higher Certificate (Level 6) in Engineering or Technology may be considered for admission to Year 2 of this programme. You should familiarise yourself with visa processing times for your country of origin to ensure you make a timely application. Find out more here.
