This programme is designed to meet the demand for qualified graduates with a solid foundation in polymer and mechanical engineering, with a focus on polymer engineering technologies and processes. This course offers the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities and to be recruited by companies around the world. The polymer/medical devices sector in Ireland is thriving and is recognised as one of the fastest developing in the world. In excess of 250 companies are currently developing and manufacturing a diverse range of medical devices and diagnostic products. The sector employs a highly skilled workforce – over 45% of employees in the medical device sector are qualified to graduate or postgraduate level.
The student is required to complete a six-month placement from January to June in the third year of the programme. The placement carries 30 credits and most fulfil prescribed criteria, to which the employer will agree in advance. Placements may be done in Ireland or abroad. Placements are readily available across the medical devices, pharmaceutical and broader advanced manufacturing sectors. Companies include: Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Harmac, Trend, Bausch and Lomb.
On this course you will;
Apply core polymer engineering principles to the design and development of polymer products and medical device components.
Have the opportunity to undertake a six month paid work placement, commencing January of Year 3. The placement will facilitate you in gaining an insight into industrial practices in your area of specialisation (for example polymer processing, validation, risk assessments).
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.
- Operate high-end technical engineering equipment in our cutting-edge engineering laboratories.
- Develop the ability to critically appraise mechanical engineering systems, to identify area of potential improvement, to bring about corrective action and where applicable, to suggest and implement an alternative solution.
- Learn about environmental loadings of processes/plants and be committed to its reduction, either in terms of the product, the materials or the process.
- Improve your teamwork and communications skills by working as part of small teams on problem-solving and projects.
- Develop an ethical awareness with regard to the engineering profession and environment.
- Gain valuable work experience in 3rd year by completing a 4 month work placement, and in 4th year an industry-based project.