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Courses
Courses
Choosing a course is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make! View our courses and see what our students and lecturers have to say about the courses you are interested in at the links below.
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University Life
University Life
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About University of Galway
About University of Galway
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Colleges & Schools
Colleges & Schools
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Research & Innovation
Research & Innovation
University of Galway’s vibrant research community take on some of the most pressing challenges of our times.
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Business & Industry
Guiding Breakthrough Research at University of Galway
We explore and facilitate commercial opportunities for the research community at University of Galway, as well as facilitating industry partnership.
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Alumni & Friends
Alumni & Friends
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Community Engagement
Community Engagement
At University of Galway, we believe that the best learning takes place when you apply what you learn in a real world context. That's why many of our courses include work placements or community projects.
Science & Technology Studies (Degree)
Course Overview
The Degree in Science & Technology Studies is a part-time course which focuses on the knowledge and skill requirements of high-tech industries. The modular structure is designed with flexibility in mind, enabling students to balance study with work and other commitments and to accumulate credits over a time frame that suits their lifestyle. Learning is delivered via a blend of distance and online resources, on-campus tutorials and labs, and company-based projects.
This course aims to:
- provide students with a comprehensive grounding in the theoretical foundations of Science and Engineering
- introduce students to areas of applied and specialist knowledge found in today’s high-tech environments
- develop important managerial skills such as problem solving, decision making and advanced communication skills
Mode of Study: Blended Learning
This course has been approved by Next Level Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 40% for students whose company is a member of their network. For more information, contact:
Next Level Skillnet – Sue Davies at: sue@nextlevel.ie
Applications and Selections
Applications open from 1st April 2023.
Applications are made online via the University of Galway Applications System. This course is listed under Adult Learning & CPD Courses Application.
Please visit our How to Apply page for Application tips and Supporting Documents information.
NB: Applicants should have a Diploma at NFQ Level 7 of 90 ECTS minimum, in a Science, Engineering or Technical area, or otherwise prove that they satisfy the prerequisites of each of the modules as listed in the course outline section.
Who Teaches this Course
Requirements and Assessment
Assessment is through assignments, written exams and in some cases practical laboratory sessions. Exams take place at the end of each semester. All modules from the programme will be individually assessed.
The course is delivered by blended learning on a part-time basis. Candidates will receive learning materials in online format for each module. Materials will be specifically designed for independent study and will be supplemented by supporting reading material and interactive learning resources where appropriate. The course requires attendance on campus for approximately 10 hours per module, mainly on Saturdays.
Awards: Bachelor of Science in Science & Technology Studies - on successful completion of 20 modules or 120 ECTS.
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have a Diploma at NFQ Level 7 of 90 ECTS minimum, in a Science, Engineering or Technical area, or otherwise prove that they satisfy the prerequisites of each of the modules as listed in the course outline section.
Additional Requirements
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Duration
2-4 years
Next start date
September 2023
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
25-30
QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes
Closing Date
NFQ level
Level 8
Mode of study
Blended Learning
ECTS weighting
120
Award
CAO
Course code
Course Outline
The Degree consists of 20 modules to be completed over a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 years (see the module chart for the Diploma/Degree below). The core modules are largely in the areas of production science and operations and systems management. The elective streams will enable students to specialise and deepen their knowledge in the following areas:
- Lean & Quality Systems
- Medical Device Science
- Automation & Control
- Corporate Environmental Planning
- Regulatory Affairs
Exemptions: Applicants who have completed accredited study in a relevant area may apply for exemptions. Credit may also be granted for demonstrable experiential learning. Exemptions may be granted up to a maximum of 5 modules in the Degree cycle. Exemptions are considered by the programme board on a case-by-case basis.
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
Management roles in the following sectors: medical devices, biotechnology, scientific services, high-end and specialist manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food science etc.
Who’s Suited to This Course
The course is primarily intended to support those seeking career advancement in a variety of high tech industries such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and manufacturing. It will also appeal to those with a personal interest in Science and Technology.
Learning Outcomes
Transferable Skills Employers Value
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
€3,985 p.a. 2023/24 (€399 per module)*
Fees: Tuition
€3,845 p.a. 2023/24
Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a. 2023/24
Fees: Non EU
€4,485 p.a. 2023/24 (€449 per module + €500 p.a.)
NB: EU Fees are comprised of Tuition + Student Levy. Fees for this course are collected directly by the Centre, please see our staff listing here.
*Next Level Skillnet funding (40% fee subsidy) is available for this course. You also may be eligible for the Adult Learning Tuition Scholarship, find out more
Find out More
Course Administrator
Centre for Adult Learning and Professional Development
University of Galway
Tel: 091 494060
Email: sciencetech@universityofgalway.ie
What Our Student Say
Kenneth Loughrey | Student
The course and how it was delivered suited me, even with a family, as the workload was spread out well and you can plan the semesters ahead which means you are set up for success. The course encapsulates so much of the industry I work in and while my background is engineering, it was great to get the insight into other aspects such as regulatory affairs and to also expand my knowledge base on project management. I would recommend this course to anyone currently looking to upskill.
Declan McHugh | Graduate
I had previously attended third level education and it was always my intention to return, however financial responsibilities and lack of belief prevented me from committing. I got to a stage in my life where I finally wanted to have a new career path and be a good role model for my family. The Degree in Science and Technology studies enabled me to study whilst continuing to work full-time. I was surrounded by classmates who understood the perspectives and challenges we faced whilst the classroom and WhatsApp groups became a built-in support network. The flexibility of distance and online learning, and on-campus tutorials helped me alleviate the pressure that comes with balancing existing commitments with course work. The lecturers were very approachable and understanding which gave me the belief and confidence to complete the course and the skills learned have since allowed me to pursue a career in Quality Assurance. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wishes to pursue a new career path, qualify for a promotion, or who is trying to be more competitive in the job market.
