Course Details

Course Code(s):
PDEQSETPAD
Available:
Part-Time
Intake:
Autumn/Fall
Course Start Date:
September
Duration:
1 Year
Award:
Professional Diploma
Qualification:
NFQ Level 9 Minor Award
Faculty: Science and Engineering
Course Type: Taught, Professional/Flexible
Fees: For Information on Fees, see section below.

Contact(s):

Name: UL@Work Team
Email: ulatwork@ul.ie
Express Interest

Register your interest here for more information or to be notified when applications are open.

Brief Description

Next Intake: September 2023

A major challenge for Ireland transitioning to Industry 4.0 is the incredible complexity of delivering the skills necessary to design, develop, manage, and maintain these systems. Unlike the traditional specialised engineering roles, Equipment Systems Engineering (ESE) requires a broad range of knowledge across many engineering sectors, including programming, Information Technology Skills and Information Skills. As technology advances rapidly, the need for skilled professionals who can design and maintain complex equipment systems has never been greater.

Our Professional Diploma in Equipment Systems Engineering (ESE) will enable those in key positions within their organisations and specialising in a particular area to gain a broader knowledge of the emerging technologies and equipment changing the marketplace in our manufacturing and other sectors. This programme has been developed to enable companies to be better informed about these new technologies as they create their own Industry 4.0 strategies. These skills will allow Ireland to maintain its lead position in high-tech manufacturing and become a significant player in the emerging global manufacturing support services market. It also has applications in broader areas such as farming, construction, infrastructure development, mining, and more.

UL@Work programmes are co-designed with industry to ensure skills transfers are industry-responsive for current and future needs. Our programmes are developed for working professionals and are designed to be flexible and accessible. You can take it online and from anywhere worldwide.

As technology advances rapidly, the need for skilled professionals who can design and maintain complex equipment systems has never been greater. Our equipment systems engineering course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this exciting field.

Focusing on industry applications, our programme covers all aspects of equipment systems engineering, from design and development to installation and maintenance. You'll learn from experienced industry professionals who have worked with some of the world's leading companies, gaining valuable insights into the latest technologies and best practices.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking to take your skills to the next level, our programme is the perfect way to achieve your goals. With flexible online learning options and personalised support from our expert academic team, you'll have everything you need to succeed.

On successful completion of this programme, you will:

  • Possess a broad overview of the technologies necessary to transition to an Industry 4.0 manufacturing environment. 
  • Know how to collaborate with business stakeholders to elicit their Digitalization (digital business model) requirements. 
  • Be empowered to articulate a sound approach in enabling the introduction and exploitation of engineering technology and other relevant developments to equipment systems.
Semester 1

Disruptive Innovation Sprints
This module provides a framework to comprehensively and efficiently evaluate disruptive and sustaining innovation solutions impacting the Industry 4.0 decision-making process. Such sprints will equip you with relevant material for selecting the most appropriate technology for your SWOT. These are delivered by community of practice sessions with i4.0 Topics delivered via a flipped classroom with a live Q&A with an expert practitioner in the topic.

Automated System Design
The content will provide a broad overview of automation and mechatronics processes appropriate for management. The module examines automated and mechatronic systems at a macro level, identifying key standards associated with manufacturing processes. An introduction to Industry 4.0 and Smart manufacturing is provided in addition to an overview of industrial robots, cobots, and mobile robots (mobots).
Semester 2

Technology Trajectory Strategy 
Continuing the community of practice mode, this module will provide a framework to comprehensively and efficiently evaluate both technology platforms and systems solutions that will be used to build a company's Industry 4.0 equipment systems. You will review three key elements of the platform, the device (robot, vision, etc.), the controller (logic, motion, safety, etc.), and the operating system (Linux, Microsoft, pi, etc.) 

System Integration 
This module will introduce you to analogue and digital sensors used within a production environment for equipment systems used in manufacturing. You will also be given an overview of Boolean logic, and equipment actuators. You will also be introduced to Industry 4.0 best practices guidelines for the Equipment Procurement Process, including design, integration, validation, operations, and maintenance.

Both Semesters Future Focused Professional Portfolio 1 & 2
In the first module, you will be led through a series of talks about the future of technology, the future of markets, and the future of society as a whole. You'll work collaboratively to identify key trends impacting your role and organisation. You'll also build a professional network and use it to reach out to key thought leaders in this area.

The second module will provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate independent and self-determined learning through the creation of your own individual portfolio. Your portfolio includes various activities that will show how you've improved your reflective practice, how well you've used discipline-specific knowledge in different situations, and how you've led a discussion about the future of your field

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is this programme for?
Those who are directly or indirectly involved in implementing Industry 4.0 systems in their organisation. Process engineers and manufacturing systems engineers who are directly implementing the systems and other project team members. Organisation management will also benefit from this programme. It will give you a strong grounding in the technology, its impact, and the potential use by the organisation so that they can contribute effectively to Industry 4.0 Systems Project team.

What types of roles would working professionals who are considering this programme currently hold?
Manufacturing, processing, and industrial automation engineers. ICT and finance management roles, as well as production, operations and supply chain management roles.

What types of roles will candidates be qualified for after taking this programme?
You will have a strong knowledge and understanding of the skill set needed for the implementation of equipment systems in the organisation. You will be able to participate as an effective member of the Industry 4.0 systems project team. You will also be able to inform organisation strategy and approach to Industry 4.0 procurement, implementation and optimisation.

Is there a list of companies & industries that are the ideal fit?
Any medium to large manufacturing organisation. Diverse industry sectors, including construction, agriculture, civil engineering, mining, etc. Some relevant companies are Boston Scientific, Hollister, Regeneron, SL Controls, Johnson & Jonson, Modular Automation, and Penn Engineering.

Is there a project?
In the Technology Trajectories module you will undertake a SWOT analysis on your own organisations. At the end of each semester learners will participate in the multidisciplinary Digital Futures Labs.

How is the learning applied?
You will apply the learning to their own organisation and produce “Industry 4.0 Equipment Systems SWOT analysis”, that will feed into the organisation strategy and proof of principle.

What software/programmes will we be using? 
You will need company support and access to key data and strategy materials related to the Industry 4.0 plans of the company. 

Applicants are normally expected to hold a primary honours degree in an Engineering/Technical discipline or equivalent and have at least 3 years of relevant industry experience.

Alternative Entry Route:

In accordance with the University's policy on the Recognition of Prior Learning, candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria may be considered.

What to Include with your Application

  • Qualification transcripts and certificates
  • A copy of your birth certificate or passport
  • If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice. If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:
  • English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
    AND English language competency certificate
    For more information Click Here

EU - €3500 per annum

Non EU - €4750 per annum

Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the Student Fees Office website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie.)

Please click here for information on funding and scholarships.