HDip Spectroscopic Technologies & Data Analysis for Advanced Manufact
Program Overview
This 60-credit Higher Diploma in Spectroscopic Technologies & Data Analysis empowers STEM graduates with advanced skills in data analysis, automation, and analytical technologies essential for advanced manufacturing. Delivered through a flexible blended approach, the program equips students for careers in food, pharmaceutical, and materials manufacturing industries. Hands-on laboratory experiences train students in state-of-the-art spectroscopic technologies, making them highly sought-after in the workforce.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This Higher Diploma in Spectroscopic Technologies & Data Analysis for Advanced Manufacturing is a 60-credit program designed for STEM graduates seeking to upskill or return to the workplace, or those already working who want to develop advanced skills in this field. The program aims to future-proof graduates with skills in emerging technologies relevant to advanced manufacturing industries, including bioprocessing, biomaterial, chemical, and food processing. The program addresses the national need for advanced spectroscopic technologies and digital skills. It equips students with skills in data analysis, sensors, automation, and analytical technologies, which are crucial for the competitiveness of Irish industry. It addresses priority skills needs for enterprise, including Advanced Spectroscopy, Good Manufacturing Practice, Quality Management, Analytical Science, Industrial Instrumentation, Calibration, Statistics, Data Analytics, Big Data, Smart Manufacturing IOT, and Industry 4.0.
Outline:
The Diploma comprises 60 credits spread across 11 modules, offered over the Spring and Autumn Trimesters.
- Delivery: Lectures and tutorials occur during weekdays. Remote lectures and labs are available for those who cannot attend in person. Modules are delivered in real-time to full-time students and made available online (in real-time and via recordings) to off-site learners.
- Structure: The program has a flexible, blended approach:
- Core teaching materials are available online through Brightspace.
- Synchronous engagement, using a flipped classroom or tutorial approach, is available in class with live/recorded broadcast using a virtual classroom.
- Discussion boards through Brightspace provide rapid response support for online students.
- Laboratory practical sessions on campus are delivered in blocks of 3 hours, scheduled in advance.
Assessment:
Assessment is through a mix of problem-based activities designed to evaluate module-specific outcomes, with at least 3 outcomes contributing to each of the program outcomes. Written examinations will not exceed 50% weighting, and practical-based assessments will exceed 25% weighting.
Teaching:
- Methods: The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online and in-person components. This includes:
- Online learning materials through Brightspace.
- Synchronous engagement through flipped classrooms and tutorials.
- Discussion boards for online support.
- On-campus laboratory practical sessions.
- Faculty: Modules are offered across three Schools in the UCD College of Engineering and Architecture, drawing on expertise from various disciplines.
- Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a practical, hands-on approach, with laboratory sessions providing real-world experience in spectroscopic technologies.
Careers:
Graduates with skills in Advanced Spectroscopy, Analytical Science, Instrumentation, Calibration, and Data Analytics are highly sought after in the food/pharmaceutical/materials manufacturing industries. Job readiness is embedded in the program through both credit-bearing and non-credit-bearing modules.
Other:
- The program is suitable for those who are working, as the content is delivered approximately 70% online.
- The flexible delivery allows workers to manage their learning around their work hours.
- The School of Biosystems & Food Engineering has invested over €1.5M in state-of-the-art facilities in sensors, spectroscopy, and spectral imaging.
- The program offers hands-on experience in a range of novel spectroscopic technologies, training in state-of-the-art labs.
EU fee per year - € 8730 nonEU fee per year - € 13780
Entry Requirements:
Applicants should hold a 2.2 or higher honours degree (NFQ Level 8 or International equivalent) in a STEM subject. Other disciplines and holders of Certificate and Diploma qualifications will be considered subject to an application detailing suitable mathematical, technological, and analytical skills, particularly if these can be demonstrated by experience in a relevant industrial/work environment. Applicants will be initially screened to confirm that they satisfy the HCI Pillar 1 eligibility requirements; following this, their eligibility for the programme in terms of their educational record, skills and motivation will be assessed via CV and letter of motivation. Should more than 20 students be eligible, at this point a ranking will be carried out based on the CV and letter of motivation. A dedicated programme administrator will be assigned to review the applications.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.