AIT undergraduate prospectus 2012-13 by Athlone Institute of Technology

Athlone Institute of Technology

Institiúid Teicneolaíochta Bhaile Átha Luain Bóthar Bhaile Átha Cliath Baile Átha Luain Co na hIarmhí Éire Athlone Institute of Technology Dublin Road Athlone Co Westmeath Ireland T: + 353 (0)90 646 8000 F: + 353 (0)90 646 8148 W: www.ait.ie

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus 2012/2013

Investing in your future

Undergraduate Prospectus

2012/2013

Athlone Institute of Technology

Undergraduate Prospectus 2012/2013

10 Top Reasons to Choose AIT 1

AIT Graduates Continue to Enjoy Excellent Prospects

According to the 2010 AIT graduate survey, just 13% of graduates were seeking employment six months after completing their studies. One-quarter of honours degree graduates reported earning starting salaries of up to €21,000.

Large Number of Internships

A large number of AIT’s programmes feature internships or practice placements, which give students an ideal opportunity to put into practice the material they are learning in the lecture theatre, while simultaneously building relationships with potential employers.

Postgraduate Study Opportunities

One-quarter of AIT’s honours degree graduates now progress to postgraduate study. AIT has a wide range of taught and research-based Master’s degrees across all schools and disciplines.

More People Complete their Studies at AIT

Some 89% of honours degree students complete their degree at AIT, on a par with some universities and better than many other institutes of technology. This highlights the range of support measures which are in place in Athlone.

Dedicated PASS Support Scheme for First-Years

First-years at AIT undertake the PASS (Peer Assisted Student Support) scheme that offers cross-year support between students on the same programme. PASS helps first year students quickly adjust to college life, improves their learning and study skills, enhances their understanding of the subject matter of their programmes and helps them prepare better for assignments and exams.

A World of International Linkages

AIT has established relationships with 230 third level institutions around the world, while 11% of the full-time student body comes from overseas. AIT students have the option of spending a semester in cities as diverse as New York, Beijing and Emden, to mention just three.

Support for Research and Innovation

According to Enterprise Ireland, AIT is in the top three higher education institutions in Ireland, in terms of the number of innovation voucher projects completed, with 126 collaborative projects concluded or currently underway. AIT has a proven track record in securing research funding and received more than €23 million since 2000.

Large Number of Mature Students

Almost one-third of first years who entered AIT in September 2010 were mature students. Dedicated support mechanisms are in place to assist matures make the transition to third level, while a Mature Student Society provides a social outlet.

An Attractive Modern Campus

More than €100 million has been invested in AIT’s infrastructure and campus since 2000. The most recent projects to be completed are the Engineering and Informatics Building (€36m), the Research Hub (€2m) and the FIFA astro-turf pitch and IAAF-approved athletics track (€2m). Construction work is currently underway on a new indoor sporting arena (€10m), which is due to be completed by June 2012.

A Sporting Hub

AIT has invested substantially in its sporting infrastructure in recent years and is currently making significant additions to its facilities. This has attracted the full gamut of sporting bodies to the institute’s facilities for competition and training purposes; including the HSE Community Games, Athletics Ireland, the FAI, the IRFU, the GAA, the Irish Amateur Boxing Association; to mention just a few.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Clรกranna Nua New Programmes CAO code Programme

Page

AL 836

BSc (Hons) in Health Science and Nutrition

224

AL 837

BSc (Hons) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology

201

AL 838

BSc (Hons) in Biotechnology

197

AL 839

BSc (Hons) in Human and Animal Toxicology

195

AL 732

BSc in Environmental Toxicology

186

AL 733

BSc in Forensic Toxicology

185

AL 734

BSc in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Development and Analysis)

193

Clรกr ร bhair Contents Welcome from the President About Athlone and the Midlands

4 8

About AIT

About our Programmes

College Life

Fees, Grants and Maintenance

Student Supports

Learning Supports

International Profile

Entry/Admission Supports

Applying to AIT

Registration and Progression

Foundation Programmes

Business School

School of Engineering

School of Humanities

132

School of Science

176

Useful Contacts

230

Glossary

231

Index

233

Note The information contained in this prospectus is intended as a guide for persons seeking admission to the institute and shall not be deemed to constitute a contract or the terms thereof between the institute and a student or any third party. The institute reserves the right to cancel, suspend or modify in any way the matters contained in this publication. The institute reserves the right to amend the list of elective modules being offered for any programme. Athlone Institute of Technology will observe its obligations under Section 43 of the Qualifications (Education & Training Act) 1999 and will be mindful of the optimum use of public monies in exercising its right to withdraw or modify courses at any time.

2012/2013

Welcome to AIT and to our undergraduate prospectus for 2012/13.

The fact that you are reading this book – and probably other publications like it – says that you are making some very serious decisions about your future. Decisions that will impact in a major way on the next few years of your life; but more than that, will shape your career and your prospects for many years to come. One of the key words in all of this is ‘choice’. You have to choose what type of career you would like; based on what you enjoy doing, what you are good at, and where you think the employment prospects are. You have to choose courses that you believe will help you enter that career path. And, you have to choose a college that you think is the best for you.

Fáilte ón Uachtarán Welcome from the President 4

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

That’s a lot of information to absorb and to digest. I hope that this prospectus and, indeed, any engagement which you might have with AIT helps you in making the best decision for you. Throughout the prospectus we have highlighted relevant information about each course, what you will be studying, what further study opportunities are available, and ultimately what career paths are likely after each programme. We have included profiles of current and past students, so that you can read about their experiences.

Third level is about much more than the formal academic qualification you gain. It is about the wider experience, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, trying new things. In this, our world-class facilities, expertise in teaching and research, placement opportunities and our international campus, give you a fully rounded college experience. Over the past four decades, thousands of students have come through AIT’s halls. Whether they graduated in times of recession or prosperity, their qualification provided them with a passport to a brighter future. That opportunity is with you now. I wish you every success in making your college choices and wish to reiterate that our team is there to help you in any way we can.

Beir bua.

Fáilte chuig AIT agus chuig ár réamheolaire d’fhochéimithe 2012/13. Ós rud é go bhfuil tú ag léamh an leabhair seo – agus cinn eile den chineál céanna, is dócha – bhuel, ciallaíonn sin go bhfuil tú i mbun socruithe an-tromchúiseacha ar fad a dhéanamh maidir le do thodhchaí. Rachaidh na socruithe céanna i bhfeidhm go mór mhór ar na blianta beaga seo de do shaol atá amach romhat; ach níos tábhachtaí arís, múnlóidh siad do shlí ghairme agus d’ionchas oibre ar feadh na mblianta fada. Ceann de na príomhfhocail a bhaineann leis an gcomhthéacs seo ar fad ná ‘rogha’. Ní mór duit rogha a dhéanamh maidir le cén cineál gairme ba mhaith leat a bheith agat; agus sin bunaithe ar a mbaineann tú taitneamh as, na rudaí sin a bhfuil scil agat iontu, agus an cineál ionchais fhostaíochta a síleann tú a bheith agat. Ní mór duit cúrsaí a roghnú a gcreideann tú go mbeidh siad ina gcabhair agat le tosú amach sa tslí ghairme sin. Agus ní mór duit an ollscoil sin a roghnú is fearr a oireann duit.

Le daichead bliain anuas, rinne na mílte duine staidéar i hallaí AIT. Cé acu ar bronnadh céim orthu i ré an chúlaithe eacnamúil nó an rathúnais, ba í an cháilíocht a fuair siad an eochair a d’oscail an doras chuig todhchaí níos fearr. Tá an deis chéanna agatsa anois. Guím gach rath ort agus tú ag déanamh socruithe maidir leis an ollscoil, agus is mian liom cur i gcuimhne duit go bhfuil ár bhfoireann ar fáil le cabhrú leat ar aon bhealach is féidir linn.

Beir bua.

An tOllamh Ciarán Ó Catháin

Sin cuid mhór fhaisnéise nach mór duit á léamh agus á tuiscint.

Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin

Tá súil agam go mbeidh an réamheolaire seo, agus leoga, aon teagmháil a bhíonn agat le hAIT, ina chabhair duit leis an socrú a dhéanamh is fearr a oireann duit. Ar fud an réamheolaire seo chuireamar béim ar an bhfaisnéis sin a bhaineann le hábhar do gach cúrsa, ar a mbeidh á staidéar agat, ar na deiseanna breise staidéir atá ar fáil, agus sa deireadh thiar thall ar na slite gairme sin ar dócha go mbeidh siad ar fáil agat tar éis gach cláir. Chuimsíomar próifílí de mhic léinn reatha agus d’iarmhic léinn d’ár gcuid, le gur féidir leat léamh faoin taithí a bhí acusan. Tá i bhfad níos mó i gceist leis an tríú leibhéal ná an cháilíocht acadúil fhoirmeálta a bhainfidh tú amach. Tá i gceist freisin an taithí níos forleithne, ag bualadh le daoine nua, ag cur aithne ar chultúir nua, ag baint triail as rudaí nua. Sa mhéid sin, gheobhaidh tú taithí ollscoile an-chuimsitheach ar fad de thairbhe ár gcuid áiseanna den scoth, ár saineolais ó thaobh teagaisc agus taighde de, ár gcuid deiseanna socrúcháin, agus ár gcampais idirnáisiúnta.

2012/2013

‫ وعلى‬،‫يسر معهد آثلون للتكنولوجيا أن يعرفكم على منشآته ومرافقه‬ ‫وعلى‬ ‫قائمة منشآته‬ ‫يعرفكم على‬ ‫للتكنولوجيا أن‬ ‫آثلون‬ ‫اخلدماتمعهد‬ ‫يسر‬ ‫ في‬،‫ومرافقه‬ ‫بالبرامج املتاحة‬ ‫يسره توفير‬ ‫ كما‬،‫للطالب‬ ‫املقدمة‬ ‫املتاحة في‬ ‫يسره‬.2012/2013 ‫ كما‬،‫املقدمة للطالب‬ ‫اخلدمات‬ ‫بالبرامجما يثير‬ ‫قائمة بالتأكيد‬ ‫توفيرجتدون‬ ‫وسوف‬ ‫الدراسي‬ ‫العام‬ ‫يثير‬ ‫ما‬ ‫بالتأكيد‬ ‫جتدون‬ ‫وسوف‬ .2012/2013 ‫الدراسي‬ ‫العام‬ ‫اهتمامكم ويساعدكم على إحراز التقدم في مستقبلك العملي ضمن‬ ‫العمليفيضمن‬ ‫التقدم في‬ ‫ويساعدكم على‬ ‫هذهاهتمامكم‬ ‫العام‬ ‫مستقبلكاملعهد‬ ‫الدارسني في‬ ‫إحرازضمن‬ ‫الترحيب بكم‬ ‫ نتمنى‬.‫البرامج‬ ‫الترحيب بكم ضمن الدارسني في املعهد في العام‬ ‫ نتمنى‬.‫البرامج‬ ‫هذه‬ .2012/2013 ‫الدراسي‬ .2012/2013 ‫الدراسي‬ 阿斯隆理工学院很荣幸向您介绍本学院的建筑和设阿斯隆理工学院很荣幸向您介绍本学院的建筑和设施、为学生提供的各项服务，以及 2012/2013 学年施、为学生提供的各项服务，以及 2012/2013 学年相关课程的说明。这些课程将帮助您取得事业上的相关课程的说明。这些课程将帮助您取得事业上的进展，我们相信您会对其中某项课程感兴趣。真诚进展，我们相信您会对其中某项课程感兴趣。真诚欢迎您在2012/2013 学年就读本学院。欢迎您在2012/2013 学年就读本学院。

Fáilte Welcome 6

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Athlone Institute of Technology er glad for at give generelle oplysninger om Instituttet og om faciliteter og servicer som bliver tilbudt de studerende. Vi giver også oplysninger om programmer som bliver tilbudt i løbet af 2012/2013. Vi håber at du finder et kursus der interesserer dig og som hjælper dig i din karriere og vi glæder os til at byde dig velkommen i Instituttet i løbet at det akademiske år 2012/2013. Het Technolgish Instituut van Athlone biedt U graag alle algemene informatie aan omtrent het Instituut en over de middelen en diensten waarvan de studenten kunnen genieten, evenals een beschrijving van alle programma’s die worden aangeboden gedurende 2012/2013. Wij hopen dat U een leerprogramma vindt dat U interesseert en dat uw carriere ondersteunt en we zien er dan ook naar uit U te verwelkomen gedurende het academisch jaar van 2012/2013. Athlone Institute of Technology instituutilla on ilo esitellä itsensä perustiedoin ja antaen tietoja opiskelijoille tarjoamistaan tiloista ja palveluista sekä lukuvuoden 2012/2013 aikana tarjottavien ohjelmien pääpiirteistä. Toivomme että löydätte teitä kiinnostavan ja uraodotuksianne vastaavan kurssin, sekä odotamme voivamme toivottaa teidät tervetulleeksi instituuttiin akateemisena lukuvuotena 2012/2013.

L’institut Universitaire de Technologie d’Athlone a le plaisir de vous présenter ses locaux et équipement, les services offerts aux étudiants, ainsi qu’un descriptif des programmes disponibles en 2012/2013. Vous y trouverez sans doute un programme qui vous intéressera et qui vous aidera à progresser dans votre carrière. Nous espérons vous accueillir à l’institut pour l’année académique 2012/2013. Das Institute of Technology in Athlone freut sich, Ihnen allgemeine Informationen über das Institut und dessen Möglichkeiten und Angebote für Studenten sowie einen Überblick über das Kursangebot im Jahr 2012/2013 zu präsentieren. Wir hoffen, daß Sie einen Kurs finden, der Sie interessiert und Ihr Karrierestreben unterstützt, und wir freuen uns, Sie im akademischen Jahr 2012/2013 willkommen heißen zu dürfen. Το Ινστιτούτο Τεχνολογίας του Αθλον θα χαρεί να σας ενημερώσει σχετικά με τους χώρους, τις υπηρεσίες και τα προγράμματα σπουδών που προσφέρει στους σπουδαστές για το ακαδημαϊκό έτος 2012/2013. Πιστεύουμε ότι θα βρείτε προγράμματα σπουδών που θα σας ενδιαφέρουν και που θα στηρίξουν τις επαγγελματικές σας φιλοδοξίες. Σας προσκαλούμε και θα χαρούμε να σας καλωσορίσουμε στο Ινστιτούτο μας για το ακαδημαϊκό έτος 2012/2013,

και είμαστε βέβαιοι ότι η επιλογή σας να σπουδάσετε στο Ινστιτούτο μας θα είναι από τις καλύτερες που έχετε ποτέ πάρει. L’Istituto di Tecnologia di Athlone e’ lieta di fornire informazioni generali riguardanti Istituto stesso, le strutture e servizi offerti agli studenti cosi’ come di pubblicare I programmi disponibili per l’anno 2012/2013. Speriamo che lei trovi un corso di suo interesse che la aiuti con le sue aspirazioni di carriera e aspettiamo con ansia di darle il benvenuto presso l’istituto per l’anno accademico 2012/2013. Athlone Institute of Technology har gleden av å presentere generell informasjon om skolen, fasilitetene og tjenestene som tilbys studentene, samt en beskrivelse av de ulike studieprogrammene for 2012/2013. Vi håper at du vil finne et studieopplegg som interesserer deg og tilsvarer den utdannelsen du ønsker å oppnå. Vi ser fram til å kunne ønske deg velkommen til ditt studieopphold ved Athlone i det akademiske året 2012/2013. O Instituto de Tecnologia Athlone tem o prazer de apresentar informações gerais do Instituto e das facilidades e serviços oferecidos aos estudantes, e também delinear os programas a serem oferecidos durante os anos de 2012/2013. Nós

acreditamos que você encontrará um curso que seja de seu interesse e que lhe ajude em suas aspirações profissionais. Nós estamos esperando anciosamente para lhe dar boasvindas ao Instituto durante o ano acadêmico de 2012/2013. El Instituto de Tecnología de Athlone tiene el placer de presentar información general sobre el Instituto y las facilidades y servicios que ofrece a los estudiantes, además de un resúmen de los programas que van a ser ofrecidos durante el 2012/2013. Esperamos que encuentre algún curso que sea de su interés y que apoye sus aspiraciones profesionales. Deseamos ansiosamente poder darle la bienvenida al Instituto durante el año académico 2012/2013. Athlones Teknologiska Institut vill härmed presentera information om Institutet i allmänhet och de resurser och tjänster som erbjuds till studenter, och även en översikt av de program som erbjuds under året 2012/2013. Vi hoppas att du hittar en kurs som intresserar dig och främjar ditt val av karriär, och vi ser fram emot att välkomna dig till Institutet under läsåret 2012/2013.

2012/2013

Athlone, located at the heart of Ireland, is one of the largest inland towns in the country, with a population of some 25,000 people. Easily accessible from most parts of Ireland, it is well-serviced by public transport and improvements in the national road network, and is situated on the M6 motorway from Dublin to Galway.

Faoi Bhaile Átha Luain agus an Réigiún Lár na Tíre About Athlone and the Midlands 8

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

A wide range of amenities and services are available within a 30-kilometre radius of Athlone town. Athlone is an ideal destination for water enthusiasts who may participate in rowing, sailing, cruising, wind surfing, fishing and canoeing on the Shannon and nearby Lough Ree. Cycling, driving and walking trails have also been developed in recent years. Leisure facilities in the area include golf, horse-riding and racing, hunting, tennis, scuba-diving, rowing, sailing, hockey, camogie, rugby, soccer and Gaelic games. Indoor facilities and activities include gyms, swimming pools, bowling, badminton, snooker/pool, indoor soccer, arts, drama and musical societies. The local rugby club, Buccaneers, plays in the All-Ireland League Division 1B and their home, Dubarry Park, has been home for all of Ireland’s under-20 rugby internationals since 2006. Soccer club, Athlone Town, plays in the Airtricity League First Division, and their new stadium was officially opened in 2007. Athlone Regional Sports Centre incorporates a 25-metre heated swimming pool, a fully-equipped fitness suite, a sports hall and an astro-turf pitch. Athlone is a busy and prosperous town with an abundance of interesting tourist attractions and excellent restaurants catering for all tastes. The Left Bank area of town has retained much of its old-world character and is currently being revitalised by an extensive renovation programme. The town has been the location of the All-Ireland Amateur

Drama Festival for more than fifty years and the town’s various theatres offer on-going programmes of entertainment. Athlone has an excellent and modern commercial and industrial base and employers in the town include Élan, Ericsson, Covidien, Utah Medical, Lund International, M&C Specialties, IO Systems, Athlone Extrusions, Vitabond, One Direct, AXA Insurance, Innocol, Teleflex and KCI Medical. The town is also the regional centre for Enterprise Ireland, the IDA, FÁS and the Defence Forces, as well as the Department of Education and Skills. Recent months have seen further job announcements for the town, including international market research company NPD (80 jobs), medical device company American Medical Systems Holdings (50 jobs), software engineering giant Ericsson (100 jobs) and mobile software solution company WPA Mobile (40 jobs). AIT has been a factor in attracting many of these industries to the town. With its combined population of over 6,000 staff and students, it is an important contributor to the well-being of the regional economy.

Athlone offers a treasure of interesting familyowned, national and international shops from which to choose. The Athlone Town Centre is the largest shopping and leisure centre outside of Dublin, while the Golden Island Shopping Centre, which is located less than two kilometres from the institute, offers a blend of quality stores and a multi-screen cinema complex. Historically, Athlone and the Midlands played a very significant role in the development of Ireland’s intellectual heritage. The town is located not far from the famous early Christian monastery and university of Clonmacnoise which established the tradition of learning and scholarship in the Midlands. In the seventeenth century the Midlands experienced the first impact of new scientific learning when Richard Heaton, the father of Irish botany, carried out his fieldwork in Offaly and north Tipperary, and Miles Symner, mathematician and engineer, modernised the fortifications of Athlone. The leading astronomer of the nineteenth century, the third Earl of Rosse, constructed the largest telescope in the world at nearby Birr, Co Offaly. His son, Charles Parsons, was the inventor of the steam turbine and a cousin,

Mary Ward, was one of the first Irish women scientists of distinction. Another native of Co Offaly, John Joly, gained renown as a physicist, engineer and geologist. In the twentieth century John Desmond Bernal, the Nenagh-born physicist, was both a fellow of the Royal Society and a Lenin prizewinner. Athlone Institute of Technology, as the first full-scale third-level educational institution in the Midlands, has built on and developed this considerable tradition of learning and technology. More information on Athlone can be found at www.athlone.ie

2012/2013

Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) is the only higher education institution in the Midlands of Ireland. Established in 1970, it has expanded in size, scope and influence over the period. There are some 6,000 full-time and part-time students in AIT studying a broad range of courses offered by the institute’s four schools of business, engineering, humanities and science. Programmes are available at undergraduate and postgraduate level. More than €100 million has been invested in AIT’s campus since 2000, with a new Engineering and Informatics Building opening in September 2010. A new research hub also opened recently, while the institute’s new track and field facilities are garnering considerable acclaim. A new indoor sporting arena is currently under construction and will be completed by June 2012. Extensive off-campus modern student accommodation is available within walking distance of the institute. These developments have mirrored the growth of AIT and are assessed by the Students’ Union to ensure that the interests of students are fully represented.

Faoi Institiúid Teicneolaíochta Bhaile Átha Luain About Athlone Institute of Technology 10

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Why Athlone Institute of Technology? Where to study is a big question for anybody considering a course of study. Why pick Athlone if you want to go to college? Why pick an institute of technology? Here are some facts to help you decide… n A qualification from AIT is a major boost

to your career prospects, both in terms of the quality of employment you secure and the salary you earn. n Courses have a strong practical element,

with many involving placements, giving you the opportunity to gain practical experience of the workplace while studying. n Students may obtain a qualification in

many study areas at AIT – in easy steps through higher certificate, ordinary degree and on to honours degree, using the ‘ladder’ system, or taking a more direct route with an ab initio degree.

n Class groups are small, allowing

for greater individual attention. n Athlone is cheaper and safer to live

in than the bigger cities/towns. n Travel time to college is shorter. n AIT promotes diversity, has increasing

numbers of foreign students, an international society and many links with Europe. n AIT was the first institute of technology

in the country to introduce student services and has an integrated team of professionals to help students reach their potential. n Students with disabilities receive extra

attention at AIT and benefit from a dedicated liaison officer and support service. AIT has won numerous awards for the quality of its service to students with disabilities.

The institute organises a comprehensive programme of school visits and information events. Amongst the services provided are:

Getting to/from the institute

n School visits: institute representatives

Bus Services

are delighted to visit schools to talk to students about AIT and to answer any questions which may be raised. Detailed talks on individual courses and disciplines may also be organised. n Student for a day: students are welcome

to visit and join classes for a day (by prior arrangement). n Participation in careers exhibitions/fairs. n Information sessions for school principals

and guidance counsellors. If you wish to request a school visit or require further information, please contact the Schools’ Liaison Officer, (mobile: 087 167 9059, telephone: 090 647 1883 and email: schoolsliaison@ait.ie).

Schools’ Liaison Office

Open Days

Our Schools’ Liaison Office has a major role to play in strengthening links between AIT and second level schools/colleges. For prospective students, considering options at third level education can be challenging. The Schools’ Liaison Officer and institute staff provide a welcoming and friendly service to make the transition from second to third level education as stress-free as possible.

There are few better ways of finding out about a college than by visiting the campus and talking to lecturers and students. Open days on Friday and Saturday, 11 and 12 November 2011, provide an ideal opportunity for students, parents and teachers to learn more about what AIT has to offer. There are lots of practical demonstrations, talks, literature and exhibits to experience. Plus you get to ask questions and see what life is like in AIT. A further information evening for mature students will be held on 19 January 2012.

Private and public bus services operate to, from and within Athlone. A local service exists within the town environs, which connects the institute to the town. Bus Éireann and a number of private companies operate local and national commuter services, a number of which have a pick-up point at the institute. A daily Bus Éireann service operates from Athlone to Dublin and Galway and connections are made with the main centres throughout the country including: Ballina, Westport, Sligo, Derry, Belfast, Dundalk, Waterford, Cork, Tralee and Limerick. There are numerous (daily) direct-link coach services from Athlone to Dublin Airport and also to Shannon Airport (via Galway).

Train Services Athlone is also easily accessible by rail as it is on the main Dublin-Galway, Dublin-Westport and Dublin-Ballina lines. It is serviced by over twenty trains per day (Monday-Saturday) and by approximately 14 trains on a Sunday. [For further information visit: www.buseireann.ie, www.irishrail.ie, www.citylink.ie and www.athlone.ie]

2012/2013

When you apply to AIT you will note that many of our programmes are available through two modes of delivery: the ladder system or the ab initio route. The ladder system, also referred to as add-on, describes where you can progress from one qualification to a higher-level award. For example, if you obtain a higher certificate (Level 6), you may progress to an ‘add-on’ ordinary Bachelor’s degree (Level 7) and subsequently to an honours Bachelor’s degree (Level 8). The levels refer to the standing of the award on the National Framework of Qualifications. The ladder system gives you considerable flexibility to take time out between qualifications to work, and to move between one institution and another as you climb the ladder, and to choose between different specialisations in your chosen area of sudy. The diagram below shows how the ‘ladder’ system of qualifications operates at AIT. Progression charts for specific courses within each school are provided throughout this prospectus. The alternative path toward obtaining a qualification is known as ab initio. This is the Latin for ‘from the beginning’. It describes programmes which allow you to progress directly to award stage. For example, if you undertake an ab initio (honours) Bachelor’s degree, you receive that qualification on successful completion of the relevant three or four-year programme.

Faoi ár gCúrsaí About our Programmes 12

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Many of the courses at the institute are offered under different learning modes. These include: full-time, part-time, ACCS, open learning and distance learning.

Award Titles A parallel system of referring to awards is in place: one refers to the level of the award, while the other is for its formal title. The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) established a framework for the development, recognition and award of qualifications based on standards of knowledge, skill or competence acquired by learners. The National Framework of Qualifications provides a level for every award made in the jurisdiction, which are as follows:

Awarding Bodies/ Course Accreditation The courses offered at AIT reflect the current and future needs of Ireland’s industrial and commercial sectors, while at the same time meeting the highest national and international standards and gaining recognition and exemptions from the appropriate professional bodies. AIT is proud of the fact that its academic standards are independently and internationally recognised as being of the highest quality. As a result, the institute is empowered by HETAC, the Irish national awarding body for higher education, to confer its own awards up to Level 9 taught programmes and for Level 10 research awards in certain domains. The institute has obtained additional recognition for its courses by professional bodies wherever possible, in order to enhance the professional standing of graduates and to provide them with the fullest possible advantages for employment and career development. The main recognitions obtained are summarised here and are shown in more detail within the course-specific information.

Many courses are granted substantial examination exemptions from the relevant professional bodies. Courses offered by the Business School have been afforded exemptions/recognition from such bodies as ACCA, CIMA, CPA, the Marketing Institute of Ireland, and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Courses offered by the School of Engineering have been awarded exemptions/recognition, as appropriate, by such bodies as Engineers Ireland, the Engineering Council, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Royal Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland.

Modularisation

Courses in the School of Humanities have been afforded exemptions/recognition, as appropriate, from such bodies as the Irish Hotel and Catering Institute and the Hotel, Catering and International Management Association. The School of Science has negotiated exemptions/recognition from the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland, the Institute of Biology, the Veterinary Council of Ireland, the Dental Council, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and An Bord Altranais/ Nursing Board for a range of courses.

Modularisation is where programmes are divided into discreet but related units known as modules, which are delivered within a specified teaching period, known as a semester. Modularisation offers you more flexibility, mobility and control over the what and when of your learning. This system allows you to accumulate credit for the modules you successfully pass and makes it easier for you to transfer between programmes and between colleges.

Postgraduate Programmes Level 10: PhD Level 9: Masters; Postgraduate Diploma Level 8: Higher/Postgraduate Diploma

Honours Degree Programme (Level 8)

1 or 2 years add-on

Ordinary Degree Programme 3 or 4 years ab initio

3 years ab initio

(Level 7)

1 year add-on

Higher Certificate Programme (Level 6)

Foundation Certificate (Level 5)

2 years ab initio

Leaving Certificate

FETAC

(Level 5)

2012/2013

A module is a self-contained unit of a programme that when successfully completed and combined with other successfully completed modules leads to an award. Each module has specific aims, workloads, credits attached, learning outcomes and assessment schedules. Assessment takes place either during and/ or at the end of the learning period. Learning outcomes are measured by your knowledge, understanding, and ability on completion of a particular module. Each module is valued in terms of credits. You gain credits for every module successfully completed and the number of credits allocated to each module varies depending on the workload. The norm for a 5 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) credit module reflects a workload of approximately 125 hours. However, the value of an undergraduate module may vary, in the main, from between 5 to 20 credits. Each year of a programme requires 60 credits for the full-time learner. Modularised programmes are taught and assessed in the following periods: n Semester 1: September-December

(15 weeks inclusive of assessment) n Semester 2: January-May

(15 weeks inclusive of assessment)

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

A fundamental concept of modularisation is credit accumulation. This means that you gain credit for the successful completion of a module. In some circumstances, you may be able to proceed to the subsequent year of a programme carrying a failed module and have the opportunity to be reassessed or retake the module. However, this would normally only be possible if the failed module was not a prerequisite for a module being offered in the next year of the programme and where you are not seeking to attempt to gain more credit than is advisable in a session. Prerequisites are those modules which have to be passed before you can progress to a subsequent module. Co-requisites are modules that must be taken in conjunction with another related module. As a full-time student, you would normally expect to gain 30 ECTS credits in a semester or 60 ECTS credits in a full academic year. To support lifelong learning, however, we will facilitate registration within a range of ECTS credits and it is proposed that you can register on as little as 5 ECTS credits.

ACCS Undertaking a course through the Accumulation of Credits and Certification of Subjects (ACCS) mode allows you to follow any module on one of our courses and be awarded a certificate on successful completion of the module. You will be awarded credits for each module passed. Typically, a total of 120 credits is required to obtain a higher certificate, 180 credits to obtain an ordinary Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree, and 240 credits for an honours Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree award. This scheme is designed specially to facilitate students wishing to follow courses on a part-time basis, as well as those taking evening courses. Fees are charged on a per-module basis for courses undertaken within the ACCS mode at the institute. Students studying by ACCS are liable for all fees and are not eligible for funding. Contact the Fees and Grants Office for further information.

Industrial/Clinical Placements (Internships) Placements are a common (and sometimes mandatory) feature of many of our educational programmes. These work experience opportunities provide you with academic and employment benefits not possible in an exclusively college environment. As well as offering exposure to current work practices in industry, industrial placements provide a means by which you can practise the skills and apply the knowledge you have acquired in college, as well as undertake structured research within a teamwork situation. Industrial placement requirements are detailed within the particular programme information.

Quality Assurance The institute has a Quality Assurance (QA) Office which is responsible for coordinating and providing support to internal and external academic quality assurance activities. The institute’s Academic Registrar has overall responsibility for QA matters. In order to assist in the achievement of its mission and vision for the future, the institute has established procedures for quality improvement and quality assurance. The institute has been awarded a Certificate of Agreement from HETAC in respect of its procedures for quality assurance designed to improve and maintain the quality of education and training. This certificate recognises that the academic systems and procedures of the institute have been accredited to accord with highest international standards. The institute’s academic QA procedures operate at various levels. These processes are continually reviewed and updated in accordance with decisions by the institute’s academic council, and in accordance with the requirements of national agencies.

Quality is owned by and is the responsibility of everyone in the institute and core quality issues are dispersed across a range of areas. AIT’s academic, support and administrative functions contribute to determining the quality of the overall student experience. The institute has developed rigorous procedures to ensure that the quality of courses is maintained and enhanced. Procedures for obtaining student views on all aspects of course design and delivery are an integral part of the approach to QA. Such feedback represents a valuable input to the planning and development of programmes. The focus of the institute’s quality improvement/quality assurance procedures is not just on maintaining the academic standard of courses, although this is a vital element of meeting the needs of students, within the constraints of resources available, the institute aims to assure the quality of the students’ experience while they are attending AIT and to foster quality improvement at all levels.

2012/2013

Sport and Recreation The institute is one of the leading third-level institutions in the provision of sport and recreation programmes and services to students. Different interests and all levels of ability are catered for to ensure maximum participation. Our recreational programme facilitates all students who may wish to participate in activities at all levels whether as a casual player, a committed competitor, a beginner or an elite performer. The instituteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facilities include playing pitches and a multipurpose centre which contains a basketball court, four badminton courts, two volleyball courts, futsal (indoor soccer) and a state-of-the-art fitness suite. Our fitness suite is fully equipped with the most up-to-date equipment available, including 24 aerobic work stations, a variety of machine weights and Olympic-standard free weights. Specialised fitness programmes can be devised to suit your needs by our dedicated staff. Fitness tests are free for all new members and can be organised by calling and booking a time most suitable to your lecture time table. The benefit of using the fitness suite is that it is open all day and you can train at those times that suit you best. Our staff can also devise a programme for you to undertake in the comfort of your home. The fitness suite staff also organise aerobics, tone and stretch, and hips, bums and tums classes.

Saol sa CholĂĄiste College Life 16

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

The outdoor facilities include a full-size sand-based GAA pitch (floodlit), a full-size FIFA-approved 2-star international standard all-weather soccer pitch (floodlit) and a sand-based multi-sport grass training field which can accommodate rugby, soccer and Gaelic games. An eight-lane IAAF-approved synthetic athletics track is a recent addition to the sporting facilities at AIT. The grass centre field of the athletics track is also a full-size international dimension soccer pitch. A new indoor sporting arena is currently under construction and will include an IAAF-standard 6-lane indoor athletics track, two court sports hall on international futsal and basketball courts, an elite squad gym, performance laboratory, aerobics studio, fitness suite, physical therapy suites, as well as cafĂŠ facilities. The athletics track and

sports hall will both have 1,500-spectator capacity. The arena is due to be completed by June 2012. Students may also avail of various other local facilities. The Athlone Regional Sports Centre comprises a 25m swimming pool, sauna and steam room, jacuzzi, fitness gym, créche, café, FIFA size astro-turf pitch and a small sports hall. We also avail of the facilities of many local sports clubs for soccer and GAA in particular. Our golf society has developed a golf excellence programme in association with Glasson Golf Hotel and Country Club. AIT competes in ICGA Intervarsity League and ISSA Inter-college Championship, and was the first institute competing in the university league. At AIT, we believe that active membership in a sporting club has a positive and enhancing effect on students, affording you opportunities to represent the institute nationally, and in some instances to represent the institute and Ireland in overseas competitions. Intercollege competitions are open to institutes of technology, universities and colleges of higher education, and are organised on a league and/or championship basis. We have been highly successful in these events. Internal competitions for staff and students add an extra dimension to institute life. The indoor

and outdoor facilities are excellent and a well-established coaching/team management system is in place, implemented by full-time physical education and recreation officers, with the assistance of part-time coaching staff and the students’ sports representative. Registered students at the institute find that if they wish to develop and pursue their interest in sport and recreation, AIT will facilitate that goal. However, if one’s preference is not to compete but to participate, the sports and recreational programme is structured to meet those requirements. A familiarisation day is held at the beginning of each academic year to outline the available activities and facilities. The institute looks forward to providing a comprehensive sports and recreational outlet to all our incoming students which will add an exciting dimension to institute life.

Sports Scholarships Since 1996 we have operated a sports scholarship scheme for students who have reached, or have the potential to reach, a very high standard of performance in their chosen sport. Under the scheme, approximately 40 full and half scholarships are awarded each year, up to the value of €4,800 over four years. Each scholarship is awarded

for a period of one year, but may be renewed for up to a maximum of four years. Students pursuing higher study after the four year threshold will be considered for additional years. Sports scholarship payments are generally made in two equal instalments during the academic year, the first in December and the second after the recipients have completed the final examinations in semester two. Sports scholarship recipients must adhere to the institute’s sports scholarships regulations, a copy of which may be obtained from the Sports Department. The closing date for applications is normally early September of the year of entry. Further details of the scheme may be obtained from your local school/college or directly from the Sports Department on + 353 (0)90 642 4539/644 2565. The 2010/11 scholarship recipients included Paul Harte (Buccaneers RFC AIL Division 1 & Irish Colleges), Neil Harney (St Patrick’s Athletic and former Irish schools player).

2012/2013

Clubs and Societies Want to meet new people and experience new things? One of the best ways of doing both is by joining one of our many clubs and societies. A wide variety of sporting interests are catered for – indoor and outdoor activities, team and solo sports, field and water-based. A wide range is also evident in our societies and you will get the opportunity to develop your interest in your area of study or in more leisurely pursuits. Students who wish to create a new club that is not currently catered for at the institute will be mentored in the process of setting up the new club by the staff of the Sports Department.

Sports Clubs AIT Athletics Club/Athletics Ireland Fit4Life, Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball*, Camogie, Canoeing, Indoor Cricket, Equestrian, Gaelic Football*, Golf, Handball, Hill Walking, Hockey, Hurling, Futsal, Martial Arts, Kick Boxing, Orienteering, Paintball, Poker, Rugby*, Sailing, Snooker/Pool, Soccer*, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tag Rugby, Tennis, Volleyball*. * Indicates separate clubs for males and females.

Societies Apprentices, Art/Design, Amnesty International, Catering, Hospitality and Tourism (CATS), Chess, Chinese, Computer, Cumann Gaelach, Dancing, Dental Nursing, Drama, Film, International, Lesbian and Gay, Mature Students, Pharmacy Technician, Postgraduate (Research), Science, Social Studies, St Vincent de Paul, Veterinary Nursing, Yoga, Young Parents Group.

Students’ Union The Students’ Union provides support, advice and information on a wide variety of issues and represents students throughout the institute. In particular, it provides advice on accommodation, welfare and educational matters. The overall policy and direction of the union is decided by the students at general meetings. The aims of the union are:

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

n to represent and protect the rights

of students; n to afford a recognised means of

communication between the students and institute authorities; n to provide social and recreational

facilities for students; and n to provide a commercial service

to students.

Student Accommodation While AIT is non-residential, an accommodation list is available from the Students’ Union. You must make your own accommodation arrangements. However, the Student Services Manager or the institute Chaplain will be pleased to assist you if you have any difficulty in finding suitable accommodation. Further information is available on www.ait.ie and on www.aitsu.ie.

Student Social Centre Scribes is a fully licensed social centre, which offers a place to relax in a comfortable environment when taking a break from your studies. As well as drinks, it provides tea, coffee, soup and sandwiches. Scribes also provides quality night time entertainment for all of the campus community to enjoy.

Dining Facilities Restaurant/canteen facilities are available at a number of locations throughout our campus. These facilities provide a practical and social hub where students and staff from different faculties and departments integrate. A wide range of hot food, sandwiches, rolls, wraps, treats and smoothies are also available, as are salads and fruit for the health conscious. Athlone was named a Fairtrade town in 2007. AIT was the flagship organisation in acquiring the mark and the institute serves only Fairtrade tea and coffee on campus.

Banking Service All of the main banks have branches in Athlone. A full banking service is available on the main campus and there is also an ATM in the institute.

Third-level education can be expensive for some students. Careful consideration should be given to the costs involved and the sources of financial assistance available.

Fees Tuition Fees There is currently no tuition fee required for Irish and EU nationals undertaking full-time undergraduate courses at AIT. Students undertaking a second undergraduate course, non-EU students, students studying by ACCS mode, and students taking a year of a course for a second time (i.e. repeating a year level) may not be covered by this scheme and as such, are required to pay the fees due as determined by the Department of Education and Skills.

Student Contribution Fee The student contribution fee is not covered by a student maintenance grant or Free Fees Initiative, and is payable to the institute upon registration on an annual basis. For students who have been notified that they have been awarded a TLT Grant, Higher Education Grant or VEC Scholarship, this fee is paid on their behalf. Other full-time students must pay this fee prior to the commencement of the first semester. This fee was €2,000 in 2011/2012 and is subject to change on a yearly basis.

Non-EU Students International (non-EU) students are required to pay both tuition and student services fees. For further information please visit www.ait.ie/feesandgrants or contact the Fees and Grants Office.

Táillí, Deontas agus Cothabháil Fees, Grants and Maintenance

Maintenance It is estimated that the living expenses of a student residing away from home for the academic year can be over €6,000. Costs for students living at home are approximately €4,000. While many students are eligible for maintenance grants, it should be remembered that these grants do not fully cover living expenses and also that not all students are eligible for the full maintenance grant.

2012/2013

Sports Scholarship AIT awards approximately 40 full and half scholarships annually, up to the value of €4,800 over four years. Each scholarship is awarded for a period of one year, but may be renewed for up to a maximum of four years and for further years if the student progresses to postgraduate study. See page 17 for further information.

Student Assistance Fund

Typical Costs Living in Athlone (Approximate/Estimated Weekly Expenditure – five days)

Notes 1. Living in Athlone over weekends adds approximately €20-€30 to weekly expenditure

(* Further costs may be payable to stay in lodgings for the weekend).

Lodgings: Furnished rented room in-house with meal(s) also provided.

Special regard is given to students at third level who are or have been disadvantaged by life events, and an emergency fund to assist such students is operated by the Student Assistance Fund Committee, and administered by the institute’s Access Officer, supported by the Student Services Manager and the institute Chaplain. Each student who presents and makes a case for assistance is assessed on an individual and confidential basis and pending this assessment may qualify for financial help. This is to ensure, insofar as possible, that each student is enabled, on an equal footing, to participate in third level education to their full potential. Students wishing to avail of the fund should apply by completing the official application form and returning it, with all the relevant supporting documentation, to the Access Officer, Student Services Manager or Chaplain. Application forms are available from the Access Officer, Student Services Manager, Chaplain or from the Students’ Union office.

2. The above sample budget does not include expenditure on leisure activities.

Accommodation

LODGINGS* Half Board

€

HOUSE SHARE Rent

€

Bed/breakfast, evening meal (supper)

• Single Room (not including bills)

• Single Room (including bills)

• Sharing Double Room (not including bills)

• Sharing Double Room (including bills)

Mid-day snacks/food

Bus/train fare home (weekend)

Miscellaneous academic supplies

Social

195

225

Approx. Total

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

The institute offers a wide range of services to students. The Student Services Department is one of the first ports of call for students seeking information and help on any aspect of institute life. The range of services provided include chaplaincy, counselling, careers, health and disability support, financial support and liaising with external stakeholders and institute staff as required. The services offered continue to expand and are designed to help students obtain maximum benefit from their time at the institute. If a student’s needs cannot be met at this office, a referral will be offered to the appropriate person or agency.

Careers and Appointments Service The role of the Careers Service within the institute combines careers advisory work with students and facilitating employers to come into direct contact with students for recruitment purposes. Those seeking specific careers counselling should make an appointment by calling to the Careers Office in person, or by telephone to + 353 (0)90 646 8129. The Careers Office can help you with information on the following: n Further study opportunities at AIT and

in other colleges, both within Ireland and overseas n Career counselling to facilitate students

in knowing and evaluating the possibilities available n Compiling CVs and cover letters

Seirbhísí agus Saoráidí do Mhic Léinn Student Supports

n Interview techniques and ‘mock’

interviews n Employer recruitment programme

and careers fairs n Job opportunities n Employer presentations and interviews n Career videos n Employers information n Postgraduate opportunities n Scholarships n Recognised training courses n Summer work n Travelling and working abroad

2012/2013

PASS aims to help first year students: n quickly adjust to college life n improve their learning and study skills n enhance their understanding of the

subject matter of their programmes n prepare better for assignments and exams

Disability Advisory and Support Service AIT provides a complete and equitable access to education and all areas of college life, by avidly pursuing in its inclusive policies, seamless integration and active participation for students with disabilities.

Careers Fair AIT’s Career Fair is a major event in the life of final year students and graduates of AIT, with exhibitors including public and private sector employers, as well as local, national and international companies. A significant number of third level colleges also exhibit their postgraduate opportunities at the event. The 2011/2012 Careers Fair will be held on 10 November 2011.

a Master’s qualification, employment rates increased to 70%, with 3% progressing to doctoral studies. As with Level 8 graduates, 22% were looking for work within six months of leaving AIT. What these figures highlight is a move towards acquiring higher level qualifications, which in turn impacts in a positive fashion on employment prospects. The difference between Master’s graduates and honours degree graduates is significant for instance.

Graduate Survey The 2010 Graduate Survey reveals a considerable amount of interesting information about the employment prospects facing graduates, and the decisions they are making about their future. Across all graduates, some 13% of graduates reported that they were looking for exployment six months after completing their studies. However, when this is broken down across the various levels,

Student Tutors

At Level 6, 82% of graduates progressed to degree studies, while 11% had already secured employment. Just 5% were seeking employment. Again, at Level 7, the overwhelming majority (75%) progressed to an honours degree, while 13% were in employment. Nine per cent were seeking employment in this instance. For honours degree graduates (Level 8), 46% were working, with one-quarter progressing to postgraduate study. Twenty-two per cent were looking for work. For graduates with

Peer Assisted Student Support (PASS)

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

The student tutors provide support if you are experiencing difficulties with academic work. This is a free confidential service and the student tutor can offer referral to academic and/or Student Services support staff where necessary.

PASS is a scheme that offers cross-year support between students on the same programme. It encourages first year students to support each other and learn cooperatively under the guidance of a trained student from the second year of your course.

Prospective students are encouraged to make contact with the service as early as possible (prior to the commencement of the academic year) in order to discuss in confidence any facilities and supports they may require during their course of study. Additional facilities are available for all registered students with disabilities (including physical/learning/sensory disabilities, significant ongoing illness and mental health difficulties). Each student’s needs are assessed individually, taking into account their particular requirements. To avail of these facilities, you must be registered with the institute’s Disability Advisory and Support Service. Supports include note takers, personal assistance, learning support, assistive technology training, additional tuition and alternate examination arrangements.

Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) The Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) is a supplementary admissions scheme for school leavers with disabilities. DARE has been set up by a number of colleges and universities as clear evidence shows that disability can have a negative impact on how well a student does at school and whether they go on to college. School leavers who meet the eligibility criteria compete for a quota of places allocated to applicants on a reduced points basis in AIT. All applicants must meet the Irish Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) matriculation/ minimum entry and subject requirements.

Who Should Apply to DARE? DARE is for school leavers (under 23 years old as at 1 January 2012) who have the ability to benefit from and succeed in higher education but who may not meet the points for their preferred course due to the impact of a disability. Mature and FETAC students have different admissions routes and you can get further information on these routes from AIT.

How to Apply to DARE? STEP 1 School leavers must apply to the CAO at www.cao.ie by 1 February 2012. STEP 2 School leavers must disclose a disability/ specific learning difficulty on the CAO application form by 1 March 2012. Applicants are then directed to a separate online Supplementary Information Form which asks for additional information about the disability or specific learning difficulty. Applicants must complete Section A of the Supplementary Information Form and apply to DARE by 1 March 2012. STEP 3 Applicants must return the Second Level Academic Reference and Evidence of Disability to the CAO by 1 April 2012.

More Information More Information on DARE is available from your school guidance counsellor or AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disability Support Service Coordinator, Patricia Kearney (telephone + 353 (0)90 646 8141

and email pkearney@ait.ie. Information can also be found on: www.accesscollge.ie, www.cao.ie and www.ait.ie.

Counselling Service At any stage of your academic career, you may experience personal crises, difficulty in relation to study or examinations, lack of confidence or self-esteem, unsatisfactory relationships, family difficulties, anxiety or depression. The counselling service provides help and support if you are experiencing difficulties. The institute counsellors provide a professional, confidential and free service to help you cope or to resolve difficulties.

Chaplaincy Services The overall objective of the chaplaincy service is to make life in AIT as meaningful and as enjoyable as possible and to create a spirit of cooperation and personal care. An emergency service is provided in the event of sudden illness, family or personal problems. Students are invited to visit the residence outside working hours and volunteers to assist with the running of the services are always welcome. Mass is celebrated each weekday in the institute chapel with interdenominational services celebrated each month.

Health Centre A confidential health and medical service is available on campus. The health centre provides a full medical service and advises on all health-related matters. Doctors attend at the institute each day at times which are published within the institute.

Healthy Campus Initiative AIT operates the Healthy Campus project in partnership with the Health Service Executive. The objective is to provide you with relevant information, to motivate you to make healthy choices and to provide you with the opportunity to do so.

Access Office The work of the Access Office is centred around encouraging and supporting mature students and people from socio-economic/ educationally disadvantaged groups in progressing to third level in the form of pre-entry and post-entry activities. Pre-entry activities include a Foundation Course and a number of collaborative projects across the region. In terms of post-entry, this office administers the student assistance fund and a crĂ¨che fund which may provide financial assistance to qualifying students attending the institute.

2012/2013

Goldsmith Library The Goldsmith Library, named after Oliver Goldsmith an Anglo-Irish writer (1730-1774), spans the institute’s two campuses with the principle library located in the Main Campus and the Nursing Library Annex in the East Campus. The library mission is to provide quality information and learning resources, and to meet the needs of learning, teaching, and research within the AIT and the local community with services of the highest quality. There are 400 reading spaces within the main library and a small computer room which is available to students for collaborative studying. The collection includes books, journals and multimedia resources to support the institute’s major teaching subjects: business, nursing, engineering, humanities, computer gaming, hotel and catering, IT, science, social care and tourism. The library collection consists of over 26,000 books (print and e-books). Also there are over 37,000 electronic journals and e-material searchable via the library’s website. The journal collection includes the top ranked journals such as Science, Harvard Business Review, Computers and Graphics, and many more.

Tacaíocht Foghlamtha Learning Supports 24

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

In this digital age, many of the library services are now provided online. For example, all previous examination papers are accessible electronically. Electronic/online databases are selected to cover the primary subjects taught in the institute. Some databases of interest include Business Source Premier, Emerald, Proquest ABI-Inform, ScienceDirect, Medline, Academic Source Premier, Gale Academic and General One File which provide fulltext access to scholarly material. Students and staff enjoy access to 32 online databases which contain over 37,000 electronic journals and e-material.

Information and Communications Technology Facilities AIT has invested heavily in updating its computer facilities. The Information Technology Centre is a centralised service available to all students within the institute. Currently there are eight general-purpose laboratories consisting of 250 personal computers linked by file servers using an ethernet network and Windows XP Professional software. In addition, specialist laboratories are available within the schools of Engineering, Science (including Nursing), Humanities (including the Mac-based design suite, language laboratory and the Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Studies computer laboratory. In addition to the suite of computer laboratories, the institute provides a 150-seat open access area for students involved in project and research work, while there is an additional open access area in the library. For students with special needs, an assistive technology laboratory is available just off the main canteen area. Students have access to industry-standard hardware and software packages (database, word processing, accounting, spreadsheets, statistics, CAD, hotel administration, graphics, engineering, programming, etc.) across the various disciplines of study. There is also a wireless network available for student access in the canteen area of the main building. Students must provide their own laptops in order to avail of this service. Internet access allows for the acquisition of information suitable for student projects and research work. In addition many of the library databases are accessible via the internet. The comprehensive range of computer equipment available is updated and expanded on an ongoing basis to reflect the emphasis on IT management in the modern business and industrial world.

Languages At AIT we aim to produce confident, articulate and polished graduates who will make a meaningful contribution to civic and economic life. Languages are key to developing your clarity of expression and creative thinking. Furthermore, the study of languages as part

of an applied third-level course enables you to develop excellent personal and interpersonal skills, greatly valued by employers both at home and abroad. The study of a language promotes the intercultural understanding that is increasingly important in our multicultural society. AIT is intent on widening job opportunities for students within Europe. Employers accept that a workforce with better language skills will underpin future economic prosperity in the EU. An Irish Business and Employersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Confederation (IBEC) report indicated that over half of the respondent companies conduct business with foreign countries. As current trends towards greater European integration continue and gain momentum, the improved language ability of Irish graduates will become increasingly important and will give those with additional language competencies a genuinely competitive edge.

The booths are equipped to allow for two-way communication between you and the lecturer, as well as student-to-student communication. The multi-recorder system enables different groups to use the laboratory simultaneously and contains a high-speed recording facility. Some student booths are fitted with personal computers for interactive learning. The laboratories are linked to a satellite TV system which provides live access to continental TV channels, with sound transmission to each headset.

In Athlone, you may choose from French and Spanish. Those with no previous knowledge of the language will have the opportunity to study Spanish at beginnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; level. Depending on your course, you may choose to study a language at AIT by taking it as an elective module. The focus placed on language learning encourages maximum student participation, with emphasis on active use of the language rather than on passive comprehension. You are encouraged to work in groups, thus fostering teamwork, and you also gain confidence in expressing yourself in a group situation. Terminology specific to your own course of study (business, computing, hotel management, etc.) is also taught.

Language Laboratories The language laboratories at the institute offer facilities for the intensive practice of linguistic skills. AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state-of-the-art multimedia language laboratory ensures a high quality learning experience. Access to the internet in the language classroom exposes you to interactive learning materials and allows you to determine the pace of your own learning. You may also connect and communicate with your peers in partner colleges through tandem email projects. The laboratory also provides opportunities for self-study and independent research.

2012/2013

Society today has seen rapid changes in terms of lifestyles, technological developments, globalisation of markets, and the increasing interdependability of nations. Our courses and curricula reflect such changes. AIT is actively involved in EU schemes which provide you with work and study opportunities abroad. Participation has been predominantly within the areas of student and staff mobility, in addition to some research and consultancy work carried out as part of pan-European consortia.

The EU education schemes have been developed to strengthen the spirit of European citizenship and to draw upon the cultural heritage of each EU state. Student exchange programmes achieve this aim by facilitating the mobility of students within the EU. Exchange programmes operate in the schools of Business, Humanities, Science and Engineering, with EU students attending courses at the institute and our students studying abroad on a reciprocal basis. Staff exchanges between partner institutes are also an integral part of the particular schemes and the collaboration includes the development of networks whereby institutes with a common interest join together in the development of projects, teaching materials, etc. As an active member of the Business School Network (BUSINET) and of the European Association for International Education (EAIE), the Business School has been at the forefront of such activity. Students from the School of Engineering have availed of EU funding to enable them to carry out industrial training programmes abroad. The School of Humanities has developed mobility exchange programmes with institutes and universities in Canada and the USA in the fields of social care and child and youth care.

Próifíl Idirnáisiúnta International Profile 26

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Links have been established by the School of Science with institutions such as Staffordshire University, University of London Royal Postgraduate Medical School and the University of Portsmouth. Student and staff exchanges have been set-up between AIT and the Institut Universitaire de Technologie (IUT), Rennes. Students from year three programmes in the School of Science can apply to study or complete placement for one semester at AIT partner colleges in the US at Daemen College, Buffalo; New College, Florida or Pitzer College, California. The institute has established franchise arrangements with the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS), Lusaka, Zambia, which allows ZCAS students to follow AIT courses in Zambia and, simultaneously with AIT students, take AIT assessments and examinations. ZCAS students are eligible to transfer to the institute to complete the final stages of their professional accountancy examinations. AIT and Dongbei University of Finance and Economics (DUFE), China, have a partnership

agreement whereby students can transfer to the Bachelor of Arts in Accounting at AIT. AIT students will have the opportunity to apply to complete a semester of study or summer programme in Chinese culture and language at partner universities in Beijing or Shanghai. The institute is currently developing student transfer links with a number of educational institutions in China, which allow Chinese students to complete the final two years of their programme of study in Athlone. One such agreement enables students from Southern Yangtze University, Wuxi to transfer to computer and software engineering programmes at AIT. Other strategic international partners of the institute (and their particular area of cooperation) include: n Beijing University of Chemical Technology,

China [Polymer Engineering] n Beijing Union University, China

[Business and Accounting] n Capital University of Economics

and Business, Beijing [Business and Accounting] n Bharati Vidyapeeth University (BVU),

India [Software Engineering]

n Chinese Academy of Science Institute

of Software [Software Engineering] n Dongbei University of Finance and

Economics, Dalian, China [Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting] n Southeast University, Nanjing, China

[Master of Science in Software Engineering] n Tongji University, Shanghai, China

[Master of Science in Software Engineering] n Zhejiang University City College,

Hangzhou, China [Software Engineering] n Higher Colleges of Technology,

United Arab Emirates n Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy

[Higher Certificate in Business] n Temasek Polytechnic, Singapore

[Business] n Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia

[Polymer and Software Engineering] n Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia

[Polymer and Software Engineering]

International Office The International Office provides: n information and support to international

applicants prior to their arrival, as well as induction events for international students registered with the institute n assistance to international students,

in the areas of accommodation, welfare, academic and social life n assistance to AIT students with

international ambitions, in the area of finding placements, long-term employment and exchange programmes n information for prospective international

students. Further details on the work of the International Office may be obtained from: Mary Simpson, Director of International Relations Telephone: + 353 (0)90 646 8272 Fax: + 353 (0)90 642 4627 Email: international@ait.ie

n Technical and Vocational Training

Corporation TVTC, Saudi Arabia [Computer, Mechanical and Civil Engineering, Business, Accounting and Life Sciences] 2012/2013

International (non-EU Applicants) The institute welcomes applications from international students. Applicants from non-EU countries must satisfy AIT with regard to their eligibility for courses and must demonstrate the required level of competence in the English language (TOEFL 213 CBT, IELTS 6 or equivalent). Certified transcripts and English language translations of qualifications not issued in English must be furnished with the application. At the time of registration applicants from non-EU countries must have a valid visa for the duration of the course which they wish to undertake. Applicants from non-EU countries must apply directly to the International Office at the institute on or before 1 May 2012. Application forms and procedures are available from www.ait.ie.

Certificate in English for Academic Studies for International (non-EU) applicants This is a one-year, full-time course designed for international (non-EU) students who wish to subsequently pursue an undergraduate course at the institute. The programme provides successful participants with an understanding of English usage, computing, basic technology, engineering and business. Further details of this programme are provided on page 44.

Summer School Programme in Irish Cultural Studies

There is a fee payable for participation in this programme, which includes tuition plus excursions. Accommodation and expenses associated with cost of living are not included.

Three-week study abroad programme (June/July 2012) for international students

Further details (and application forms) may be obtained from the website: www.ait.ie, telephone + 353 (0)90 646 8272, facsimile +353 (0)90 642 4627 and email: international@ait.ie.

The aim of this programme is to provide participants with an introduction to Irish history, culture, politics and society. It focuses on key aspects of Irish history, settlement, migration and civilisation. Through lectures, tours, discussion and reading, the programme provides an outline analysis of the principal phases of historic settlement in Ireland. The objectives of this programme are: n to outline the events leading to the

emergence of modern Ireland, to analyse the ideas and forces that shape its character n to offer an analysis of the recent

development of the Irish economy and the consequent transformation of Irish society n to expose participants to Irish culture,

including literature, theatre, visual arts, Irish language, music, dance, sport, food and drink.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Access Service Access is not simply about gaining a place at the institute if you wish to study at third-level, but it also involves your whole progression into and through your chosen course. Our Access Officer supports you prior to, and during, your time at AIT. The Access Officer can act as a liaison between you, institute personnel, or your parents/guardians, as appropriate, depending on issues which may arise during the year. One important initiative administered by the Access Office is the student assistance/ access fund. This fund gives special regard and financial support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and to those who find themselves disadvantaged by life events. The fund forms an essential part of the support for such students. A major programme organised by the Access Office is the Foundation Certificate. This is intended for adult learners who wish to return to study after a break in their formal educational experience and who may not have benefited fully from, or have had access to, previous educational opportunities.

Saoráidí Tacaíocht don Iontrála Entry/Admission Support Services

The Access Office also runs a number of funded programmes which are centred around both pre- and post-entry supports. Some of these include: the After Schools Club, Summer Camps for second level students, the Mature Students Programme and the Writing Skills Programme. For more information on any of these initiatives, contact the Access Office.

Foundation Certificate Course This one-year programme is designed to provide the student with an understanding of computing, technology, engineering, humanities, business and science. It is intended for adult learners who wish to return to study after a break in their educational experience and for those who may not have benefited fully from, or had access to, previous educational opportunities. This course provides an effective introduction for adult learners embarking on a third-level course. Details of the Foundation Certificate programme are provided on page 43.

2012/2013

Applicants for this course must apply directly to the Access Office at the institute. Application forms and procedures are available from the Access Office.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) AIT operates a process for the recognition of prior learning. This is a flexible process designed to match the varied needs of applicants and facilitate their return to education.

What is RPL? Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the system for crediting students for demonstrated learning that has occurred prior to admission. This learning can be obtained â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;on the jobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, through training (certified or non-certified) or through a variety of other sources.

RPL includes:

RPL Policy

(i) Recognition of Prior Certified Learning: Where an applicant has already been awarded a certificate for a formal programme taken at another institution or training organisation, this prior learning can be recognised and may entitle the applicant to exemptions from some parts of a programme.

The RPL policy sets out what requirements the applicant needs to satisfy in order to gain an exemption and the maximum number of exemptions that may be achieved in any stage of a programme/course.

(ii) Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning: This involves the awarding of credit for learning from experience. In this case, the candidate must attest the learning by producing a portfolio to support the claim for access, exemption, or credit. As a general principle, credit is given for learning, not for experience per se.

(ii) Where a minimum of 50% of the learning outcomes for the module are achieved

Advantages of RPL n Formally recognises certified learning

and informal or non-formal learning n Offers an alternative route to those

with appropriate experience n Compares your learning directly with

the module content n Frees up study time for other modules n Ensures your learning is formally assessed

by the academic lecturer for the module.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Recognition or accreditation will only be given: (i) For complete modules/subjects

(iii) For a maximum of 50% of the modules/ subjects for the stage (iv) Up to a maximum of 50% of the total credits for the stage

How to Apply The applicant can initiate the process by submitting an application form to Kieran Doyle, Work-Based Learning Coordinator on tel + 353 (0)90 642 4425 and email kdoyle@ait.ie. The application should include the appropriate documentation necessary to support the application. Where experiential learning is involved, a portfolio must be prepared and evaluated. Assistance can be provided in preparing the portfolio.

Equal Opportunities The institute implements a policy of equality of opportunity for all. An essential element of this policy is the promotion of a positive learning environment to ensure that all students are assisted in realising their full potential. Applications from adult learners of all nationalities and socio-economic backgrounds, as well as from marginalised groups, are welcomed. Each member of the institute community has a duty to accept personal responsibility for the implementation of the policy and to support it, as appropriate, within the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area of activity.

Mature Applicants The institute considers applicants who are 23 years or over on 1 January in the year of entry to be mature applicants. Such applicants may not be required to have the minimum entry requirements. However, the institute will look for satisfactory evidence of the applicantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to pursue and benefit from the course. Knowledge and skills gained through experiential learning will be taken into account, having regard to the course for which the mature applicant has applied. Such applicants should apply through the CAO system, and may be required to attend for interview at AIT as part of the selection process.

Applicants with Disabilities/Specific Learning Difficulties The institute welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities/ specific learning difficulties. Our aim is to ensure that all applicants are offered an opportunity to enter third level and to complete their studies successfully. Applicants should apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO) and indicate on the application form that they have a disability/ specific learning difficulty which is the basis for seeking reasonable accommodations or support in either the application process or their college course. For information about the Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) supplementary admissions scheme operated by AIT, see pages 22-23.

2012/2013

CAO Programmes The CAO handbook provides full details of the application procedure. You should read the handbook carefully and follow the directions given. Neither AIT nor the CAO accepts responsibility for any mistakes made, or the consequences of such mistakes, if correct procedures are not followed. For most applicants, the procedures outlined in the CAO handbook are sufficient to help ensure the completion of the application process. Further information is available online at www.cao.ie. It is also possible to apply for a place online. Applicants for the Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communications) and the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design in Visual Communications are required to comply with the institute’s special criteria for entry (see pages 152, 154). Applications for these programmes cannot be accepted after 1 February in the year of entry, and an applicant cannot select these programmes as a new choice after 1 February in the year of entry. Applicants who are currently attending a third level course may be eligible to apply through the CAO system for a course as Readmission applicants. Application for the following courses must be made to the: Central Applications Office Tower House Eglinton Street Galway Tel: 091 509 800 Fax: 091 562 344 Web: www.cao.ie

Nós Imeachta chun Iarratas a Dhéanamh do AIT Applying to AIT 32

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Honours Bachelor Degrees – Level 8 (HD) Code

Honours Bachelor Degrees – Level 8

Page

AL802

Software Design (Games Development)

106

AL803

Software Design (Web Development)

108

AL805

Construction Technology and Management

AL830

General Nursing

220

AL832

Psychiatric Nursing

222

AL831

Mature Applicants General Nursing

220

AL833

Mature Applicants Psychiatric Nursing

222

AL836

Health Science and Nutrition

224

AL837

Sports Science with Exercise Physiology

201

AL838

Biotechnology

197

AL839

Human and Animal Toxicology

195

AL840

Pharmaceutical Science

199

AL850

Business

AL851

Business and Law

AL852

Accounting

AL853

Accounting and Law

AL860

Social Care Practice

142

AL862

Visual Communications

154

Ordinary Bachelor Degrees – Level 7 (DG)

Dates of Application – CAO Programmes for entry in September 2012

Higher Certificates – Level 6 (HC) Code

Ordinary Bachelor Degrees – Level 7

Qualification

AL702

Electronics and Wireless Communications

DG + HD

Page

1 February 2012

Closing date

102

Late closing date

1 May 2012

Change of mind date

1 July 2012

AL703

Computer Network Management

DG + HD

104

AL704

Computer Engineering

DG + HD

101

AL710

Mechanical Engineering

DG + HD

117

AL711

Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

DG + HD

119

Re-admission Applicants 22 July 2012

Closing date

AL712

Mechatronics

DG + HD

121

AL720

Sustainable Construction

DG + HD

AL721

Civil Engineering

DG + HD

AL730

Biotechnology

DG + HD

188

AL731

Veterinary Nursing

DG + HD

191

AL732

Environmental Toxicology

DG + HD

186

The institute will facilitate successful applicants who wish to postpone entry for a year in order to undertake relevant employment or voluntary work.

Deferred Entry – CAO Programmes

AL733

Forensic Toxicology

DG + HD

185

The procedure is as follows:

AL734

Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Development and Analysis)

DG + HD

193

1. applicants should not accept the offer through the CAO;

AL750

Business Computing

DG + HD

AL760

Hotel and Spa Management

167

AL761

Hotel and Leisure Management

DG + HD

165

2. applicants wishing to defer their offer of a place at AIT should write directly to the institute’s Admissions Office seeking a deferral and setting out the reason for the request. The letter should arrive not later than two days before the reply date for the offer. The applicant must enclose Part C of the offer notice with the letter.

AL762

Tourism and Guest Services Management

DG + HD

164

AL763

Design (Communications)

DG + HD

152

Code

Higher Certificates – Level 6

Qualification

Page

AL601

Electronics and Computer Engineering

HC + DG + HD

100

AL602

Mechanical Engineering

HC + DG + HD

116

AL603

Construction Studies

HC + DG + HD

AL604

Civil Engineering

HC + DG + HD

AL630

Pharmacy Technician

HC + DG

219

(a) Deferred applicants for the Bachelor in Arts in Design (Communications) and the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design in Visual Communications are not required to re-submit a portfolio of work.

AL631

Dental Nursing

HC + DG

218

AL632

Science (Bioscience/Chemistry)

HC + DG + HD

184

AL650

Business

HC + DG + HD

AL651

Music and Instrument Technology

HC + DG

AL652

Business in Equine Studies

HC + DG

AL653

Office Management

HC + DG + HD

AL654

Accounting Technician

+ HD

AL660

Culinary Arts

162

AL661

Bar Supervision

161

AL663

Business (Sport and Recreation)

HC + DG + HD

160

AL664

Applied Social Studies

HC + DG + HD

138

AL665

Childcare Supervisory Management

HC + DG

140

Notes

Deferred applicants (mature) for the BSc in Nursing in General Nursing and the BSc in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing are not required to retake the written assessment.

(b) Any grant or scholarship offered in the current year may not be available in the year that studies are commenced if regulations governing the award of that grant or scholarship change during the period of deferral.

2012/2013

Leaving Certificate Streams

Foundation Level Subjects Foundation Level Irish at grade B3 meets the minimum language requirement. No points are awarded.

Leaving Certificate Points System Points are calculated on the basis of the six best subject results in one sitting of the Leaving Certificate examination, using the table below. AIT will award a single standard 25 bonus points for all higher level maths grades D and above, irrespective of the grade achieved. There will be no bonus points awarded for grade E or below. Applicants to the CAO will, as previously, count the score from their six best subjects. If higher level maths is not among these six subjects, the bonus points will not be included in the total points score. Leaving Cert grade

Points for HL Maths

Points Points for for other all OL HL subjects subjects

Foundation Level Mathematics at minimum grade B2 will be accepted as meeting the minimum Mathematics requirements for entry to the following courses: AL664

Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care (Level 6)

AL665

Higher Certificate in Childcare Supervisory Management (Level 6)

AL860

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Care Practice (Level 8)

AL763

Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communications) (Level 7)

AL862

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design in Visual Communications (Level 8)

Scoring System for Foundation Level Mathematics

125

100

Grade

Points

115

110

105

100

Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) The LCVP subject will be considered as a passing subject provided the student achieves at least a pass grade. This will apply to entry for honours degree (Level 8), ordinary degree (Level 7) and higher certificate (Level 6) courses.

Scoring System for Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme Grade

Points

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Leaving Certificate Applied Programme (LCAP) LCAP subjects do not meet minimum entry requirements for admission to academic courses and are not considered as passing subjects. Holders of the LCAP may wish to pursue a FETAC Level 5 programme in order to meet eligibility for entry to third level courses at this institute.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate (Level 6) and Ordinary Degree (Level 7) Programmes Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish). Additional entry criteria pertain to the following programmes, as outlined below:

AL763 Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communications) In addition to the standard minimum entry requirements for an ordinary degree course, applicants must present their portfolios for assessment by the institute. The points obtained from the portfolio assessment are amalgamated with Leaving Certificate or FETAC points. The overall score determines whether the applicant is offered a place on the course.

AL654 Accounting Technicians Ireland Technician course Leaving Certificate with Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects or four Grade D3 of which at least two are on higher-level papers. Passes must be obtained in English and at least one subject from Mathematics or Accountancy.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Qualifications other than Leaving Certificate FETAC Level 5 Qualifications There will be no change in the way CAO points are allocated to FETAC graduates for entry into AIT in September 2012. However, for entry into AIT from September 2013, all FETAC level 5 and FETAC level 6 awards will be scored to deliver a maximum of 400 CAO points. A FETAC Component Certificate/Record of Achievement is not sufficient to gain entry to courses at AIT; candidates must have achieved a full FETAC Certificate (Major Award). A major award may be accumulated over more than one academic year. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the applicant to apply to FETAC for a major award where courses are taken over more than one year.

AL630 Higher Certificate in Science (Pharmacy Technician) Leaving Certificate with a laboratory-based science subject at Grade D3 in higher level or D3 in ordinary level, plus four subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level, to include Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

AL731 Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing AL631 Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing Leaving Certificate with a laboratory-based science subject at Grade D3 in higher level or B3 in ordinary level, plus four subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level, to include Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

Honours Degree (Level 8) Programmes Leaving Certificate with Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects plus four subjects at D3 at ordinary level. The six subjects must include Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

Additional entry criteria pertain to the following programmes, as outlined below:

AL862 Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Design in Visual Communications In addition to the standard minimum entry requirements for an honours degree course, applicants must present their portfolios for assessment by the institute. The points obtained from the portfolio assessment are amalgamated with Leaving Certificate/FETAC points. The overall score determines whether the applicant is offered a place on the course.

AL830 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in General Nursing AL832 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing Leaving Certificate with Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects plus four subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. The six subjects to include Mathematics, English or Irish (not foundation level Irish), plus a laboratory-based science subject. Mature applicants will be required to undertake an aptitude test and interview.

Due to the competitive nature of both General and Psychiatric Nursing, scores will only be calculated when the appropriate award is presented in a single sitting, together with all the required modules and grades.

Points based on FETAC results Points are calculated on your best eight modules as follows: Distinction Merit Pass

50 35 20

For programmes having a specific FETAC quota (i.e. General Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Dental Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, Veterinary Nursing, Childcare Supervisory Management, Social Care Practice, and Applied Social Studies), the FETAC results are considered in Round 0 (early August). Your FETAC scores will not normally be considered after Round 0 where a quota applies. For programmes where no specific quota applies, FETAC scores are included in the order of merit list of all applicants presenting school leaving examinations, and initial offers are issued in Round 1. FETAC results will not be added to Leaving Certificate results. If you have taken both exams, the exam in which you have achieved the highest points will be used for non-quota places. The following system applies to graduates of FETAC Level 5 courses seeking admission to the institute in 2012.

2012/2013

The following system applies to graduates of FETAC Level 5 courses seeking admission to the institute in 2012.

CAO Code

Programme

AL601

Higher Certificate in Electronics and Computer Engineering

Level

Required FETAC Level 5

Any

Required FETAC Module(s) included in FETAC Award FETAC Module C20174

AL602

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL603

Higher Certificate in Construction Studies

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL604

Higher Certificate in Civil Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL630

Higher Certificate in Science (Pharmacy Technician)

Any

FETAC Module C20139 and FETAC Module C20006

AL631

Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing

Any

FETAC Module C20139 and FETAC Module C20006 at minimum Merit level

AL632

Higher Certificate in Science (Bioscience/Chemistry)

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL650

Higher Certificate in Business

Any

None

AL651

Higher Certificate in Business with Music and Instrument Technology

Any

None

AL652

Higher Certificate in Business in Equine Studies

Any

None

AL653

Higher Certificate in Business in Office Management

Any

None

AL660

Higher Certificate in Culinary Arts

Any

None

AL661

Higher Certificate in Bar Supervision

Any

None

AL663

Higher Certificate in Business in Sport and Recreation

Any

None

AL664

Higher Certificate in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

Any

FETAC Module G20031 or D20003 or D20169 or D20180 or D20179

AL665

Higher Certificate in Arts in Childcare Supervisory Management

Any

FETAC Module G200031 or D20032 or D20153 or D20159 or D20003 or D200005 or D200007

AL702

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL703

Bachelor of Science in Computer Network Management

Any

FETAC Module C20174 or C20175

AL704

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL710

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL711

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL712

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL720

Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Construction

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL721

Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL730

Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL731

Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing

Any

FETAC Module C20139 and FETAC Module C20006 at minimum Merit level

AL732

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Toxicology

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL733

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Toxicology

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL734

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Development and Analysis)

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL750

Bachelor of Science in Business Computing

Any

FETAC Module C20175

AL760

Bachelor of Arts in Hotel and Spa Management

Any

None

AL761

Bachelor of Arts in Hotel and Leisure Management

Any

None

AL762

Bachelor of Arts in Tourism and Guest Services Management

Any

None

AL763

Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communications)

Any

None

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

CAO Code

Programme

Level

Required FETAC Level 5

Required FETAC Module(s) included in FETAC Award

AL802

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Software Design (Game Development)

CITXX

FETAC Module C20174 or C20175 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL803

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Software Design (Web Development)

CITXX

FETAC Module C20174 or C20175 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL805

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Construction Technology and Management

CCONT

FETAC Module C20174 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL830

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Nursing in General Nursing

DCHSN DCHSX DHSXX

Must possess distinctions in five modules in FETAC qualification, which must include D20001, D20012 and D20032 or C200006

AL832

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing

DCHSN DCHSX DHSXX

Must possess distinctions in five modules in FETAC qualification, which must include D20001, D20012 and D20032 or C200006

AL836

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Health Science and Nutrition

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL837

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL838

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biotechnology

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL839

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Human and Animal Toxicology

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL840

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Sciences

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL850

Bachelor of Business (Hons)

BBSAX BBSXX BMXXX BBSBS BBSSX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL851

Bachelor of Business and Law (Hons)

BBSAX BBSXX BMXXX BBSBS BBSSX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL852

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting

BBSAX BBSXX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL853

Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Law (Hons)

BBSAX BBSXX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL860

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Social Care Practice

DCHSC DCHSN DCHCC DCHSX

FETAC Module G20031 – Must possess distinctions in three modules

AL862

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Design in Visual Communications

AAXXX ADESX AACDX AGDXX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

2012/2013

Graduates of FETAC Level 6 awards intending to apply for a place at AIT should contact the institute in advance for more information in relation to the exemptions available to award holders.

Trade Qualifications A trade applicant, seeking admission to the first year of a course, should do so through the CAO. Such application may be on the basis of National Craft Certificate, Senior Trades or National Tourism Certification Board (NTCB)/FETAC qualifications, instead of, or in addition to, Leaving Certificate results. AIT welcomes applications from such candidates. Possession of these awards at advanced level normally qualifies an applicant for entry to the institute.

Other Qualifications Applicants with qualifications other than those listed above (including EU and overseas qualifications) should apply in the normal way, giving full details of their qualifications/ application category on the CAO form.

BTEC holders BTEC holders are eligible to apply, by direct entry, for places on Year 2 of our Level 6 (Higher Certificate) and Year 2 of our Level 7 (Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree) programmes in the Department of Humanities, and for direct entry to Year 2 of the Bachelor of Science in Business Computing (Level 7).

Certification of Examinations Results and/or Work Experience Where an application is being made on the basis of qualifications other than an Irish Leaving Certificate, and/or experience, the relevant certificates showing dates, subjects and results of examinations, as well as duration and details of employment/ experience, must accompany the application form to the CAO. Where the relevant certificates are not available at the time of application, these must be submitted as soon as they are available. English translations of qualifications not issued in English must be supplied. Applications will not be considered without the appropriate certificates.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Non-CAO Applications Application forms for the following courses are available from, and should be returned to, the institute.

Foundation Level Programmes n Foundation Certificate Programme n Certificate in English and Academic

Studies, for International (non-EU) students

Ordinary Degree (Level 7) Programmes [one-year, add-on programmes unless otherwise stated] n Bachelor of Business in Equine Studies n Bachelor of Business n Bachelor of Business in International

Business Management n Bachelor of Engineering in Civil

Engineering n Bachelor of Engineering in Sustainable

Construction n Bachelor of Engineering in Computer

Engineering n Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical

Engineering

n Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer

Processing, two-year part-time n Bachelor of Business in Sport

Management n Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social

Studies in Social Care n Bachelor of Arts in Childcare

Management n Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical

Science (Drug Development & Analysis). n Bachelor of Science in Environmental

Toxicology n Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology n Bachelor of Science in Clinical Pharmacy

Practice n Bachelor of Science in Dental Practice

Management with Oral Health Promotion n Bachelor of Science in Environmental,

Health and Safety Management, two-year part-time

Honours Degree (Level 8) Programmes [one-year, add-on programmes unless otherwise stated] n Bachelor of Science in Business

Computing (Honours) n Bachelor of Business (Honours) n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

in Applied Accounting part-time n Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design

in Digital Media n Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

in Software Engineering n Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

in Sustainable Energy Engineering n Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

in Civil Engineering, two-year, add-on n Bachelor of Business (Honours) in

Management in Tourism and Sport n Bachelor of Business (Honours) in

Minimum Entry Requirements Foundation Certificate Programme Candidates aged 21 years on 1 January of the year of entry are required to have Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination, including Mathematics and a language (English or Irish). Candidates aged 22 years are defined as mature applicants for the Foundation Certificate programme and may not be required to present minimum entry requirements. The selection procedure may involve an interview at the institute.

Ordinary Degree (Level 7) Add-on Programmes Higher Certificate (Level 6) qualification in an appropriate discipline, unless otherwise stated.

Tourism and Hospitality Management n Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Applied

Social Studies in Social Care, one-year, full-time or two-year, part-time n Bachelor of Science (Honours)

in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Discovery & Development) n Bachelor of Science (Honours)

in Applied Biosciences n Bachelor of Science (Honours)

in Veterinary Practice Management n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing,

through ACCS mode

Bachelor of Business in International Business Management Applications are confined to overseas students, who have a Higher Certificate in Business or an equivalent Level 6 qualification. In addition, applicants must be recommended by the institution in the country where they have studied.

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care Higher Certificate in an appropriate discipline or an equivalent Level 6 qualification. Applicants are also required to have successfully completed, in an approved setting, the prescribed work experience placement of the Higher Certificate programme. The selection process may also include an interview.

Honours Degree (Level 8) Add-on Programmes Ordinary degree (Level 7) or an equivalent Level 7 qualification, in an appropriate discipline, unless stated otherwise below. Note Prior to entry to a degree course, applicants may be required to complete a short bridging studies module.

Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Applied Accounting Applicants should have successfully completed professional examinations of a major internationally recognised accounting body, for example, CPA, CIMA, ACCA, ICAI, or have successfully completed the penultimate (up to, but not including final) examinations of one of these bodies.

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Engineering Applicants should possess a Merit 2 in either the BEng in Construction/Civil Works, BEng in Highway/Traffic Engineering or BEng in Civil Engineering or equivalent. They must also have obtained 70% in the Mathematics module (Mathematics and Structural Analysis) of the final BEng degree examination or a pass in the instituteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridging Mathematics exam.

2012/2013

Prior to registration, applicants offered and accepting places are provided with information relating to enrolment, tuition fees and accommodation. Students must register with the institute and complete all the registration requirements during the academic year. All registered students are issued with a current student card. AIT’s Student Handbook, which contains information on services and facilities, as well as

Induction During their first week at AIT, students attend induction sessions at which they are introduced to academic and student services staff. This time allows students to become familiar with the institute’s layout, policies and procedures, as well as learning techniques and the supports, services and facilities available.

examinations rules and regulations is available online at www.ait.ie. Learners and prospective learners are advised to consult this in order to make themselves aware of the responsibilities attaching to a student in AIT. A student’s choice of elective module(s) must be made at the start of the course.

Deferred Entry – Second and Subsequent Years Students seeking to defer a place on the second or subsequent year of a course must request a deferral in writing from the Admissions Office prior to the closing date for the return of the registration form. The applicant must state the reason(s) for seeking the deferral. Students who obtain a deferral must inform the Admissions Officer in writing not later than 1 June of the following year that they are accepting the place. Deferrals are not normally granted for more than one year.

Clárú agus Forchéimnithe Registration and Progression 40

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Attendance, Progression and Entry for Examinations In order to pursue a course of study, to sit examinations, be issued with examination results, and/or graduate, students must maintain satisfactory levels of attendance and academic performance, and must be in good financial standing with the institute. In particular, students must maintain a minimum attendance level of 75% for each module. Students must also satisfactorily complete the schedule of practicals, project work and placement, and all other requirements, as detailed for each course.

Assessment The institute operates a system of continuous assessment in addition to end-of-year examinations. Assessment will occur in various formats and may involve sessional examinations, project work, field-work, oral examinations, etc. The marks obtained in these assessments will normally contribute to the final examination results.

Cessation of or Changes to Courses If a course is no longer offered or changed, it will be examined in its original form for not more than two academic years following the date of change.

2012/2013

n Foundation Certificate Programme

n Certificate in English for Academic Studies

for International (non-EU) students

ClĂĄir BunĂşsacha Foundation Programmes 42

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re an adult learner and wish to embark on a career in social care, engineering, hospitality, business, science or information technology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is the course for you. The Foundation Certificate provides an ideal base if you wish to return to study after a break in your educational experience and if you have not benefited fully from, or had access to, previous educational opportunities.

Minimum Entry Requirements Mature applicants, aged 22 years or over on 1 January on year of commencement are eligible to apply. Candidates aged 21 years are required to have Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination, including Mathematics and a language (English or Irish). The selection procedure involves an interview.

Modules Communications and Study Skills, Mathematics, Information Technology, Educational Guidance, Business Studies and Finance, Social Studies, Science, Engineering.

Progression Successful completion of this programme allows you to apply for entry to higher certificate programmes at AIT. You may also be eligible to apply for entry onto the first year of a suitable ordinary degree programme.

Further Information/ Application Access Office Tel: + 353 (0)90 646 8123 Fax: + 353 (0)90 642 4417 Email: access@ait.ie

Duration 1 year Mode Part-time Level 5 Application to Access Office, AIT Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

2012/2013

Foundation Certificate Programme

COURSE DETAILS

Foundation Certificate Programme

Certificate in English for Academic Studies For International (non-EU) students

This programme provides an effective foundation course for international (non-EU) students who wish to pursue undergraduate studies at AIT. Its principal aim is to equip you with the necessary skills, knowledge, confidence, and English language competence, to continue your education in science, business, hospitality or technologyrelated areas. This programme aims to provide you with n an understanding of English usage,

computing, basic technology, engineering and business; n the opportunity of gaining entry to one

of AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of Engineering, Science, Humanities or Business courses at higher certificate or ordinary degree level for the following academic year (on successful completion of all elements of the course, including examinations).

The course has been designed to:

Modules

n provide you with an introduction to

English, Mathematics, Communications and Life Skills, Cultural Studies, Computing, Introduction to Business Studies, Introduction to Science and Technology.

the technical modules of computing, engineering, science, communications and business studies; n prepare you, both academically and

practically, for entry into full-time higher education programmes; n develop your ability to communicate

effectively in a wide range of business settings and enhance your oral, aural, reading and writing skills in the areas relevant to international trade and commerce; n familiarise you with basics of English

language usage, both verbal and written, so that you can progress with ease from a strong foundation.

Minimum Entry Requirements Entry to the course is based on successful completion of second-level education (equivalent of Leaving Certificate/A-Level examination). The selection procedure will involve completion of an English test. Please note that no prior knowledge of the course subjects is required. Applicants from non-EU countries must hold a valid visa for the duration of the course.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

International students will also have two hours per week available to attend additional English language classes during their undergraduate studies.

Fee A fee is payable by each student undertaking this course. Details of fees are available from the institute.

Further Information/ Application International Office Telephone: + 353 (0)90 646 8273 Fax: + 353 (0)90 642 4627 Email: international@ait.ie

1 year Mode Full-time Level N/a* Application to International Office, AIT Points 2010 N/A Median

N/A Final

2012/2013

Certificate in English for Academic Studies

COURSE DETAILS

Duration

Eoin Langan Head of Business School Email: elangan@ait.ie Tel: + 353 (0)90 646 8290 Owen Ross Head of Department of Business Studies Email: oross@ait.ie Tel: + 353 (0)90 647 1895 Peter Melinn Head of Department of Accounting and Business Computing Email: pmelinn@ait.ie Tel: + 353 (0)90 648 3020

Note In addition to these programmes, the Business School also offers other opportunities through the Department of Adult and Continuing Education on a part-time basis. Please refer to the Department of Adult and Continuing Education’s prospectus for details.

Dámh an Ghnó Business School 46

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Introduction Business and Management Studies

48 50

CAO programmes n Higher Certificate in Business

51 52

n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

53 54 56

68 69

Add-on Level 8 honours degrees & higher diplomas n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

n Bachelor of Science in Business

Computing (Honours) 60

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

in Applied Accounting 58

Add-on Level 7 degrees n Bachelor of Business

in Business Computing

in Accounting and Law

n Bachelor of Business and Law

(Honours)

Ireland Technician course

in Accounting

n Higher Certificate in Business

in Equine Studies

n Accounting Technicians

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

n Higher Certificate in Business

with Music and Instrument Technology

CAO programmes

n Bachelor of Science

n Higher Certificate in Business

in Office Management

Accounting and Business Computing

n Higher Diploma in Computing

77 78

n Bachelor of Business

in Equine Studies

n Bachelor of Business in

International Business Management

Add-on Level 8 honours degrees & higher diplomas n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

n Higher Diploma in Business

2012/2013

Introduction Business is an exciting, challenging and dynamic area within which to work. When you consider how much business impacts on our daily lives, it is easy to see the relevance and benefit of a qualification in this field. Success in a business studies or related programme can be a passport to a rewarding and interesting career.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

The Business School at AIT consists of two departments: Business Studies, and Accounting and Business Computing. The courses offered by the School cover a wide range of areas from accountancy to management, equine studies to computing, and much more. You will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge, develop skills and cultivate attitudes which will help you to fulfil your potential and maximise your career prospects. New programmes are developed on a regular basis, and recent additions to the range of courses on offer include the Bachelor of Business and Law (Hons), and the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting and Law.

The theoretical and practical content of each course is reviewed regularly to ensure that graduates are prepared for the challenges and opportunities to be expected in a variety of careers at appropriate levels. The ‘ladder’ system of qualifications allows you to progress from higher certificate through to honours Bachelor degree, and on to postgraduate studies. The learning process within the Business School takes place in an environment where you have access to modern resources, expert staff knowledge, links with employers and the latest technology. Opportunities exist to study at partner institutions overseas – either on a short-term or a long-term basis – which can add to your educational experience at AIT. The enrolment of international students on courses within the School also enhances the

learning environment. Many of our graduates have become very successful on the national and international stage. We are very proud of their achievements and successes. If you wish to learn more about our programmes of study and related career opportunities, please contact any member of the staff for assistance. You are most welcome to visit the campus; a meeting can be arranged as part of the AIT’s overall focus on student care. Whether you are joining third-level education straight from the Leaving Certificate or as a mature student, the scope for progress is unlimited, provided aptitude and ambition are matched with commitment and effort. The staff of the Business School wish you every success and will be honoured to facilitate your progress.

Department of Business Studies Progression Chart Master of Business/Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Bachelor of Business (Hons) (Level 8) + 1 year

Bachelor of Business (Level 7)

Bachelor of Business in Equine Studies (Level 7)

+ 1 year

Bachelor of Business (Hons) (Level 8)

Bachelor of Business and Law (Hons) (Level 8)

Higher Diploma in Business (Level 8)

4 years ab initio

+ 1 year

2012/2013

Bachelor of Business in International Business Management (Level 7) + 1 year

Higher Certificate in Business in Office Management (Level 6) 2 years

Higher Certificate in Business with Music and Instrument Technology (Level 6)

Higher Certificate in Business (Level 6) 2 years

Higher Certificate in Business in Equine Studies (Level 6) 2 years

2 years START HERE

Business and Management Studies

The business studies programmes at AIT have been designed to help you to acquire knowledge and develop skills for a variety of careers across a wide range of disciplines. The courses described in this prospectus cover not only general business, but also specific sectors and industries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as the equine industry, and the music instrument and technology business. This twin-track approach allows you to develop expert knowledge in a particular area, or, alternatively, to pursue a general business award.

Why Choose Business Studies at AIT? n The Business School has extensive links

with industry, commerce and the public sector, which influences and enriches all programmes. n Our programmes provide excellent

career opportunities for all graduates. n Graduates from our honours degrees

are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education.

A variety of career prospects is available to business graduates. Here are just a few: general management, administration, banking, insurance, retail, human resources, marketing, event management, advertising, public relations, sales, office management and information technology. Rather than working for someone else, you may wish to establish your own business. The skills and knowledge which you develop will also help you achieve this objective. The popularity of the various programmes reflects the relevance of the qualifications on offer.

n Our niche programmes are in

These are challenging times for Irish business and the public sector. Given the economic downturn, as well as increased national and international competition, there is a greater need than ever before for entrepreneurship, vision, imagination and sound business judgement. A business qualification from AIT can help you acquire the required knowledge and develop the necessary skills for a highly successful career. A dedicated staff team will support you fully along the journey.

n Subject to eligibility, you may progress

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

high-growth industries and offer the prospect of exciting, rewarding careers. n Our programmes offer the opportunity

to study the major disciplines in business: accounting, finance, economics, management, marketing, human resources management. to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree level/full professional examinations.

Higher Certificate in Business

This course contains business knowledge and skills which form the basis for a career in industry, commerce or the public service. You will gain an understanding of the functional areas of business and of the factors which influence business success. On graduation, you should be able to use your knowledge and skills to solve technical and human problems in a business/ commercial context. You will also learn how effective interpersonal relations at work contribute to the public image of an organisation and to its progress. Development of your communication skills also forms part of the course. Holders of the higher certificate may apply to join the Bachelor of Business (Level 7) programme at AIT.

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

FETAC Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable; there are no specific module requirements.

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Financial Accounting, Computer Applications, Economics, Marketing, Learning to Learn.

Year 1 – Semester 2

Year 2 – Semester 1 Management Accounting, IT and Computer Applications,

2 years

plus one module from Financial Accounting, Operations Management, Applied Economics

Mode

Year 2 – Semester 2

Full-time

Marketing Management, Human Resource Management plus one module from Services Marketing, Analysis of Financial Institutions, E-business, Insurance and Banking, International Economics, French, Spanish ab initio.

Alternative Access Opportunity Year 1 of this course is also available at the Cavan Institute, Cathedral Road, Cavan. Applicants should contact Cavan Institute for more details (tel. 049 433 2633/433 2805, and email admin@cavaninstitute.ie) Students who successfully complete the examinations at the end of year 1 at this institution are eligible to apply to join year 2 of the course in AIT.

Level 6 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 270

Final 140

Progression As a holder of this qualification you will be eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Business (Level 7) programme at AIT. Alternatively, you may avail of the exemptions granted by one of the professional accountancy bodies and apply for full-time accountancy studies at AIT.

Financial Accounting, Quantitative Techniques, Business Management,

See also progression chart on page 99.

Accreditation As a graduate of the Higher Certificate in Engineering in Electronics and Computer Engineering, you are eligible to apply to Engineers Ireland to use the registered professional title of Engineering Technician.

Career Opportunities The electronics and computer industries offer many opportunities and you may find employment such as computer servicing, computer repairs and the production of computer-controlled equipment, computer networking equipment and also multimedia technology hardware.

Points 2010 Median 235

Final 135

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Electronics and Computer Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

AL601

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering The contemporary world has been transformed by developments in IT, wireless communications and personal computing; changes which have been enabled largely by developments in hardware and software engineering. Computer engineers play a vital role in the research, design, development and installation of the resulting hardware and software. Amongst the areas where computer engineers are employed are mobile phone industry, gaming, medical devices, the internet, smart transport and energy management. This three-year degree will provide you with the education and training necessary for a career in the computer, software and electronics industry. You will develop the necessary theoretical knowledge in areas that are crucial to computer engineering and you will develop skills in computer systems administration and problem solving.

Mathematics, Materials Processes and Practice, Communications and Computer Applications.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Electronics, Digital Systems, Mathematics, Software Development, Business Environment and Systems, Computer Project.

Leaving Certificate Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

Modules Year 1 Digital Electronics, Analogue Electronics and Telecommunication, Software Development,

3 years Mode Full-time

Year 2 – Semester 2 Communications Systems, Digital Systems, Mathematics, Software Development, Computer Project, Business Environment and Systems.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Software Development, Digital Modulation, Embedded Systems, Mobile Computing, Computer Systems Administration, Mathematics.

Year 3 – Semester 2

Minimum Entry Requirements

Duration

Software Development, Data Communications and Networks, Project, Business Environment and Systems, Computer Systems Administration, Mathematics.

Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

Progression As a graduate you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering (Level 8) at AIT or related programmes at other third-level institutions. See also progression chart on page 99.

Career Opportunities Employment opportunities exist in the areas of computer manufacturing, computer maintenance, computer systems administration including PC network support and multimedia technology applications.

2012/2013

101

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

AL704

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications This is the era of wireless communications when information technologies and communications are converging. The main characteristic of this era can be summarised as communication anytime, anywhere, any-media at high data rates. Developments include the mobile internet, the 4G revolution and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. To sustain innovation and growth in the sector, future electronics technicians and engineers must be equipped with the necessary technical expertise and knowledge. A graduate with a combined education in both mobile communication technology and electronics can be invaluable to employers in this sector. This degree is designed to provide the education and training necessary for a career in the wireless communications and electronics industry. You will obtain the necessary theoretical knowledge in areas that are crucial to wireless communications and electronic engineering, develop skills in wireless network technology, as well as developing a systematic approach to problem solving. Crucially, this degree incorporates the industry benchmark, CISCO qualifications. One of these qualifications is the CISCO-HP IT Essentials 1: PC Hardware and Software qualification. This is a major stepping stone for the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+ certification examination to become a certified computer service technician.

102

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time

Level

Modules

Points 2010

Year 1 Mathematics, Analogue Electronics and Telecommunication, Software Development, Digital Electronics, Materials Processes and Practice, Communications and Computer Applications.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Electronics, Mathematics, Communication Systems, Wireless Networks, Software Development, Wireless Project, Business Environment and Systems.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 2 Communication Systems, Wireless Networks, Mathematics, Software Development, Wireless Project, Business Environment and Systems.

7 Application to CAO

Median 230

Final 165

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications

COURSE DETAILS

AL702

Year 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1

Accreditation

Mobile Computing, Digital Modulation, Wireless Networks, Radio Communications, Digital Signal Processing, Mathematics.

As a graduate of the Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications, you are eligible to apply to Engineers Ireland to use the registered professional title of Associate Engineer.

Year 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 2 Business Environment and Systems, Data Communications and Networks, Wireless Networks, Project, Digital Signal Processing, Mathematics.

Progression As a graduate you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering (Level 8) programme at AIT, or related programmes at other third-level institutions.

Career Opportunities Given the serious skills shortage that exists in this area, as a graduate of this degree you are in an excellent position to take up a career as electronics technician, data network/mobile network technician, technical salesperson and software/hardware test technician.

See also progression chart on page 99.

2012/2013

103

Bachelor of Science in Computer Network Management Computer networking is a core function for a majority of organisations. A graduate with a combined education in computer network design, configuration and management will be invaluable to all employers. This course is designed to provide the education and training required to prepare you for a career in the computer network management area. This career could be as a member of an ICT department within an organisation or with a specialist ICT support company. The course incorporates a number of modules which will prepare you to obtain industry accredited certification in addition to the institute award. These include the Cisco CCNA, Cisco Wireless, Cisco IT Essentials and Cisco Security certifications. As a holder of this qualification, you will have acquired the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge in data and voice networks using a variety of media including fixed wire, optical fibre and wireless. You will have acquired skills in the configuration and faultfinding of network devices including PCs, servers, switches, routers and access points. You will understand the nature and extent of the range of network security threats and appropriate protection systems. You will also be introduced to the legal issues associated with data integrity on computer systems and the design and testing of engineering support systems. Furthermore, you will study modules on engineering management, project management and mathematics. Project skills will be developed through group projects undertaken in years 1 and 2, and an individual project in year 3. * In addition to full-time delivery, this degree programme is also available on a part-time and ACCS basis, which is particularly suited to those who are already in employment.

104

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time/ACCS*

Modules Year 1 Mathematics, Analogue Electronics and Telecommunication, Digital Electronics, PC Hardware and Software, Networks, Web Technology.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Mathematics, Business Environment and Systems, Networks, Network Operating Systems, Wireless Networks, Group Project.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Mathematics, Business and IT Infrastructure, Networks, Wireless Networks, Group Project.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Mathematics, Networks, Network Security, Business and Project Management, Networks VOIP, Project.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Mathematics, Law, Ethics, Computers and Society, Network Security, Networks VOIP, Project.

Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 225

Final 130

Bachelor of Science in Computer Network Management

COURSE DETAILS

AL703

Progression

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this course, you are eligible to transfer to add-on degrees of Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Network Management and Cloud Infrastructure or the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering at AIT or other appropriate Level 8 programmes.

Students graduating from this course will be in a position to take up careers as data network technicians, technical salespersons, network administrators, server farm administrators or wide area network providers. It is expected that graduates will find employment in a wide range of sectors including consulting firms, internet service providers (ISPs), local authorities or government departments.

See also progression chart on page 99.

2012/2013

105

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Design (Game Development) This four-year honours degree (Level 8) is designed to provide the education and training required to prepare you for a career in software design. This course specifically includes a specialisation in game development, one of the fastest growth sectors in the IT industry. This career could be as a member of a software development department within an organisation or as a designer developing games, etc. Students wishing to complete the full four years of the programme undertake a six-month industrial placement in the third year of the degree. Game development is one of the fastest growing industries in the entertainment industry. Annual video games sales are approx, €30 billion and are expected to rise to €40 billion in the next four years. Games such as Halo 3, The Orange Box, Super Mario Galaxy and Bioshock are critical and commercial successes. The Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and the iPad continue their explosive growth, all indicating that this is a golden age for game development. Globally, the computer games industry is an area with enormous potential for development. The value of the computer games industry worldwide is in excess of €85 billion. Despite the fact that the games industry in Ireland is in an embryonic stage, it has the potential to grow significantly over the next five to ten years.

106

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

FETAC FETAC applicants to this programme must hold the following award: Information Technology (CITXX). They are also required to have the module Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) or Mathematics for Computing (C20175) included in their award and to have achieved three distinctions.

Modules Year 1 Mathematics, Software Development, Game Development, Web Technology, Communications and Multimedia Applications, Digital Media, Requirements.

Duration 4 years* Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to

Year 2 – Semester 1

CAO

Software Development (Java), Mathematics, Game Development, Software Testing, Databases, Software Development (C+).

Points 2010

Year 2 – Semester 2 Game Development, Group Project, Software Development (C+), Software Development (Java), Mathematics, Networks.

Median 315

Final 265

Year 3 – Semester 1 Operating Systems and Concurrency, Software Development (Java), Software Development (C+), Software Quality and Process Improvement, Multi-core programming, Game Development.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Security; Law, Ethics, Computers and Society; and Project [for students electing to graduate with an ordinary degree], or Placement [for students electing to graduate with an honours degree].

* Students may graduate after three years’ study with an ordinary degree, BSc in Software Design (Game Development)

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Design (Game Development)

COURSE DETAILS

AL802

What our students say…

The Mature Student Experience Barry Gibson

Year 4 – Semester 1 Computer Graphics, Distributed Systems, Management and Organisational Behaviour, Game Technology, Databases, Project.

Year 4 – Semester 2 Networks, Law, Ethics, Computers and Society, Security, Game Technology, Project.

Progression As a graduate of this course, you are eligible to apply to join the Master of Science in Software Engineering at AIT or other appropriate Level 9 programmes. See also progression chart on page 99.

Career Opportunities Students graduating from this course will be in a position to take up careers as game developers, software designers, database programmers and administrators, and technical salespersons. Possible employers include: Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Eircom, IBM, SunSoft, Ericsson, Riverdeep, as well as financial institutions and the public sector. It appears from the general statistics that growth in the game development sector and associated software design areas will be significant over the next ten years. These developments will have a major impact on employment in the IT sector.

‘My name is Barry Gibson. I am 31-year-old father of four and am about to enter my final year as a mature student at AIT, where I am studying for a Bachelor of Science in Software Design (Web Development). Prior to coming to AIT, I undertook a VTOS course where I spent two years studying basic computer programming and web design. I settled into college life quiet easily and was surprised by the amount of mature students studying in AIT, which I think also helped me to find my feet. I found the course itself to be very interesting and challenging in first year. I created my own game for the Game Development module and created a website as part of a group project in the Web Development module. I also gained a good understanding of the basics of Java programming and different web technologies such as JavaScript, CSS, XHTML and XSL. Another aspect of the course that I found excellent is that in first year, all modules are continually assessed, meaning you are constantly gaining marks for your work and obtaining general feedback as to how you are doing in a particular module. This gave me a better understanding of my strengths and weaknesses in each area and allowed me to identify where I needed to improve or work harder. This I found to be a very good and very fair way of grading students and their work. There are also a lot of group projects involved in the course which is also a great way of learning, not only from your mentors but from your fellow students. It also introduces a social aspect to the course as it gets students working together as a team. Another useful support which AIT has to offer is a full-time tutelage service in case you are struggling with a module. The college also has a great atmosphere with a plethora of clubs and sporting activities for anyone who is willing to take part and the college also has its own gym, canteen and library. I have found my first two years at AIT to be challenging and extremely rewarding, and I look forward to my next few years studying. I would highly recommend this course to anyone with an interest in software engineering, web design or game development, as this course aims to encompass all aspects of the web and its component technologies. As this course is industry-driven, it will provide all the necessary skill sets to enable a graduate to pursue a rewarding career in this rapidly growing industry.’

2012/2013

107

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Design (Web Development) This four-year honours degree (Level 8) is designed to provide the education and training required to prepare you for a career in web design. Students wishing to complete the full four years of the programme undertake a six-month industrial placement in the third year of the degree.

Modules

Who knew of Facebook, YouTube, Google, iTunes or eBay ten years ago? Now who doesn’t? This is the power of the web – and it is growing!

Year 2 – Semester 1

Students graduating from this course will be in a position to take up careers as web developers, software designers, database programmers and administrators and technical salespersons. The course incorporates the design, specification, implementation and testing of web-based solutions using Java and .NET development platforms.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Year 1 Mathematics, Software Development, Game Development, Web Technology, Communications and Multimedia Applications, Digital Media, Requirements.

Software Development (Java), Mathematics, Web Development, Software Testing, Databases, Software Development (C#).

Year 2 – Semester 2 Web Development, Group Project, Software Development (C#), Software Development (Java), Mathematics, Networks.

Operating Systems and Concurrency, Software Development (Java), Software Development (C#), Software Quality and Process Improvement, Server-side Technology, Web Development.

Year 3 – Semester 2

Grade C3 at higher level in two subjects, plus Grade D3 at ordinary level in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish). Foundation level Mathematics will not suffice to meet the requirement.

Security; Law, Ethics, Computers and Society; and Project [for students electing to graduate with an ordinary degree], or

FETAC

Computer Graphics, Distributed Systems, Management and Organisational Behaviour, Server-side Technology, Databases, Project.

108

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

4 years* Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO

Year 3 – Semester 1

Leaving Certificate

FETAC applicants to this programme must hold the following award: Information Technology (CITXX). They are also required to have the module Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) or Mathematics for Computing (C20175) included in their award and to have achieved three distinctions.

Duration

Placement [for students electing to graduate with an honours degree].

Year 4 – Semester 1

Year 4 – Semester 2 Networks, Law, Ethics, Computers and Society, Security, Web Development, Project.

Points 2010 Median 300

Final 270

* Students may graduate after three years’ study with an ordinary degree, BSc in Software Design (Web Development)

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Design (Web Development)

COURSE DETAILS

AL803

Career Opportunities Students graduating from this course will be in a position to take up careers as web developers, software designers, database programmers and administrators and technical salespersons. Possible employers include: Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Eircom, IBM, SunSoft, Ericsson, Riverdeep, as well as financial institutions and the public sector. It appears from the general statistics that growth in the web development sector and associated software design areas will be significant over the next ten years. These developments will have a major impact on employment in the IT sector.

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This course will provide you with the education and training necessary for a career in the computer, software and electronics industry. During the course of this degree you will develop the necessary theoretical knowledge in areas that are crucial to computer engineering and you will develop skills in computer systems administration and problem solving.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Engineering (Computer Engineering) or Higher Certificate in Engineering (Electronics and Computer Engineering) or Higher Certificate in Engineering (Electronics Engineering) or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

Modules Semester 1 Software Development, Digital Modulation, Embedded Systems, Mobile Computing, Computer Systems Administration, Mathematics.

Semester 2 Software Development, Data Communications and Networks, Project, Business Environment and Systems, Computer Systems Administration, Mathematics.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Accreditation As a graduate of the Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering, you are eligible to apply to Engineers Ireland to use the registered professional title of Associate Engineer.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

The software industry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; domestically and internationally â&#x20AC;&#x201C; continues to perform strongly and there has been a corresponding increase in the demand for highly qualified graduates with the requisite knowledge and skills in software engineering. In particular, this has created excellent prospects for those holding honours degree qualifications. The market for software includes multimedia training products, telemarketing and related applications software. The software industry is knowledge and skills dependent. It has a high net export value and is ideally suited to wealth generation. This one-year add-on honours degree will give you a solid grounding in software engineering as an academic discipline and secondly, as a profession within the industrial sector. The programme is designed to ensure that you will have expertise in all aspects of software engineering. The fact that the course is run over one year is a real strength in terms of pursuing employment opportunities.

Minimum Entry Requirements Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication Systems or Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering or Bachelor of Engineering in Manufacturing Processes or equivalent (all Level 7 programmes).

Modules

Semester 2 Software Design, The Engineer in Society, Distributed Systems, Client-Side Technologies, Software Management and Practice, Project.

Laboratory Work The laboratory-based elements of the course supplement the theoretical aspects and are used to demonstrate the application of engineering principles to the design, implementation and testing of software and hardware systems. The practical work will facilitate you in becoming proficient in the use of software engineering techniques to support design and quality assurance.

Progression As a graduate from this course you are eligible to apply to join the Master of Science in Software Engineering (Level 9) at AIT. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at the institute are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. Alternatively, you may wish to pursue postgraduate studies at another institution.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

See also progression chart on page 99.

Semester 1 Software Design, Databases, Networks, Server Side Technologies, Software Management and Practice, Project.

Career Opportunities The route to this honours degree has been an intensive one and as such employment prospects are excellent. As a graduate of this course you can expect to find employment as software engineering designers, computer hardware designers, computer network managers, etc. 2012/2013

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Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering

Duration

Computer networking is a key function for most organisations. A graduate with a combined education in advanced computer network design, configuration and management, and cloud infrastructure will be invaluable to all employers.

Minimum Entry Requirements

1 year

Level 7 degree in computer networking or a cognate area with a minimum average mark of 50%, and a CCNA qualification.

Mode

Recent reports indicate that there is a significant shortfall of qualified personnel in this area, and particularly for those holding industry-accredited training. A survey of 950 chief information officers in 31 countries across Europe in 2010 highlights the high demand for networking skills in the areas of security and new network developments, such as IP telephony and wireless networking. These advanced network technology skills shortage in Europe are estimated to reach 384,000 in 2015.

Modules

This honours degree which incorporates the design, specification, analysis and validation of secure advanced IP switched networks and cloud computing is designed to meet this skills shortage in the workplace. As a student on this programme you will learn how to provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to design and analyse complex IP switched networks, to develop virtual and cloud environments, and to securely integrate and manage data, voice and wireless networks. You will also learn how to analyse and prioritise the nature and extent of network security threats and available technologies, and approaches to counter these threats.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Semester 1

Full-time Level

Cloud Infrastructure, Software Engineering and Management Practice, Wireless Sensors, Networks, Security, Project and Quantitative Techniques.

Semester 2

Admissions Office, AIT

Cloud Infrastructure, The Engineer in Society, Network Management, Networks, Security, Project and Quantitative Techniques.

Progression As a graduate from this course you are eligible to apply to join a cognate postgraduate programme in the field of advanced networks, communications and cloud computing. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at the institute are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. Alternatively, you may wish to pursue postgraduate studies at another institution. See also progression chart on page 99.

Career Opportunities As a graduate from this honours degree will be in a position to take up careers as data network managers, specialist technical support, network managers or with internet service providers.

Application to

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Network Management and Cloud Infrastructure

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Network Management and Cloud Infrastructure

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Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers are the wheels of the world. They are involved with almost every aspect of our lives, innovating and designing machines from computers to power generators to medical equipment. According to Engineers Ireland, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mechanical engineering offers graduates a huge variety of career paths across a

The most recent National Skills Bulletin for 2011 specifically highlights the following engineering skills as difficult to source: mechanical (renewable energy) and production (process automation and Six Sigma); areas specifically addressed in this suite of programmes.

wide range of industries including aeronautics, motor entertainment, electronics, medical and information

Why Choose Mechanical Engineering at AIT?

technology.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

n Our degree in mechanical engineering

car and engine development, transport systems,

Mechanical engineers research, develop, design, manufacture and test tools, engines, machines and other mechanical devices. Mechanical engineering is central to the production process of most manufactured goods; it is concerned with the design, construction and operation of machines, the generation and utilisation of power, and the layout and maintenance of industrial plants. Mechanical engineers take into consideration efficiency, effectiveness, safety, environment, and energy conservation in their design work. They are one of the main developers of new innovations such as faster car engines and the emerging fields of nanotechnology and biotechnology. Technological developments are instrumental in producing a degree of convergence between the mechanical and electrical engineering disciplines. Solutions to many of the problems encountered by a mechanical engineer can be facilitated through new computer-based technology and microelectronics, e.g. computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM). Mechanical engineers work in many industries and their duties vary by industry and function. However, most are employed in the design and manufacture of products.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

and renewable energy is designed to help engineers meet the biggest challenge of our age. n The practical focus of the programmes

gives you hands-on experience of areas from robotics to pneumatics and microprocessors, which is highly valued by employers. n Engineers Ireland accreditation available

to graduates of selected programmes. n Graduates from our honours degree are

deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education.

Department of Mechanical Engineering Progression Chart Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Sustainable Energy Engineering (Level 8) + 1 year

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

(Level 7)

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

+ 1 year

(Level 7)

3 years ab initio

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

+ 1 year

(Level 7)

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy (Level 7)

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics (Level 7) 3 years ab initio

3 years ab initio

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (Level 6) 2 years START HERE

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Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering Mechanical engineering is about putting ideas into action. It is about inventing, designing, developing, manufacturing and maintaining products, equipment and machinery of all kinds. Mechanical engineers use their knowledge of materials, mechanisms, power, energy and manufacturing technology to produce specifications for their designs and to see those designs become a reality. They also build and test prototypes of their products in order to prove their designs. Mechanical engineers also have a key role to play in energy utilisation and management recognising their responsibility to the environment and society at large. This higher certificate will provide you with a firm understanding of the theoretical principles and the practical skills required in mechanical engineering.

Modules Year 1 Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Science & Energy Sustainability, Engineering Mechanics, Materials and Processes,

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Engineering Workshop, Drawing and CAD, Communications and Computer Applications.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Engineering Mathematics, Instrumentation, Mechanics (Mechanics of Materials), Energy Systems and Thermofluids, Materials, Engineering Workshop and CAD.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 2 Engineering Mathematics, Control and Power Technology, Mechanics (Mechanics of Machines), Energy Systems and Thermofluids, Processes and Operations Management, Mini project.

Progression As a holder of this higher certificate you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (addon Level 7) or the Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy (add-on Level 7) at AIT or related Level 7 programmes at other third-level institutions. See also progression chart on page 115.

Accreditation As a graduate of the Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, you are eligible to apply to Engineers Ireland to use the registered professional title of Engineering Technician.

Career Opportunities When you graduate as a mechanical engineering technician, you may expect to find employment in production, technical supervision, plant maintenance, quality assurance and production planning, or possibly as a draughts person in manufacturing industry.

Duration 2 years Mode Full-time Level 6 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 260

Final 200

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

AL602

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering Mechanical engineering is about putting ideas into action. It is about inventing, designing, developing, manufacturing and maintaining products, equipment and machinery of all kinds. Mechanical engineers use their knowledge of materials, mechanisms, power, energy and manufacturing technology to produce specifications for their designs and to see those designs become a reality. They also build and test prototypes of their products in order to prove their designs. Mechanical engineers also have a key role to play in energy utilisation and management recognising their responsibility to the environment and society at large. This three-year degree will educate and train skilled personnel in the area of mechanical engineering, management, control and maintenance as applied to industrial settings. It will equip you to work as an independent thinker and to work effectively with others, recognising the importance of continuing education and self-directed learning. As a graduate, you will have the capability to critically appraise mechanical engineering systems, to identify areas of potential improvement, to bring about corrective action and where applicable, to suggest and implement an alternative solution. You will also study and work to high ethical standards with regard to the engineering profession and environment.

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate

Modules

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level

Year 1

Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Science & Energy Sustainability, Engineering Mechanics, Materials and Processes, Engineering Workshop, Drawing and CAD, Communications and Computer Applications.

Application to

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Engineering Mathematics, Instrumentation, Mechanics (Mechanics of Materials), Energy Systems and Thermofluids, Materials, Engineering Workshop and CAD.

CAO Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

Year 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Mechanical Engineering Project, Quantitative Methods, Control and Automation, Mechanical Systems Design, Energy Systems and Thermofluids, Business and Project Management.

Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

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Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

AL710

Year 3 – Semester 2 Engineering Mathematics, Control and Automation, Systems Design and Vibrations, Manufacturing Systems and Organisation Management, Mechanical Engineering Project, Energy Systems and Thermofluids.

Progression As a holder of this qualification, you will possess the necessary theoretical underpinning to enable progression to the Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Sustainable Energy Engineering at AIT. You will also be in a position to apply for Level 8 programmes offered in other third level institutions. See also progression chart on page 115.

Career Opportunities As a graduate from this degree, you will be in a position to apply for a variety of mechanical engineering roles in the following areas: in private industry – designing, developing, manufacturing and maintaining products, equipment and machinery of all kinds; as a consulting engineer – work may include building services, mechanical engineering, design; and in private industry and semistate bodies – power generation, transport, environmental technologies, etc. The institute would expect that graduates will gain membership status with the relevant professional bodies and that many of the top graduates will ultimately reach a high level within the engineering sectors as well as progressing to further studies.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy Mechanical engineers are traditionally concerned with how to design and implement safe, reliable, environmentally sound, and cost effective systems. Further to this requirement, mechanical engineers have an increasing responsibility in optimising the cost of energy sources they choose. While oil has been the main source of energy for the provision of electricity to industry, new options are available in the form of solar, geothermal, and biofuels. Mechanical engineers require the technical skills to select, implement and integrate the most effective and efficient energy sources. Optimisation of energy management also incorporates recycling, designing more efficient processes, better product design and continuous measurement of costs, which is also the responsibility of the mechanical engineer. This Level 7 degree will educate and train skilled personnel in the area of energy consumption, management and control, as applied to industrial and manufacturing settings. It will give you the capability to critically appraise energy demands, to identify areas of energy waste, to bring about corrective action and where applicable to suggest and implement an alternative energy strategy. You will learn the environmental loading of the given process/plant and be committed to its reduction, either in terms of the product, the materials or the process. You will also possess high ethical standards with regard to the engineering profession and environment. As a graduate you will have the skills necessary for professional communication both within the engineering community and society at large.

Duration 3 years* Mode Full-time

FETAC Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable. Applicants to this programme are required, however, to have the module Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) included in their award.

Modules Year 1 Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Science & Energy Sustainability, Engineering Mechanics, Materials and Processes, Engineering Workshop, Drawing & CAD, Communications and Computer Applications.

Year 2 – Semester 1

Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 350

Final 290

Engineering Mathematics, Instrumentation, Mechanics (Mechanics of Materials), Energy Systems & Thermofluids, Materials, Engineering Workshop & CAD.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Engineering Mathematics, Control & Power Technology, Mechanics (Mechanics of Machines), Energy Systems & Thermofluids, Processes & Operations Management, Mini project.

* Students may graduate after two years’ study with a Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Quantitative Methods, Renewable Energy Systems, Building Services, Business & Project Management, Energy Systems & Thermofluids, Renewable Energy Project.

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Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

COURSE DETAILS

AL711

Year 3 – Semester 2

Career Opportunities

Engineering Mathematics, Environmental & Business Management, Building Services, Energy & Sustainability, Renewable Energy Systems, Renewable Energy Project.

As a graduate from this degree, you will be in a position to apply for a variety of careers including: consulting engineers – work may include building services, energy management and building energy rating; utilities engineering/management integrating renewable and non-renewable energy options; mechanical engineers – process development and maintenance; semi-state organisations – work may include the design and management of renewable energy projects for companies such as the ESB and Bord na Móna; government projects in renewable energy; and in the developing energy supply sector.

Progression As a holder of this qualification, you will possess the necessary theoretical underpinning to enable progression to the Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Sustainable Energy Engineering (Level 8) at AIT. You will also be in a position to apply for Level 8 programmes offered in other third level institutions. See also progression chart on page 115.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

AIT would expect that graduates will pursue professional status and that many of the top graduates will ultimately reach a high level within the engineering sectors as well as progressing to postgraduate studies.

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics Mechatronics is defined as the integration of manufacturing engineering with electronics and computer control. An increasing number of modern products and processes rely on the interaction of complex mechanical, electronic and computer components. Industrial robots, cash dispensing machines and intricate healthcare devices incorporate all of these technologies. The efficient design, manufacture and maintenance of these systems require the contribution of technicians and engineers with a broad range of skills in mechanical, electronic and computer engineering. This course has been developed in direct response to industrial demand for technicians with multi-disciplinary skills. It offers you the unique opportunity of becoming trained technicians in this rapidly developing field. When you graduate from this degree you should be capable of integrating the disciplines of mechanical, electronic and computer engineering. An emphasis on teamwork and a broad technical ability will make you an invaluable link between professionals with diverse engineering skills.

Modules Year 1 Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Science & Energy Sustainability, Engineering Mechanics, Electronic Technology, Engineering Workshop, Drawing and CAD, Communications and Computer Applications.

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to CAO

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Engineering Mathematics, Instrumentation, Mechanics of Materials, Electronic Technology, Computer Technology, Computer Aided Design.

Points 2010 Median 265

Final 170

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 2 Control and Power Technology, Electrical Technology, Mechanics of Machines, Costing, Mechatronics Practice.

Year 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Quantitative Methods, Control and Automation, Mechatronics System Design, Human Machine Interfaces, Business and Project Management, Mechatronics Mathematics, Mechatronics Project.

Investing in your future 2012/2013

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Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics

COURSE DETAILS

AL712

What our graduates say…

Putting Theory into Practice Richard Muldoon ‘Looking back on my decision to pursue mechanical engineering at AIT, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The qualifications I achieved at AIT have kept me in constant employment since I left the college. Initially I completed a National [now Higher] Certificate in Mechanical Engineering, followed by a Diploma in Manufacturing Processes. These enabled me to get an interview with Intel Ireland Ltd and secure a job with them. I worked primarily in the servicing and maintenance of microprocessor manufacturing machines which are based on a combination of electrical and mechanical engineering aspects such as that of pneumatics, vacuum, networking, RF, thermodynamics, etc which to a large extent are a practical extension of the theory I had covered in my studies. From an academic point of view, AIT prepared me for the challenges that working life has thrown at me and I found that many of the lecturers, with their previous industrial experiences, were able to draw on real life situations to back up classroom material. After a number of years in employment, I took a year out and returned to AIT to complete an honours degree. I found the broad range of modules covered from computer programming modules to safety and environmental legislation really gives a student an excellent base to work from in an engineering capacity. The lean, six sigma and team based modules have proven particularly useful since my return to my job at Intel where cost savings and defect reduction are always flavour of the month. Also the manufacturing and people management techniques I learned on the course have helped me develop into a more engineering and coordination role. AIT has certainly served me well and my time there was time well spent. Whenever I meet friends or acquaintances from the college, we look back at the good old days!’

Year 3 – Semester 2 Mechatronics Mathematics, Control and Automation, Mechatronics System, Computer Networks, Manufacturing Systems and Organisation Management, Mechatronics Project.

Projects/Practicals Most modules incorporate practical elements in which you develop ‘hands-on’ experience of areas including robotics, electronics assembly, computer aided design, mechanics workshop, microprocessors, hydraulics, pneumatics and electrical machines. To develop teamwork skills, groups of students undertake short mechatronics projects structured within a realistic project management framework. In the final year, you will individually undertake a project incorporating the design and construction of a complete mechatronics system.

Progression When you graduate from this programme you are eligible to apply to join the one-year, add-on Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Sustainable Energy Engineering (Level 8) programme at AIT, or related Level 8 programmes at other third-level institutions. See also progression chart on page 115.

Accreditation As a graduate of the Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics, you are eligible to apply to Engineers Ireland to use the registered professional title of Associate Engineer.

Career Opportunities As a mechatronics technician you can expect to find employment with any company that uses machines to assemble or manufacture products. Your work will generally involve the installation and on-going maintenance of computer controlled equipment such as robotic devices.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

This add-on Level 7 degree will educate and train skilled personnel in the area of mechanical engineering, management, control and maintenance as applied to industrial settings. It will equip you to work as an independent thinker and to work effectively with others, recognising the importance of continuing education and self-directed learning. As a graduate, you will have the capability to critically appraise mechanical engineering systems, to identify areas of potential improvement, to bring about corrective action and where applicable, to suggest and implement an alternative solution. You will also study and work to high ethical standards with regard to the engineering profession and environment.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering or an approved Level 6 qualification.

Modules Semester 1 Mechanical Engineering Project, Quantitative Methods, Control and Automation, Mechanical Systems Design, Energy Systems and Thermofluids, Business and Project Management.

Career Opportunities As a graduate from this degree, you will be in a position to apply for a variety of mechanical engineering roles in the following areas: in private industry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designing, developing, manufacturing and maintaining products, equipment and machinery of all kinds; as a consulting engineer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; work may include building services, mechanical engineering, design; and in private industry and semistate bodies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; power generation, transport, environmental technologies, etc. The institute would expect that graduates will gain membership status with the relevant professional bodies and that many of the top graduates will ultimately reach a high level within the engineering sectors as well as progressing to further studies.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Semester 2 Engineering Mathematics, Control and Automation, Systems Design and Vibrations, Manufacturing Systems and Organisation Management, Mechanical Engineering Project, Energy Systems and Thermofluids.

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Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

This one-year add-on Level 7 degree will educate and train skilled personnel in the area of energy consumption, management and control, as applied to industrial and manufacturing settings. It will give you the capability to critically appraise energy demands, to identify areas of energy waste, to bring about corrective action and where applicable to suggest and implement an alternative energy strategy. You will learn the environmental loading of the given process/plant and be committed to its reduction, either in terms of the product, the materials or the process. You will also possess high ethical standards with regard to the engineering profession and environment. As a graduate you will have the skills necessary for professional communication both within the engineering community and society at large.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering or an approved Level 6 qualification.

Modules Semester 1 Quantitative Methods, Renewable Energy Systems, Building Services, Business & Project Management, Energy Systems & Thermofluids, Renewable Energy Project.

Semester 2 Engineering Mathematics, Environmental & Business Management, Building Services, Energy & Sustainability, Renewable Energy Systems, Renewable Energy Project.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Career Opportunities As a graduate from this degree, you will be in a position to apply for a variety of careers including: consulting engineers – work may include building services, energy management and building energy rating; utilities engineering/management integrating renewable and non-renewable energy options; mechanical engineers – process development and maintenance; semi-state organisations – work may include the design and management of renewable energy projects for companies such as the ESB and Bord na Móna; government projects in renewable energy; and in the developing energy supply sector. AIT would expect that graduates will pursue professional status and that many of the top graduates will ultimately reach a high level within the engineering sectors as well as progressing to postgraduate studies.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

This add-on honours degree aims to facilitate the changing needs of industry, government and society in general, and to meet the career needs of students. The programme will be delivered through a combination of lectures, laboratory practicals, individual and group assignments, interactive workshops, site visits and guest speakers.

Progression When you have completed this degree, you may proceed to postgraduate studies at AIT or at other third-level institutions in Ireland and abroad. Full details of postgraduate opportunities at the institute are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 115.

Minimum Entry Requirements Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy or the Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (both Level 7 programmes) or a degree in any relevant engineering discipline or an equivalent Level 7 qualification.

Modules

Career Opportunities Graduates from this programme may seek employment in virtually any sector and may be employed as sustainable energy engineers, energy managers, consulting engineers (building services, renewable energy systems, building energy rating), utilities engineering/ management, mechanical engineers (design, process development, maintenance) or in civil/construction engineering.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Semester 1 Sustainable Energy Economics, Building Energy Control Systems, Electrical Energy Systems.

Semester 2 Energy and the Environment, Building Energy Control Systems, Sustainable Energy Management, Energy Storage and Distribution, Energy Storage & Distribution, Micro Power Generation.

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Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Sustainable Energy Engineering

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Sustainable Energy Engineering

Plastics/Polymer Engineering

Materials, both natural and synthetic, have been used for many years in an attempt to alleviate the diseases and misfortunes that affect the functioning of the human body. The range of potential solutions is enormous: from simple contact applications, such as plastic lenses for the eye, through wound closure methods – adhesives and sutures – to the use of permanently implanted devices, including hip and

The institute’s track record in providing undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in this area and its research success through AIT’s Bioscience Research Institute (BRI) and the Materials Research Institute (MRI), highlight that AIT is very well placed to continue to provide the medical device/healthcare sector with graduates and postgraduates having the requisite skills to ensure the industry’s long term growth.

knee replacement, cardiac pacemakers and coronary stenting. Over 2,100 coronary stenting procedures are done in Ireland every year. According to the Irish Medical Device Association (IMDA) and the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, the requirement for people with engineering, scientific, technician, sales and purchasing skills will continue to rise and the demand for those qualified to Masters and PhD level will also increase. The industry is likely to see a move towards greater numbers of engineers, scientists, analysts and technicians. AIT has long been a pioneer in the area of polymer science and technology at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and in more recent years in the area of biomedical materials at postgraduate level. It is noteworthy that of 500-plus graduates from the previous honours degree in polymer technology, one-third are employed in the healthcare/medical device sector. One of the recommendations produced by the Expert Group was that there is a need to introduce programmes which bring together mechanical, electronic and biosciences technologies. The honours degree in biomedical technology offered by AIT was designed to meet exactly those needs and the response of employers to the curriculum has been overwhelmingly positive.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Why Choose Plastics/ Polymer Engineering at AIT? n AIT has been a pioneer in plastics/

polymer engineering in Irish higher education. n Graduates from previous programmes in

this area have enjoyed fantastic career success. n Extensive range of related research-based

and taught postgraduate opportunities offered by AIT. n Collaborations with industry ensure

an enriched and authentic learning experience.

Department of Plastics/Polymer Engineering Progression Chart Honours Degree Opportunities (Levels 8)

Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer Processing (Level 7) + 2 years part-time START HERE

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The Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer Processing is a two-year add-on degree, which was developed specifically by AIT and IT Sligo at the request of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plastics industry. Graduates from the Level 7 programme will be eligible to advance from process technician level to technician engineering positions in their employment. Learners on the programme will benefit from the combined expertise and capabilities of IT Sligo and AIT. IT Sligo is a leading provider of online programmes and has been extremely successful in delivering a range of specialist courses for those in full-time employment. AIT has considerable expertise and stateof-the-art laboratory facilities in the polymer technology area and many of the people currently employed in the plastics industry are graduates from Athlone. The first semester of the degree will be delivered from IT Sligo, while the second semester will be delivered from AIT. Apart from a small number of practical laboratory sessions, the course will be delivered entirely online, with each student receiving extensive tutor support. A key objective of the programme is to advance participantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; skills in applying their knowledge to produce practical solutions to problems. They will also gain experience in the use of Six Sigma, a critical tool in the enhancement of industry efficiency. Learners will also benefit from working in individual, team and multidisciplinary settings; while gaining an understanding of the need for high ethical standards in the practice of manufacturing.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Minimum Entry Requirements Applicants must hold a Higher Certificate (Level 6) or equivalent qualification in an appropriate engineering discipline, or a National Craft Certificate or Advanced Craft Certificate in an appropriate discipline, with adequate industrial experience, or an equivalent qualification.

Modules CIM and Automation Technology, ComputerAided Design and Modelling, Energy and Utilities Management, Materials for the Polymer Industry, Mathematics, Medical Device Manufacturing, Polymer Processing, Polymer Tooling: Design and Manufacture, Project

Progression Graduates of this programme may progress to a Level 8 qualifications in mechanical engineering at AIT and at other institutions.

Professional Recognition This course was developed at the instigation of First Polymer Training (FPT) which is Plastics Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training provider.

Career Opportunities Graduates from the Level 7 programme will be eligible to advance from process technician level to technician engineering positions in their employment.

Duration 2 years Mode Part-time Level 7 Application to Admissions Office

Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer Processing

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer Processing

What our graduates say…

At the Heart of the Matter Michael McNamara

‘I joined Medtronic straight after graduating from AIT with a degree in polymer technology. I had previously worked with the company on a student placement programme during my final year in college. While a polymer degree may seem very specialised, in reality any degree in science or engineering opens a wide range of opportunity. In fact the polymer degree that I studied for has now been succeeded by a new degree in biomedical technology at AIT. Initially I worked as part of the engineering team responsible for the implementation, validation and support of the manufacturing lines for Medtronic’s drug coated stent, Endeavor. As my career progressed and opportunities arose I spent the second half of 2005 in Santa Rosa, California working as part of the R&D team responsible for developing Medtronic’s next generation drug eluting stent (DES). During this period I gained an understanding of the mechanisms behind controlled drug release and the complexity and challenges of developing such products and processes. At the same time I also got to see a new part of the world and experience new cultures. After transferring the new Resolute DES product to Galway, I now hold a lead role responsible for the manufacturing of the drug coated stent. My main responsibilities are to support, develop and control the manufacturing of the device. To be involved in the design of such invasive products and follow the design through manufacture to a commercially approved level brings a real since of achievement and pride. Spending time at live procedures with doctors who use the products and see at first hand the benefits reaped by people who receive the products makes every day worthwhile. The working environment in Medtronic is extremely friendly and helpful which is very important as people work to achieve project timelines and career goals. A well defined personal development plan and excellent education support helps you relies your full potential.’

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Engineering Trades – Apprenticeship Courses

AIT provides block release (Level 6)* courses for the following trades:

Course Structure

Motor Mechanic

Phases 1, 3, 5 and 7 are on-the-job phases.

Heavy Vehicle Mechanic Plumber * While these National Craft Certificates have been placed as a set at Level 6, there are Level 7 outcomes associated with awards in the set. This placement does not preclude the possibility of existing National Craft Certificate programmes being validated at Level 7.

These courses are offered in association with FÁS, the training and employment authority, and are accredited by the Further Education and Training Awards Council

Phases 2, 4 and 6 are off-the-job phases. Phase 2 (junior stage), duration 20 weeks, is spent at a FÁS Training Centre. Phases 4 and 6 (senior stages), duration 10 or 11 weeks each, are spent at an institute of technology. Structured ongoing assessment gives more comprehensive and valid evidence of attainment during apprenticeship.

(FETAC).

Accreditation FÁS has legal responsibility for the organisation and control of apprentice training and education in the designated occupations, including registering of apprentices and monitoring and recording their progress through all phases of the apprenticeship. At present AIT participates in the Standards-Based Apprenticeship Scheme. To facilitate apprentices to achieve these standards, the new scheme provides alternating phases of on-the-job and off-the-job training and education, in conjunction with FÁS Training Centres and institutes of technology.

On successful completion of the StandardsBased Apprenticeship, the apprentice will receive a National Craft Certificate. This nationally and internationally recognised certificate is a compulsory requirement for craftsperson status.

Modules The curricula, based on uniform, pre-specified and industry-agreed standards, are written by subject matter experts nominated by employers, trades unions, FÁS and the Department of Education and Science, to ensure that apprenticeship meets the current and future needs of Irish industry.

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Trade of Motor Mechanic Phase 4 or Phase 6 Apprentice block-release course of 10-weeks’ duration. One course is conducted during each institute term (total of 3 courses per year), with 16 apprentices admitted to each course.

Trade of Heavy Vehicle Mechanic

Trade of Plumber

Phase 4 or Phase 6

Apprentice block-release course of 11-weeks’ duration.

Apprentice block-release course of 10-weeks’ duration. Two courses are conducted during each institute term (total of 6 courses per year), with 16 apprentices admitted to each course.

Phase 4 or Phase 6

Four courses are conducted during each institute term (total of 12 courses per year), with 16 apprentices admitted to each course.

Applications for Block-Release Courses Do not apply for entry to these courses through the CAO system. Entry is open only to apprentices who are already employed in a relevant trade and registered with FÁS by their employer For details of entry to a trade, please contact FÁS.

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Dr Marian Fitzgibbon Head of School of Humanities Email: mfitzgibbon@ait.ie Tel: + 353 (0)90 647 1802 Vacant Head of Department of Humanities John O’Hara Head of Department of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Studies Email: johara@ait.ie Tel: + 353 (0)90 647 1894

Note In addition to the above courses, the School also offers a comprehensive range of courses through the Department of Adult and Continuing Education’s part-time schedules. Please refer to the Department of Adult and Continuing Education’s prospectus for details.

Dámh na nDaonnachtaí School of Humanities 132

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Introduction

134

Social Studies/Social Care

136

CAO programmes

in Sport and Recreation 138 140

in Social Care Practice

142

144 145

in Sport Management 146 147 148

CAO programmes

168

Add-on Level 8 honours degrees in Management in Tourism and Sport

152

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in

Design in Visual Communications 154 Add-on Level 8 honours degrees

169

n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

in Tourism and Hospitality Management

n Bachelor of Arts in Design

171

Fáilte Ireland programmes n Diploma in Restaurant

Management

172

n Advanced Certificate

in Professional Cookery

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

in Design in Digital Media

167

n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

(Communications)

and Spa Management

n Bachelor of Business

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

Design

165

Add-on Level 7 degrees

Add-on Level 8 honours degrees

in Childcare Management

and Leisure Management n Bachelor of Arts in Hotel

n Bachelor of Arts in Childcare

in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

n Bachelor of Arts in Tourism

n Bachelor of Arts in Hotel

n Bachelor of Arts in Applied

Management

162

and Guest Services Management 164

Add-on Level 7 degrees Social Studies in Social Care

161

n Higher Certificate in Arts –

Culinary Arts

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

160

n Higher Certificate in Arts –

Bar Supervision

n Higher Certificate in Childcare

Supervisory Management

158

CAO programmes n Higher Certificate in Business

n Higher Certificate in Arts

in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Studies

156

n Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts

174 175

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Introduction It is widely acknowledged that human expertise or intellectual capital is the engine for our technologically-driven economy. Problem-solving and communication are critical skills for innovation. Humanities has a central role to play in this process, in developing a better understanding of the very rapid changes taking place in Ireland and elsewhere, and in cultivating creative and analytical skills to assess the direction in which we are headed.

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Those shaped by a humanities environment have much to contribute to the development of the individual in a way that will benefit society as a whole. A balanced society with a sustainable quality of life is essential if longterm economic prosperity is to be achieved. Humanities programmes in AIT range from social and child care to graphic design and multimedia. They combine disciplines such as sociology and psychology, recreation and health, music and technology. Such convergence in academic programmes mirrors what happens in the real world and promotes an approach that is at the heart of innovation. The School also offers education and training opportunities for careers in the hospitality, culinary, tourism and leisure industries, as well as the growing arena of sport and recreation.

The Departments of Humanities, and Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Studies create well-rounded, adaptable graduates with the capacity to adjust to the everchanging professional environment. The programmes offered by the School provide a high quality education and training experience to all students who opt for them. The study of languages (French and Spanish) as an elective in other programmes is also a vital part of what we have to offer. A highlyqualified and committed team of lecturers and a modern language laboratory with internet access and opportunities for autonomous learning are the gateway to a variety of stimulating careers. Our committed and professional staff will be glad to address any queries you may have.

Department of Humanities Social Studies/Social Care Programme Progression Chart Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Childcare Management

(Level 8)

+ 1 year

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

Bachelor of Arts in Childcare Management

(Level 7)

+ 1 year

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Care Practice (Level 8)

(Level 7)

+ 1 year

Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

Higher Certificate in Childcare Supervisory Management

(Level 6)

2 years

2 years START HERE

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Social Studies/Social Care/ Childcare

Social studies/social care is about providing care, protection, welfare and advocacy in a professional fashion to people who are vulnerable. This is achieved through the planning, delivery and evaluation of programmes of care to individuals and groups. These programmes are based on identified needs and established best practice and in-depth knowledge of life-span development.

Examples of various settings within which a social care professional may work include: n Residential care setting with children

in community-based residential care, high support and special care setting n Reformatory and industrial schools n Young people in after-care setting

in the community n Child protection teams n Family support setting

In employment terms the need for social care professionals is a growing one in Ireland. Approximately 8,000 people work in a care staff capacity in the disability services and some 1,300 people are employed in the residential child care services, to mention just two areas.

n Youth and community work

As a social care graduate you will be able to apply the principles of care to the most vulnerable individuals within the community, young and old. In order to become a reflective practitioner, you will get to connect formal learning in a college-based environment with the experiental, hands-on learning you encounter on work placement. Work placements are an essential part of your learning experience. They facilitate real learning where strengths and weaknesses can be safely explored, as you will work under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. This builds on the theory you will learn at lectures, workshops and experiential demonstrations.

n Child psychiatry outpatient and in-

You may undertake placements in residential agencies, as project work or day services. Opportunities also exist to undertake international placements.

n Services for young people who are

homeless or suffer with addiction n Specialist pre-schools

patient setting n Schools for children with behavioural

disorders n Remand and young offender schools n Hospice care for children n Homelessness and adults n Ethnic minorities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; refugee asylum n Refuges for domestic violence n Older people in residential or community

settings

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

The following are examples of the intellectual disability sector settings within which a social care professional may work n Residential centres for children and adults

with intellectual disabilities n Schools and day centres for children with

intellectual disabilities n Respite and specialist support services

for children and adults with intellectual disabilities n Respite and residential facilities for

children and adults with autism n Support in schools for children with

autism, Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome and ADHD n Supporting families in the home with

children with intellectual disabilities n Residential centres for children and adults

Why Choose Social Studies/Social Care/ Childcare at AIT?

n The School of Humanities is dedicated

n Extensive periods of work placement

n Lecturers have extensive experience of

are an intrinsic part of our programmes, which gives students valuable practical experience highly valued by employers. Placement settings include residential agencies, community-based projects, youth work, etc.

to the pursuit of excellence in teaching and research and offers progression to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and doctoral studies. the private, public and voluntary sectors which enriches their teaching.

n Attractive and accessible for mature

students, with one-fifth of students aged over 23-years. n AIT is a pioneer in developing the

academic field of social studies and social care in Irish higher education.

with physical disabilities n Schools for children with physical

disabilities n Respite centres for children and adults

with physical disabilities.

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Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care Duration

This course will provide you with a knowledge and skills foundation for different areas of professional social care work. You will develop a fuller understanding of your own behaviour and are expected to become more sensitive and successful in a work situation. On completion of this course, you will be capable of coping and interacting effectively with people and situations in a variety of work settings. Work placements (minimum total period of 10 weeks) form an essential part of the course and are undertaken in second year of this higher certificate programme.

Garda Vetting Procedure

Year 1 – Semester 1

* This programme is also available on a parttime basis through the Department of Adult and Continuing Education (telephone 090 648 3050 or www.ait.ie).

Introduction to Sociology, Applied Social Studies, Learning to Learn, Introduction to Law.

Application to

Minimum Entry Requirements

Modern Irish Politics, French, Spanish ab initio.

Leaving Certificate

Year 1 – Semester 2

Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

Development Psychology, Applied Social Studies, Interactional Approaches to Social Care,

Note

Modern Irish Politics, French, Spanish ab initio.

A B2 in Alternative Leaving Certificate Mathematics or Foundation Level Mathematics will be accepted as meeting the minimum Mathematics requirements for entry to this course. See page 34 for further details.

FETAC Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable. Applicants to this programme are required, however, to have one of the modules Social Studies (G20031) or Care Provision and Practice (D20003) or Intellectual Disability Studies (D20169) or Care of the Older Person (D20180) or Care of People with Mental Illness (D20179) included in their award.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

All students on this programme will undertake Garda vetting procedures prior to commencing their work placement. Failure to disclose previous convictions will result in students being dismissed from the programme. Previous convictions, depending on their nature, could result in student dismissal from the programme.

Modules

plus one module from

Year 2 – Semester 1 Emotional and Behavioural Problems in Childhood and Adolescence, Personal Development and Communications, Applied Social Studies, Family and Human Rights, Introduction to Health Promotion. plus one module from Politics of Welfare, French, Spanish ab initio.

2 years Mode Full-time* Level

CAO Points 2010 Median 350

Final 315

Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

COURSE DETAILS

AL664

What our graduates say…

Social Care – Something Different Every Day Orla Matthews ‘I attended Athlone Institute of Technology for the best part of four years. Moving from the big smoke (Dublin) to what I thought was rural Ireland was one of the best decisions I ever made in relation to my career. I very quickly discovered that Athlone was far from the rural place I had imagined it to be.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Fundamentals of Social Policy, Applied Social Studies, Interactional Approaches to Social Care, Disability: Models and Practices plus one module from Public Policy Advoacy, French, Spanish ab initio. A placement of 10 weeks’ duration must be completed in an approved setting.

Alternative Access Opportunity Year 1 of this course is also available at Cavan Institute, Cathedral Road, Cavan. Applicants should contact Cavan for more details (tel. 049 433 2633/433 2805, email: admin@ cavaninstitute.ie). Students who successfully complete the examinations at the end of year 1 at this centre are eligible to apply to join year 2 of the course in AIT.

Progression As a graduate of this programme, you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care (Level 7) at the institute or related Level 7 programmes at other third-level institutions.

The college was a place of ongoing atmosphere and a place where many people including lecturers and my classmates made me feel right at home. The friends I made and the variety of modules involved in this course has probably led me to where I am today. Social Studies is a varied course which means you can work almost anywhere in the social care field. The course equipped me with the basic tools you need for the job and opens your eyes to the social issues we face here in Ireland. By doing this course I now work as a relief social care worker for the Brothers of Charity. This means you are involved in the everyday lives of people with disabilities and try to enable them to participate in the community and become valued members of society. I also work as a childcare worker for Galway Childcare Committee. The project enables the non-resident parent or in some cases both parents to see their children in a comfortable and safe environment. This is the only service of its kind in the whole of Ireland at present. What I love about social care is that every day is different. You meet so many people who do wonderful things for those who are vulnerable in our society and you learn from other people’s experiences in various areas. The memories I will take with me from AIT will last a lifetime and I am truly grateful for that.’

See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities The course provides suitable training to enable graduates to pursue a variety of career opportunities. These include employment in the food, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries; in research and development laboratories, in ensuring the safety of new products; and in regulatory agencies concerned with the monitoring and control of toxic agents. With the recent enactment of environmental legislation, several graduates of this course have obtained employment as environmental science technicians. 2012/2013

185

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Toxicology

COURSE DETAILS

AL733

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Toxicology Environmental toxicology is a branch of toxicology that became established in the mid-1960s. In essence, it is the multidisciplinary study of the effects and detection of toxic substances in the environment. Environmental toxicology draws upon both basic and applied scientific knowledge to understand natural and anthropogenic (man-made) pollutantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; life cycle and their impact on structures and functions of biological and ecological systems. In this programme, the effects of environmental toxins will be investigated at the level of molecules, cells, tissues, organs, organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems. The main questions posed by environmental toxicologists are: how pollutant causes harmful effects, how can we measure the extent of the effects, and what can we do to prevent or minimise the risk to biological and ecological systems? As well as possessing specialist scientific knowledge, environmental toxicologists are required to have strong communication skills (written and oral), IT skills, time management skills and the ability to work as part of a team. Graduates of this course will acquire an indepth understanding and appreciation of the complexities of environmental toxicology while mastering competencies in the practical in-vivo and in-vitro assessment of toxicants. This unique three-year ab initio level 7 degree programme provides an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in environmental toxicology. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical and manufacturing companies, government environmental and regulatory agencies, health services (among others).

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

In addition, the recent enactment of a European Union Directive called REACH, which deals with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances, mandates the environmental toxicity assessment of chemicals which are in common use.

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects, Grade D3 in Mathematics at ordinary level, plus three subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. Subjects to include a language (English or Irish).

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to CAO

Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Toxicology

COURSE DETAILS

AL732

Year 3

Career Opportunities

Biochemical & Forensic Toxicology, Ecotoxicology, Analytical & Forensic Toxicology, Toxicological Pathology, Genotoxicology, Environmental Biotechnology, Environmental Toxicology and Occupational Regulatory Affairs.

The course provides suitable training to enable graduates to pursue a variety of career opportunities. These include employment in the food, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries; in research and development laboratories, in ensuring the safety of new products; and in regulatory agencies concerned with the monitoring and control of toxic agents. With the recent enactment of environmental legislation, several graduates of this course have obtained employment as environmental science technicians.

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Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology According to a recent report from the Forfás Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, Ireland is emerging as a leading location for biopharmaceuticals with a mix of start-ups, high growth SMEs and large multinationals located here. Industry leaders including Pfizer, Eli Lilly, Genzyme, Merck, Elan (based in Athlone), GeneMedix and Allergan have significant investment in Ireland which has facilitated rapid growth and development of the industry. At present, there are around 60 biopharmaceutical companies in Ireland. These companies currently employ approximately 4,000 people. This three-year, ab initio level 7 degree programme is designed to meet the growing demand for scientists to service the current and emerging biotechnology-based industries in Ireland generally and the Midlands in particular. The current industrial perception is that Ireland’s future technology will predominantly be based upon biotechnology and IT orientated industries. Biotechnology is the manipulation (usually through genetic engineering) of living organisms, cells, genes or molecules to develop services and products that benefit mankind and/or have commercial value. Its impact on the 21st century is said to be as significant as the microchip’s effect on society and industry in the second half of the 20th century. Biotechnology provides many tangible benefits to society: n It is predicted that by 2015 at least half

of all medicines produced worldwide will be produced using biotechnology making them cheaper and more widely available. n Environmental biotechnology products

make it possible to clean up hazardous waste and noxious pollutants by harnessing pollution-eating microbes without the use of caustic chemicals.

188

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

n The creation of non-polluting biofuels

allows form more sustainable energy resources as fossil fuels deplete.

Duration 3 years

n Industrial biotechnology applications have

led to cleaner processes that produce less waste and use less energy and water in industrial sectors as chemicals, pulp and paper, textiles, food, energy, and metals and minerals. For example, most laundry detergents contain biotechnology based enzymes. n DNA fingerprinting, has dramatically

improved criminal investigation and forensic medicine, as well as afforded significant advances in anthropology and wildlife management.

Why study this biotechnology technology and why come to AIT to study it? n A consistently strong biopharmaceutical/

diagnostics sector in Ireland has led the Irish Government to identify it as among the country’s best options for our economic future. n Nine out of the 10 largest pharmaceutical

companies in the world are located in Ireland. n Seven out of the 10 best-selling

medicines in the world are produced here. n One of the mostly highly invested

pharmaceutical plants in the world is in Ireland owned by Wyeth BioPharma. Other major multinationals located here and engaged in biotechnology include Schering Plough and Genzyme. n Companies such as Biotrin, Trinity

Biotech, ThromboGenics which started out in Ireland are now multinationals themselves, performing extremely well in global markets.

Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 320

Final 145

Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

COURSE DETAILS

AL730

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189

n AIT has a long track record of

undergraduate teaching in the area of biotechnology. The Level 7 ab initio course has been running for over 10 years and a strong skills/knowledge base in the various aspects of biotechnology has been established here. Approximately 20 members of the lecturing staff who teach this course are qualified to the PhD level with specialisations in the various aspects of the biotechnology. In the first year of this degree, you will gain a firm grounding in the basic skill sets required for biotechnology which include: General Biology, General Chemistry, Physics, Maths IT and Computing. This course material is delivered as a combination of lecture and practical laboratory classes over the full academic year. In addition, students engage in courses in ‘Learning to Learn’ and ‘Enquiry Based Learning’ which enhance students’ learning skills and are delivered in ‘nonstandard’ modes such as group projects, student presentations, and role play etc. In second year, you will undertake a series of 12 biology/chemistry-based modules delivered over two semesters. Included are a number of specialisations central to biotechnology such as genetics, forensics and recombinant DNA technology. In addition students delve deeper into biochemistry, microbiology and analytical methods. In Year 2 your scientific skills base is honed through laboratory practical classes up to 10 hours per week. In third year, the key sciences underpinning biotechnology are studied as a series of 12 modules over two semesters. These include: Cell Biology, Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology, Environmental Biotechnology, Forensic Science, Applied Biotechnology, Advanced Techniques and Ethics. Training is also given in Occupational Regulatory Affairs to prepare students for the work environment. At the end

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

year 3 students are encouraged to undertake scheduled work experience in the biotechnology industry, which is facilitated by AIT.

Year 3 Forensic Science, Environmental Biotechnology, Ethics, Applied Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Experimental Design & Quality Control, Molecular Biology, Advanced Cell Biology, Advanced Techniques in Molecular Biology and Occupational Regulatory Affairs.

Progression As a graduate of this programme you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology or the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Biosciences at AIT, or related Level 8 programmes at other third-level institutions. See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Typical areas for employment include pharmaceutical medical technology industries, research organisations (academic or industrial), food and drinks manufacturers and more. Roles for Level 7 biotechnology graduates include quality assurance and quality control technician, manufacturing technologist, biochemist, analytical scientist, microbiologist and process engineer. Salaries are very competitive starting around €2530,000 for graduates and rising quickly (4 years+ experience) to the €40-50,000 bracket. Once you reach team leader/middle management level your salary will fall into the €60-80,000 bracket Exciting opportunities may also come with small biotech start-up companies at the early stages of their business development and backed by venture capital. They usually employ only a small number of people and the attractiveness of this career option is that it often leads to a variety of roles and responsibilities at all levels of the business. While the road to success for these companies is rocky, and the failure rate is high, if you pick the right one you might end up with a great career and plenty of valuable share options in your back pocket!

Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing The growth in scale, demands and sophistication of veterinary practices has created a significant market for the services of veterinary nurses. The veterinary nurse plays an essential role in the running of a modern veterinary practice, from assisting the veterinary surgeon, to maintenance of the clinic and patient care. Their roles can be in an advisory capacity, such as advising clients about husbandry, kennel and stable management and responsible pet ownership. Veterinary nurses are involved in the running of diagnostic tests within the clinic such as diagnostic imaging and blood testing. They may also be responsible for administering and dispensing medicines and stock control. Administrative duties may also be part of the veterinary nurseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibilities. This established degree programme will give you the multi-disciplined skills to play a key role in both large and small animal veterinary practices. A critical component of each year of the course is a clinical placement in a veterinary practice. You will be required to spend two residential weeks at Gurteen College, Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co Tipperary during both first and second year of the degree programme. The cost of this week must be paid by the student (details of fees available from AIT).

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Laboratory-based science subject at Grade D3 in higher level or B3 in ordinary level, plus four subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level, to include Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

FETAC Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable. Applicants to this programme are required, however, to have the module Mathematics (C20139) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics. They must also have the module Biology (C20006) at minimum Merit level or alternatively have a Leaving Certificate Science subject at minimum B3 in ordinary level.

Modules Year 1 Learning to Learn, Biology, Chemistry, Introduction to Veterinary Nursing, Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology, Companion Animal Husbandry, Information Technology for Scientists (Veterinary Nursing), Practice Placement (10 weeks). There will be a two week residential placement in Gurteen Agricultural College in semester 2 during which practical training in animal handling and farm health & safety will be provided).

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 450

Final 415

Year 2 Biochemistry, Veterinary Clinical Laboratory Techniques, General Microbiology, Veterinary Pharmacology, Diagnostic Imagining, Large Animal Husbandry, Veterinary Infection & Disease Control, Surgical Nursing, Practice Placement (10 weeks). There will be a two week residential placement in Gurteen Agricultural College in semester 2 during which training in farm animal and equine husbandry will be provided).

Year 3 Advanced Surgical Nursing, Veterinary Anaesthesia, Small Animal Medical Nursing, Equine Medical Nursing, Animal Behaviour, Marketing & Accounting, Practice Placement (all of semester 2).

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Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing

COURSE DETAILS

AL731

Progression

Accreditation

As a graduate you are eligible to apply for the BSc (Hons) in Applied Biosciences, the BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Practice Management or other Level 8 programmes in AIT or elsewhere. Graduates of this programme have been successful in gaining entry to the five-year veterinary programme in Budapest, Hungary.

This course is accredited by the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) and graduate are eligible to enter onto the Veterinary Nurse Register of Ireland.

See also progression chart on page 182.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Career Opportunities Currently, and for the foreseeable future, employment prospects for veterinary nurses are excellent. As well as providing the necessary scientific and nursing skills and understanding, this programme also uniquely provides you with the business skills that are essential for running and marketing a veterinary practice.

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Design & Development) Those working in drug development and pharmaceutical analysis seek answers to the following questions: n Is the identity of the API (active

pharmaceutical ingredient) in the formulated product correct? n Is the correct quantity of API present? n How might I maximise the yield from

the synthetic route? n Is the product stable and what expiry

date should it have? n Is each of the ingredients compatible? n At what rate will the API be released from

its formulation so its can be absorbed from the body? n What analytical techniques must I use

to answer the above questions? Even casual observers will be aware of the critical role that the Irish pharmaceutical sector plays in contributing to the exemplary success of Ireland’s manufacturing exports. Many may have knowledge of the courses available in universities and institutes which provide graduates to the industry. Athlone Institute of Technology has for a number of years offered a unique four year ab inito program in pharmaceutical science which provides graduates with relevant skills at the molecular and product level. The three year, Level 7 offering in Drug Development & Analysis is now also offered to suitably qualified school leavers who wish to acquire key skills which will enable them to participate in and contribute to this success story. On this degree, you will be instructed by a dedicated and integrated team of academic staff possessing a diverse and relevant range of teaching experience and research interests. In each semester, the six modules offered build on more than four decades of life sciences and chemical undergraduate and postgraduate course delivery and research.

Theory is always supported by practice, and modules provide knowledge and ‘hands-on’ experience. After essential grounding in life, physical, IT and mathematical sciences, learners become appraised of basic and advanced chemical and pharmacologically relevant science. Further studies focus on the disciplines of Pharmaceutical Synthesis, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Analysis, and Spectroscopy & Chromatography. Deparmental staff members regularly consult with industry to maintain the currency of our course provision and this input is reflected in our offering of a module in Professional & Transferable Skills. This seeks to ensure that graduates are sufficiently aware and professional in all activities and thus fulfil their role and potential in the workplace.

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Minimum of Grade C3 in two higher level subjects, Mathematics at minimum Grade D3 at ordinary level. The six subjects must include a language (English or Irish).

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

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193

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Design & Development)

COURSE DETAILS

AL734

Year 3 Metals in Medicine, Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Separations, Quality Assurance & GMP, Environmental Science, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Spectroscopy, Pharmaceutical Synthesis, Pharmaceutical Materials, Professional & Transferrable Skills for Pharmaceutical Scientists

Progression Many graduates will remain to study for the AIT Level 8 offering in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Discovery & Development). See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Graduates from this degree may expect to find rewarding careers and well remunerated positions in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals sector, whether in an API/biologic drugs plant or in a finished drug product manufacturing facility. Previous graduates have also obtained desirable roles in research, whether industrial or leading to a higher degree, in colleges or the wider public service such as forensics and environmental monitoring. Others are currently employed in agriculture, food, polymers and beverage concerns.

194

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Human and Animal Toxicology AIT has offered undergraduate and postgraduate training in toxicology since the mid-1980s and is nationally and internationally regarded as a centre of excellence in academic and practical toxicology training. Graduates from level 7, level 8 and level 9 toxicology programmes have gone on to obtain research degrees in universities and research institutes in Ireland and abroad. While toxicology might be regarded as the science of poisons, it can be more fully described as the study of the negative effects of chemicals on living organisms. According to the American Society of Toxicology, approximately 100,000 chemicals are currently in use worldwide, with 500 new chemicals entering the marketplace annually. Toxicologists work to develop safer chemical products, drugs and medicines. They determine risks for chemical exposure and develop treatments for such exposures. They play a major role in the food and drinks industry and are often involved in the growing area of forensics. This four-year, ab initio honours degree programme provides an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in toxicology as a broad discipline. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical companies, government agencies, health services, to mention just a few. In third year you get to complete a substantial industry placement, which will be of considerable benefit when you graduate and are seeking full-time employment.

Minimum Entry Requirements

subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. Subjects to include a language (English or Irish).

Duration 4 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median 345

Final 280

Year 4 Cell & Molecular Toxicology, Toxicity Testing Methods, Immunology, Biochemical Toxicology, Pharmacology, Research Methods and Research Project.

Leaving Certificate Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects, Grade D3 in Mathematics at ordinary level, plus three

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195

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Human and Animal Toxicology

COURSE DETAILS

AL839

What our graduates say…

From Spain to Athlone Laura Lozano ‘I’m a Spanish student and spent one year doing an interchange in the third year of the biotechnology degree in Athlone Institute of Technology. During this year in AIT, I learned a lot. In first place, AIT’s classes are much more personal, there are not too many students in the class and the lecturers ensure that everyone understands everything. If you have questions, you can ask them and all of the staff are very friendly. Secondly, I have learned to be independent in my lab work, we have a lot of lab classes, and in my opinion this is really important in a biotechnology degree. In Spain, there are a lot of lectures and not enough practicals in the lab. And thirdly, at the end of the year we have a placement in a biotechnology laboratory. I was in NUIG. The group was excellent and I learnt a lot about the lab work in a PhD. My year in AIT increased my motivation to study for a science degree and with all the lab work that I have done I realised that I want to do a PhD. It also helps my CV, with the new lab techniques learned and the experience of the placement. And this allows me to be selected to do an internship in a Switzerland lab in the subject that I want to do my PhD research.’

Progression AIT’s qualifications in toxicology have acquired an excellent reputation nationally and internationally and cooperative projects have been established with many universities that facilitate the process of entrance to postgraduate courses. A taught Master of Science in Toxicology is offered by AIT. For further information on this programme and other postgraduate opportunities at AIT, see the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 182.

Accreditation

Launch pad to researching mechanisms of disease Hiliary Cassidy ‘I attended the biotechnology course in Athlone in 2003-2004. I found this course extremely interesting with modules covering all aspects from biochemistry, microbiology, recombinant DNA technology and genetics. The practical sessions were well planned and informative, which I have found to be important if students are to be encouraged to pursue a research career. During the course we delved into the molecular mechanisms of diseases and cancer which has played a pivotal role in the direction in which my career has progressed. The enthusiam of the lecturers for their subject was infectious and students cannot help but develop an interest in disease manifestation, progression and treatment. Since my time in AIT, I have completed a Master’s in the role of miRNAs in cervical cancer and am currently undertaking a PhD where I am investigating potential biomarkers of chronic allograft nephropathy in kidney transplant patients, and also the mechanisms of chronic kidney disease. My interest in the mechanisms of disease can be traced back to my time on the biotech course. On reflection, in my opinion this course is among the top courses on offer, with thoroughly researched modules which are well taught, the information presented in lectures is very applicable to any future career a student may aspire to, and the hands on practical experience gained during the course is unparallelled in any other course.’

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Graduates of this programme are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education programme at Irish universities, to teach the subject Biology.

Career Opportunities Graduates of this course should find employment in management, regulatory, technical and research positions in industry as well as state-supported posts in government laboratories and third-level institutions.

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology Biotechnology is the manipulation (usually through genetic engineering) of living organisms, cells, genes or molecules to develop services and products that benefit mankind and/or have commercial value. Its impact on the 21st century is said to be as significant as the microchip’s effect on society and industry in the second half of the 20th century. Biotechnology provides many tangible benefits to society: n It is predicted that by 2015 at least half

of all medicines produced worldwide will be produced using biotechnology making them cheaper and more widely available. n Environmental biotechnology products

make it possible to clean up hazardous waste and noxious pollutants by harnessing pollution-eating microbes without the use of caustic chemicals. n Biopesticides and other agricultural

products are being applied to improve our food supply and reduce our dependence on conventional chemical pesticides n Industrial biotechnology applications

have led to cleaner processes that produce less waste and use less energy and water in industrial sectors as chemicals, pulp and paper, textiles, food, energy, and metals and minerals. For example, most laundry detergents contain biotechnology based enzymes. n DNA fingerprinting, has dramatically

improved criminal investigation and forensic medicine, as well as afforded significant advances in anthropology and wildlife management.

Why study biotechnology and why come to AIT to study it? n A consistently strong biopharmaceutical/

diagnostics sector in Ireland has led the Irish Government to identify it as among the country’s best options for our

economic future. n Nine out of the 10 largest pharmaceutical

companies in the world are located in Ireland. n Seven out of the 10 best-selling

medicines in the world are produced here. n One of the mostly highly invested in

pharmaceutical plants in the world is in Ireland owned by Wyeth BioPharma. Other multinationals located here and engaged in biotechnology include Schering Plough, and Genzyme. n Companies such as Biotrin, Trinity

Biotech, ThromboGenics which started out in Ireland are now multinationals themselves, performing extremely well in national and global markets. n The school of science in AIT is relatively

small which allows for small numbers in each class group which is especially important for individual attention for students and access to and training on scientific equipment.

Duration 4 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

The course is delivered over four academic years. Years 1 and 2 are taught in common with a number of other related science courses, while in Years 3 and 4 are specific to biotechnology students. In first year, you will gain a firm grounding in the basic skill sets required for biotechnology which include: General Biology, General Chemistry, Physics, Maths IT and Computing. This course material is delivered as a combination of lecture and practical laboratory classes over the full academic year. In addition, you will engage in courses in ‘Learning to Learn’ and ‘Enquiry Based Learning’ which enhance students’ learning skills and are delivered in ‘non-standard’ modes such as group projects, student presentations, role play etc.

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COURSE DETAILS

AL838

In second year, you undertake a series of 12 biology/chemistry-based modules delivered over two semesters. Included are a number of specialisations central to biotechnology such as genetics, forensics and recombinant DNA technology. In addition students delve deeper into biochemistry, microbiology and analytical methods. In Year 2, your scientific skills base is honed through laboratory practical classes up to 10 hours per week. In Year 3 the key sciences underpinning biotechnology are studied as a series of 12 modules over 2 semesters. These include: Cell Biology, Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology, Environmental Biotechnology, Forensic Science, Applied Biotechnology, Advanced Techniques and Ethics. Training is also given in Occupational Regulatory Affairs to prepare students for the work environment. At the end year 3 students are encouraged to undertake scheduled work experience in the biotechnology industry, which is facilitated by AIT. Year 4 of this degree programme prepares students for the wide variety of career options that are open to them upon completion. For example, there are modules focused on various aspects of the biotechnology industry. You will also undertake a supervised research project in year 4 which is a valuable opportunity to discover if they have an aptitude for scientific research leading to Master’s or PhD degrees, either of which can be a significant avenue for career advancement to the highest levels. Finally, a new module which is included in year 4 called Innovation and Entrepreneurship is designed to enable biotechnology graduates to become involved in biotechnological innovation from inception right through to business plan and hopefully profit!

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Year 4 Bioprocess Technology, Bioinformatics, Analytical Biotechnology, Validation, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Good Manufacturing Practice, Regulatory Affairs & Legislation, Research Methods and Research Project.

Career Opportunities Typical areas for employment include pharmaceutical medical technology industries, research organisations (academic or industrial), food and drinks manufacturers and more. Roles for Level 8 biotechnology graduates include quality assurance and quality control technician, manufacturing technologist, biochemist, analytical scientist, microbiologist and process engineer. Salaries are very competitive starting around €25-30,000 for graduates and rising quickly (4 years+ experience) to the €40-50,000 bracket. Once you reach team leader/middle management level your salary will fall into the €60-80,000 bracket Exciting opportunities may also come with small biotech start-up companies at the early stages of their business development and backed by venture capital. They usually employ only a small number of people and the attractiveness of this career option is that it often leads to a variety of roles and responsibilities at all levels of the business. While the road to success for these companies is rocky, and the failure rate is high, if you pick the right one you might end up with a great career and plenty of valuable share options in your back pocket!

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Sciences Even casual observers will be aware of the critical role that the Irish pharmaceutical sector plays in contributing to the exemplary success of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manufacturing exports. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors are widely regarded as the effective economic drivers of Ireland. This century has been predicted to be the century of biology and the bioscience technology revolution is underpinning many of the developments in drug discovery and medicine.

n Which experimental design will facilitate

The pharma industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continual growth and prosperity in Ireland is highly dependent on the generation and attraction of skilled graduates and this course is designed to give you the knowledge and competence to enter industry or proceed to further postgraduate education. The Midlands region has been particularly targeted by government development agencies for the growth of pharma and healthcare companies and this degree programme is a crucial element of the infrastructure supporting this growth.

protection is most secure in warding off competitors?

Questions asked by pharmaceutical science graduates include: n What are the sources of APIs

(active pharmaceutical ingredients)? n What is the link between what a drug

does and its chemical structure? n What methods and techniques can

I deploy to minimise toxicity and optimise therapeutic efficacy?

cost-effective ingredient selection and manufacture while eliminating waste?

Duration 4 years

n How might I circumvent difficulties with

drug absorption, unwanted distribution and premature inactivation or elimination? n Which new generation technologies

such as nanoencapsulation and stimulisensitive hydrogels are most suitable to achieve beneficial drug delivery? n What type of intellectual property (IP)

n What analytical techniques must I use

to answer the above questions?

Minimum Entry Requirements

Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO

Leaving Certificate

Points 2010

Minimum of Grade C3 in two higher level subjects, Mathematics at minimum Grade D3 at ordinary level. The six subjects must include a language (English or Irish).

Median N/A

Final N/A

Investing in your future 2012/2013

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Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Sciences

COURSE DETAILS

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Modules

Year 4

Career Opportunities

Year 1

Contemporary Issues in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Technology, Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs, Pharmacognosy & Natural Products, API Discovery & Characterisation, Bioanalytical Techniques in Therapeutics, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Experimental Design & Validation, Medical Devices & Advanced Therapies, Research Methods and Research Project.

Graduates from our programme may expect to find rewarding careers and well remunerated positions in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals sector, whether in an API/ biologic drugs plant or in a finished drug product manufacturing facility. A number of graduates have been successful in securing roles in regulatory affairs where they interface with national, EU or other international state bodies such as the US FDA in support of marketing authorisation applications from their employer. Previous graduates have also obtained desirable roles in research, whether industrial or leading to a higher degree, in colleges or the wider public service such as forensics and environmental monitoring. Others are currently employed in agriculture, food, polymers and beverage concerns.

Learning to Learn, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics for Scientists, Information Technology for Scientists, Current Scientific Issues through EnquiryBased Learning and Scientific Computing.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Progression An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate training and research leading to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and PhD (Level 9/10) qualifications. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 182.

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology From the Heineken Cup to the Olympics, the Premiership to the All-Ireland, success in the sporting arena is dependent upon many things. Raw talent remains a crucial ingredient, but increasingly an appropriate preparation regime is central to lifting the winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trophy. Sports scientists are at the heart of this new approach, providing expertise in assessing the needs of athletes, designing coaching and training programmes, and measuring changes in sportsmen and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance parameters. This new four-year BSc (Hons) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology will equip students with the necessary skills to meet the needs of elite athletes, as well as the health and fitness requirements of the general population. The degree combines areas such as performance testing, nutrition, exercise therapy for recovery, analytical techniques used for screening performance-enhancing drugs, and biomechanics. Over the course of four years, you will learn how the human body operates, from the physiology of the heart, to the operation and interaction of the respiratory, nervous, urinary and reproductive systems. You will also learn about the physics of sport and how mechanics can be applied to biological systems to improve performance. Furthermore, you will study the pathophysiology of injuries and diseases and the use of exercise in rehabilitation from these conditions. You will develop expertise in testing and analysing athletesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; performance, including the physiology of the high performance athlete in a state-of-the-art sports science laboratory (featuring treadmills, exercise bikes designed for resistance training, ergometers, Douglas bags and a gas analysis system, a blood lactate analyser, force dynamometer for vertical jumping/gait analysis and sphygmomanometers).

The degree also includes modules on sports psychology and coaching. As a student on the degree, you will be facilitated in acquiring coaching qualifications in your chosen sporting activity by liaising with the relevant national governing body and timetabling the training sessions on a specific day. A unique part of this programme is the four-month work placement undertaken in the summer of third year. This will provide you with valuable experience of the working environment in the sports science and exercise physiology field. Athlone Institute of Technology has invested millions of euro in its indoor and outdoor facilities. The sporting infrastructure on campus includes an IAAF-approved athletics track and a FIFA 2-star astro-turf pitch, while the new indoor sports arena will be completed in 2012. The indoor facilities will include an athletics track, a multi-sport arena (suitable for futsal, basketball, etc.), as well as comprehensive support facilities for elite athlete training.

Duration 4 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2010 Median N/A

Final N/A

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Minimum of Grade C3 at higher level in two subjects, plus a minimum of Grade D3 at ordinary level in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these six subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

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Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology

COURSE DETAILS

AL837

FETAC FETAC applicants to this programme must hold the following award: Laboratory Techniques (CASLT). They are also required to have obtained a minimum of a pass in the module Mathematics (C20139) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics. They must also possess distinctions in three of the following modules: Chemistry (C20011), Biology (C20006), Physics (C20048), Mathematics (C20139) or Laboratory Techniques (C20033).

Elite Sportsperson Entry Scheme Up to five places will be reserved each year for outstanding candidates who have reached a very high standard of sporting achievement, through performance or coaching and who are committed to further developing their sporting and academic careers. Applicants must satisfy the minimum entry requirements for Level 8 degrees. In addition, applicants must have reached a specified sports standard to be eligible for this very competitive scheme and selection of successful candidates will be based on a range of criteria, including sporting achievements and evidence of a commitment to a career in sports science.

Garda clearance Students on the BSc (Hons) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology programme will be required to achieve learning outcomes in coaching various sports and sports activities. The learning process will involve the coaching of both individuals and teams in a variety of sporting areas. Inevitably, children and vulnerable adults will form a subset of those

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

individuals requiring coaching. In order to safeguard the rights and interests of children and vulnerable adults, students registering on the BSc (Hons) in Sports Science with Exercise Physiology will be required to obtain Garda clearance through the Garda Central Vetting Unit (TGVCU).

Modules Year 1 Fundamentals of Sports Science, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics for Sport and Health, Introduction to Biomechanics, Introduction to Coaching, Health BLS First Aid, Learning to Learn.

Year 2 Anatomy for Sports Science, Human Biochemistry, Introduction to Neuroscience, Clinical Testing for Sports and Health Science, Analytical Techniques in Sports Science, Human Psychology, Applied Human Physiology, Human Biochemistry, Statistics for Sport and Health Science, Kinesiology Biomechanics & Motor Control, Business Law.

Year 3 Drugs in Sport, Sports & Exercise Physiology, Nutrition in Health & Disease, Sports Injuries, Sports Psychology, Performance Analysis, Applied Coaching Science, Special Populations, Research Methods, Placement.

Year 4 Physiology of the High Performance Athlete, Strengthening & Conditioning, Advanced Psychology in Sports and Exercise, Nutrition for Performance, Business of Marketing for Exercise Professionals, Sports and Law, Research Project. plus two modules from Exercise Therapy for Recovery, Coaching for Special Populations, Coaching for Special Populations, Sports Injuries & Rehabilitation.

Progression As a graduate you will be eligible to pursue research MSc/PhD programmes in sports science and related areas as well as taught masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programmes in cognate areas. In addition, over the coming years the School of Science intends to develop in-house taught masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programmes for sports science and exercise physiology graduates. See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities The scale of the sports sector can be gauged from the fact that more than 38,000 people are employed in this industry in Ireland, with 270,000 volunteers active across all sporting codes. As a graduate of this degree, you will be eligible to pursue employment in areas such as the testing and monitoring of elite performers, coaching education, sports journalism, sport and exercise consultancy, health promotion and in research.

While toxicology might be regarded as the science of poisons, it can be more fully described as the study of the negative effects of chemicals on living organisms. Forensic toxicology involves the study of toxins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; poisons, drugs and other substances that have a life-threatening effect on a living being. A forensic toxicologist knows the rates of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs and chemicals along with a variety of other features about the nature of the interaction of toxins with the human body. Forensic toxicologists may perform tests on human or animal tissue samples and body fluids in order to determine whether or not a toxin is present. As well as possessing specialist scientific knowledge, forensic toxicologists are required to have strong communication and interpersonal skills (written and oral), IT skills, time management skills and the ability to work as part of a team.

Modules

This one-year, add-on level 7 degree programme will provide an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in forensic toxicology. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical companies, government agencies, health services (among others).

Minimum Entry Requirements

Biochemical & Forensic Toxicology, Ecotoxicology, Analytical & Forensic Toxicology, Toxicological Pathology, Genotoxicology, Quality Control & Experimental Design and Occupational Regulatory Affairs.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Career Opportunities

Higher Certificate in Science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

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Bachelor of Science in Forensic Toxicology

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Toxicology

Environmental toxicology is a branch of toxicology that became established in the mid-1960s. In essence, environmental toxicology is the multi-disciplinary study of the effects and detection of toxic substances in the environment. Environmental toxicology draws upon both basic and applied scientific knowledge to understand natural and anthropogenic (man-made) pollutantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; life cycle and their impact on structures and functions of biological and ecological systems. In this programme the effects of environmental toxins will be investigated at the level of molecules, cells, tissues, organs, organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems. The main questions posed by environmental toxicologists are: how pollutant causes harmful effects, how can we measure the extent of the effects, and what can we do to prevent or minimise the risk to biological and ecological systems. As well as possessing specialist scientific knowledge, environmental toxicologists are required to have strong communication skills (written and oral), IT skills, time management skills and the ability to work as part of a team. Graduates of this course will acquire an in depth understanding and appreciation of the complexities of Environmental Toxicology while mastering competencies in the practical in-vivo and in-vitro assessment of toxicants. This unique one-year add-on level 7 degree programme provides an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in environmental toxicology. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical and manufacturing companies, government environmental and regulatory agencies, health services (among others). In addition, the recent enactment of a European Union Directive called REACH which deals with the

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances mandates the environmental toxicity assessment of chemicals which are in common use.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level

Modules Biochemical & Forensic Toxicology, Ecotoxicology, Analytical & Forensic Toxicology, Toxicological Pathology, Genotoxicology, Quality Control & Experimental Design and Occupational Regulatory Affairs.

7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Toxicology

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Toxicology

Biotechnology is broadly defined as the use of biological processes of microbes, and of plants or animal cells for the benefit of humans. Biotechnology is used in the production of biopharmaceuticals drugs substances. According to a report from the ForfĂĄs Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (November 2010), Ireland is emerging as a leading location for biopharmaceuticals with a mix of start-ups, high growth SMEs and large multinationals located here. Industry leaders including Pfizer, Eli Lilly, Genzyme, Merck, Elan (based in Athlone), GeneMedix and Allergan have significant investment in Ireland which has facilitated rapid growth and development of the industry. At present, there are around 60 biopharmaceutical companies in Ireland. These companies currently employ approximately 4,000 people. This oneyear, add-on level 7 degree programme is designed to meet the growing demand for scientists to service the current and emerging biotechnology-based industries in Ireland generally and the Midlands in particular. The current industrial perception is that Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future technology will predominantly be based upon biotechnology and IT orientated industries.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

Modules Forensic Science, Environmental Biotechnology, Ethics, Applied Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Experimental Design & Quality Control, Molecular Biology, Advanced Cell Biology, Advanced Techniques in Molecular Biology and Occupational Regulatory Affairs.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Graduates of this course should find employment in the following areas: diagnostics, pharmaceutical and healthcare companies, food and drinks industry, agri-chemical companies and agricultural industries, regulatory affairs, bioinformatics, brewing and other biotechnology based industries.

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Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

n Is the identity of the API (active

pharmaceutical ingredient) in the formulated product correct? n Is the correct quantity of API present? n How might I maximise the yield from

the synthetic route? n Is the product stable and what expiry

date should it have? n Is each of the ingredients compatible? n At what rate will the API be released from

its formulation so its can be absorbed from the body? n What analytical techniques must I use

to answer the above questions? Even casual observers will be aware of the critical role that the Irish pharmaceutical sector plays in contributing to the exemplary success of Ireland’s manufacturing exports. Many may have knowledge of the courses available in universities and institutes which provide graduates to the industry. Athlone Institute of Technology currently offers a unique four year ab inito programme in pharmaceutical sciences which imparts graduates with relevant skills at the molecular and product level. This Level 7 offering in Drug Development & Analysis is now offered to holders of relevant Level 6 awards or to graduates of other science courses who wish to acquire key skills which will enable them to participate in and contribute to this success story.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Duration

On this degree, you will be instructed by a dedicated and integrated team of academic staff possessing a diverse and relevant range of teaching experience and research interests.

1 year

The twelve modules build on more than four decades of life sciences and chemical undergraduate and postgraduate course delivery and research. Theory is always supported by practice and modules provide knowledge and ‘hands-on’ experience of Pharmaceutical Synthesis, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Analysis, and Spectroscopy & Chromatography. We regularly consult with industry to maintain the currency of our course provision and this input is reflected in our offering of Professional & Transferable Skills. This seeks to ensure that graduates are sufficiently aware and professional in all activities and thus fulfil their role and potential in the workplace.

Full-time

Graduates from our programme may expect to find rewarding careers and well remunerated positions in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals sector, whether in an API/ biologic drugs plant or in a finished drug product manufacturing facility. Previous graduates have also obtained desirable roles in research, whether industrial or leading to a higher degree, in colleges or the wider public service such as forensics and environmental monitoring. Others are currently employed in agriculture, food, polymers and beverage concerns. Many graduates will remain to study for the AIT Level 8 offering in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Discovery & Development).

Mode

Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Development and Analysis)

Those working in drug development and pharmaceutical analysis seek answers to the following questions:

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Development and Analysis)

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

Modules Metals in Medicine, Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Separations, Quality Assurance & GMP, Environmental Science, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Spectroscopy, Pharmaceutical Synthesis, Pharmaceutical Materials, Professional & Transferrable Skills for Pharmaceutical Scientists and Pharmaceutical Statistics.

Progression Many graduates will remain to study for the AIT Level 8 offering in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Discovery & Development). See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Employment opportunities for holders of this degree are excellent, with projected growth throughout this sector for the foreseeable future. You can expect to find employment in the pharmaceutical, biomedical, chemical and food industries. Opportunities also exist in research institutes, quality control and environmental protection.

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This add-on degree programme combines two distinct but related disciplines that are increasingly operationally linked in the work place: health and safety, and environmental management. It is aimed at higher certificate holders who wish to obtain the necessary skills to seek employment in these areas and, perhaps more importantly, it provides an opportunity for those already employed in environmental, health and safety positions to obtain a formal and recognised qualification. Successful completion of this programme will facilitate membership of the appropriate professional body, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

Entry Requirements Higher certificate in science, engineering, technology or an equivalent Level 6 qualification. In the case of mature applicants (23 or over), five yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; relevant work experience will be considered for equivalency. Applicants who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t meet these criteria may be reviewed on an individual case-by-case basis. In addition to the formal entry requirements, all applicants are also required to attend an interview as part of the final selection process.

Modules Year 1 Learning to Learn, Introductory Environmental Science, Training & Computing, Legislation, Practical Environmental Science and Occupational Health, Hygiene & Hazards

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Year 2 Risk Management, Principles of Environmental Management, Occupational Health, Hygiene & Hazards, Fire & Construction Safety, Waste Management Technology and Project.

Duration 2 years Mode Part-time (ACCS)

Progression As a graduate of this programme, if you wish to further your qualifications in the area of environmental, health and safety you are eligible to apply for relevant degree programmes in Ireland or abroad. Those holding Merit or Distinction are eligible to apply for the Postgraduate Diploma/ MSc in Environmental, Health and Safety Management at AIT. See also progression chart on page 182.

Accreditation Successful completion of this programme will facilitate membership of the appropriate professional body, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

Career Opportunities This course is especially suited to staff already employed who wish to upgrade existing skill or to those interested in entering this particular skills area within industry.

Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Health and Safety Management

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Health and Safety Management

AIT has offered undergraduate and postgraduate training in toxicology since the mid-1980s and is nationally and internationally regarded as a centre of excellence in academic and practical toxicology training. Graduates from level 7, level 8 and level 9 toxicology programmes have gone on to obtain research degrees in universities and research institutes in Ireland and abroad.

Minimum Entry Requirements

While toxicology might be regarded as the science of poisons, it can be more fully described as the study of the negative effects of chemicals on living organisms. According to the American Society of Toxicology, approximately 100,000 chemicals are currently in use worldwide, with 500 new chemicals entering the marketplace annually.

Cell & Molecular Toxicology, Toxicity Testing Methods, Immunology, Biochemical Toxicology, Pharmacology, Research Methods and Research Project.

Toxicologists work to develop safer chemical products, drugs and medicines. They determine risks for chemical exposure and develop treatments for such exposures. They play a major role in the food and drinks industry and are often involved in the growing area of forensics. This one-year, add-on honours degree programme provides an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in toxicology as a broad discipline. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical companies, government agencies, health services, to mention just a few.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Science (Level 7) in a cognate discipline or an equivalent qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme.

Modules

Progression AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s qualifications in toxicology have acquired an excellent reputation nationally and internationally and cooperative projects have been established with many universities that facilitate the process of entrance to postgraduate courses. A taught Master of Science in Toxicology is offered by AIT. For further information on this programme and other postgraduate opportunities at AIT, see the postgraduate prospectus.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Graduates of this course should find employment in management, regulatory, technical and research positions in industry, as well as state-supported posts in government laboratories and third-level institutions.

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Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Human and Animal Toxicology

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Human and Animal Toxicology

Biotechnology is broadly defined as the use of biological processes of microbes, and of plants or animal cells for the benefit of humans. The Government has placed considerable emphasis on the biotechnology industry and the country has had considerable success in attracting the leading international companies to locate in Ireland, including Abiomed and Amgen in recent years. In particular, the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spatial and economic strategy for the Midlands envisages the development of life science and healthcare business in the region. Given the scale of these developments, there is an enormous demand for trained personnel with the necessary skills, which AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degrees in biotechnology provide. This add-on honours degree will provide you with training in bioprocessing technology, validation, analytical biotechnology and other skills specifically related to commercialisation of life sciences research. This honours degree hosts a variety of new and exciting modules that prepare the student to seamlessly integrate into the industrial environment while fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship. The programme applies a blended learning approach to engage the student in activities that mimic real-life scenarios in the workplace. The student will learn how to use state-ofthe-art instrumentation and will attain an understanding of the applications associated with equipment used.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Bioinformatics plays a pivotal role in the programme and the student will receive extensive training in accessing and retrieving nucleic acid and protein sequences from online databases, sequence alignment techniques, phylogenetic analysis, protein sequence analysis, protein structure analysis/ visualisation and Perl programming. The programme will also allow the student to participate in field trips where they will visit some of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top multinational laboratories. The course includes modules in Bioinformatics, Bioprocess Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Analytical Biotechnology and Research Methods among others. A research project will compound the learning experience where the learner will develop critical decision making, time management and communication tools that will equip the student with vital management skills for future employment.

Minimum Entry Requirements Holders of an appropriate Bachelor of Science qualification or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme

Modules Bioprocess Technology, Bioinformatics, Analytical Biotechnology, Validation, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Good Manufacturing Practice, Regulatory Affairs & Legislation, Research Methods and Research Project.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology

Graduate Profile

CSI: AIT Fintan Garavan

Progression An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate training and research leading to Master’s and PhD (Level 9/10) qualifications. Staff in the school or in the Careers’ Office can advise on the range of opportunities available at the institute, in Ireland and abroad for such postgraduate programmes. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the Postgraduate Prospectus. See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Irish biotechnology graduates can go on to work in a variety of areas including the health and agricultural sciences sector. This covers a wide variety of jobs including technical roles in immunodiagnostics, biopharmaceutical and drug development companies along with roles in governmental authorities, quality control and validation. Additionally, qualified students have engaged further in academia pursuing several postgraduate research opportunities. Former students studying this course have gone on to work in a variety of large and small multinational and indigenous companies including Abbott, Europharma Concepts and Reliance GeneMedix.

It may seem a long way from Athlone to Miami, but that is the journey that forensic pathologist, Dr Fintan Garavan, has taken in his career. Currently working with the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s Department in Florida, USA, Fintan’s academic career began in AIT in the 1980s. Having graduated from Athlone with a degree in toxicology, he went on to complete a PhD in Trinity College, Dublin in 1994. Deciding to qualify as a pathologist, he studied medicine for five years, undertaking internships in medicine and surgery before looking abroad to study pathology. The quality of training in the US is the best in the world and after considerable effort, Fintan was accepted to the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Department, where he recently completed training as a fellow. Interestingly, this department is the model for the CSI: Miami television series. When asked for advice he might offer to any young person considering following his career path, he said: ‘Ultimately, you don’t choose forensic pathology, it chooses you. It took me 16 years to get to where I am now, but if you’re young, determined and this is what you want to do then you will enjoy those 16 years. Personally, I would do it all over again.’

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The agri-food and drink sector continues to make a significant contribution to the Irish economy. According to a report published in July 2010, up to 4,000 jobs could be created over the next decade under ambitious plans to grow farm, food and fishing businesses. The Food Harvest 2020 report said the agri-food and fisheries sector is the country’s most important indigenous industry, directly employing 150,000 people and contributing €24bn to the economy annually. Students on this add-on honours degree focus on animal-based and agricultural modules such as animal husbandry, land use, and environment and farm management and Planning. There is also a distinct focus on food science through modules such as Food Microbiology, Food Processing and Technology and Food Safety.

Minimum Entry Requirements Holders of an appropriate Bachelor of Science qualification in veterinary nursing or agriculture science, biotechnology, toxicology or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme.

Modules Agricultural Biotechnology, Analytical & Forensic Toxicology, Extensive Animal Production, Environmental Management & Land Use, Ethics, Food Processing & Safety, Environmental Management & Land Use, Applied Cell Biology, Food & Molecular Microbiology, Research Methods, Research Project.

Progression An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate training and research leading to Master’s and PhD (Level 9/10) qualifications. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities As a graduate of this degree, you may be employed in processing, quality assurance analysis/bioanalysis, validation, management and optimisation. Graduates holding both this award and the award of BSc in Veterinary Nursing have been successful in gaining entry to the four-year veterinary programme in Kosice, Slovakia.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Biosciences

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Biosciences

Those working in drug discovery and development seek answers to the following questions:

platform of key, up to date skills which will enable them to participate in and contribute to this success story.

n What are the sources of APIs

Each semester, the six modules offered build on more than four decades of life sciences and chemical undergraduate and postgraduate course delivery and research. Theory is always supported by practice, and modules provide knowledge and ‘hands-on’ experience. Among the disciplines offered you will find Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Technology, Bioanalytical Techniques in Therapeutics, Advanced Therapies, Experimental Design & Validation, and API Discovery & Characterisation.

(active pharmaceutical ingredients)? n How can I correlate intrinsic activity

with their chemical structure? n What methods and techniques can

I deploy to minimise toxicity and optimise therapeutic efficacy? n Which experimental design will facilitate

cost-effective ingredient selection and manufacture while eliminating waste? n How might I circumvent difficulties with

drug absorption, unwanted distribution and premature inactivation or elimination? n Which new generation technologies

such as nanoencapsulation and stimulisensitive hydrogels are most suitable to achieve beneficial drug delivery? n What type of intellectual property (IP)

protection is most secure in warding off competitors? n What analytical techniques must I use

We regularly consult with industry to maintain the currency of our course provision and this input is reflected in our first semester offering of Research Methods. This seeks to ensure that graduates are sufficiently aware and accountable in all activities in planning and executing a research project in the second semester. This helps to crystallise learner awareness and to prepare them to successfully fulfil their role in the workplace or the research laboratory into the future.

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Minimum Entry Requirements Holders of an appropriate Bachelor of Science qualification in chemistry or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme.

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Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Discovery and Development)

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Discovery and Development)

Modules

Career Opportunities

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

This honours degree aims to meet the needs of veterinary practices in the current climate, equipping the graduate with additional skills in human resource management, finance, marketing and IT. It will allow a registered veterinary nurse to up-skill and attain a qualification in practice management, significantly enhancing their prospects for employment in practice. The main aim of the programme is to equip a qualified veterinary nurse with additional skills essential in the management of a modern veterinary practice. It aims to enable you to use your skills as a veterinary nurse to promote community health care in the area of veterinary science. In addition, the programme aims to provide additional skills to a qualified veterinary nurse in the areas of clinical nutrition and veterinary drug development which will enable you to broaden your career opportunities. The programme will train you in the management of a small- to medium-sized veterinary business, maximise the use of sales and marketing skills in the area of veterinary products and services, and up-skill you in information technology relevant to the veterinary business, including web design. It will also equip you with an in-depth knowledge in the area of veterinary clinical nutrition and provide you with a good level of knowledge in the area of veterinary drug formulation and development.

Modules Veterinary Nurse Practice, Professional Practice, Financial Management, Veterinary Clinical Nutrition, Veterinary Practice Sales & Marketing, Human Resource Management, Information Technology in Veterinary Practice, Veterinary pharmaceutics, Research Methods and Research Project.

Progression

Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate training and research leading to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and PhD (Level 9/10) qualifications. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 182.

Career Opportunities Graduates will work in veterinary clinics and hospitals as practice managers, run veterinary nurse animal health clinics, work in technical support and sales in veterinary nutrition companies, technical support and sales in pharmaceutical companies, technical and advisory roles in animal welfare organisations, Department of Agriculture and other advisory bodies.

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Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Veterinary Practice Management

COURSE DETAILS

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Veterinary Practice Management

Nursing and Health Science

Nursing is an interpersonal caring process that acknowledges the uniqueness of the person. The general nursing programme contains the essential elements that facilitate the development of professional knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to meet the nursing needs of patients who are acutely or chronically ill. General nurses also have an important role in the promotion of health. The philosophy of the Department of Nursing and Health Science is to deliver informed high quality learning experiences in an environment that exposes students to challenging and engaging teaching, supported by advanced technology and emerging research. The healthcare services and the work trends of general nurses are changing continuously and the general nurse must be able to respond to the health needs and demands of the Irish population. Nursing practice also involves working with other professions and the general nursing programme aims to develop nurses who will act as effective members of a health care team at various levels of the health care system. Psychiatric nursing is a specialist nursing discipline. The primary objectives are to facilitate the maximum development of the mental health of the individual who has psychiatric problems and to promote psychiatric nursing. The basis of the work of the psychiatric nurse is the relationship the nurse has with the person and their families who use the mental health services. The manner in which the psychiatric nurse develops this relationship, in partnership with those who use the services and their carers, and the skills the nurse uses within these relationships is the focus of psychiatric nursing.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

AIT also offers higher certificate programmes in the growing areas of dental nursing and pharmacy technician; both of which have proven extremely popular with students and with employers since their introduction. The Department of Nursing and Health Science at AIT has continued to develop courses to meet the expanding requirements of the healthcare industry. The Department now offers a range of pre- and post-registration education programmes to equip nurses with the knowledge and competence to enable them to attain their goals within the profession of nursing. The Department of Nursing and Health Science is accommodated in a state-of-the-art purpose-built building on the East Campus. In addition to its three undergraduate honours degrees, the department is seeking prospective students from qualified nurses and allied health professionals for new and exciting programmes at NQAI Levels 8 and 9, in areas such as gerontology, palliative care, challenging behaviour and in lactation studies, which will lead to postgraduate certificates, higher diplomas, postgraduate diplomas and Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s qualifications.

AIT has been a pioneer in nursing and health science research, and currently has 15 Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and doctoral students undertaking research in areas as diverse as the development of novel pulse UV light technology for decontaminating cryptosporidium in water; clinical incident reporting in healthcare; blood-borne viruses in haemodialysis units; barriers women encounter accessing breast cancer services in Ireland; food safety â&#x20AC;&#x201C; development of novel bio-processing technologies; and diet in the elderly and links with dementia.

Why Choose Nursing and Health Science at AIT? n Nursing programmes are delivered

in a modern state-of-the-art Nursing and Health Science Building.

Department of Nursing and Health Science Progression Chart Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Bachelor of Science in Dental Practice Management with Oral Health Promotion

Bachelor of Science in Clinical Pharmacy Practice (Level 7) + 1 year

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health Science and Nutrition

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in General Nursing

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing

(Level 8)

4 years ab initio

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing (Level 8) 1-5 years part-time (ACCS)

(Level 7) + 1 year

n As a graduate of AIT your nursing

qualification is recognised and respected throughout the world. n Students benefit from the various

areas of expertise available at the three general hospitals in the HSE Midlands area, in Tullamore, Portlaoise, and Mullingar. n The department is pioneering research

in the area of nursing and health science in Irish third level institutions.

Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing

Higher Certificate in Science (Pharmacy Technician)

(Level 6)

2 years

2 years START HERE

n AIT is the only Irish higher education

institution participating in a pan-European food technologies and food safety postgraduate initiative.

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Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing Dental nurses play an important role in the modern dental practice. They assist the dentist during dental procedures. Their duties include preparing the surgery, setting out dental instruments, assisting during operations, dealing with patients and looking after cleanliness of the surgery. They may also be responsible for administrative duties such as making appointments and book-keeping. Dental nurses are typically employed by a dentist in private practice, by dental hospitals and by the HSE. This course will give you the appropriate multi-disciplined skills to enable you to play a key role in dental practices. These skills are in the nursing and business areas and will enable you to contribute effectively to the modern dental practice.

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Laboratory-based science subject at Grade D3 in higher-level or B3 in ordinary level, plus four subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

FETAC Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable. Applicants to this programme are required, however, to have the module Mathematics (C20139), Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) or Mathematics for Computing (C20175) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics. They must also have the module Biology (C20006) at minimum Merit level or alternatively have a Leaving Certificate Science subject at minimum B3 in ordinary level.

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AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

Modules Year 1 Anatomy and Physiology, Biological Sciences, Disease and Infection Control, Material Science, Office Administration, Clinical Dentistry, Placement (10 weeksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; duration).

Year 2 Pharmacology, Legal, Health and Safety, Financial and Cost Accounting, Behavioural Science and Communications, Materials, Clinical Dentistry, Practice Placement (10 weeksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; duration).

Duration 2 year Mode Full-time Level 6

Progression

Application to

After graduating from this programme you may apply to join the BSc in Dental Practice Management with Oral Health Promotion at AIT. Some graduates have been awarded places on dental hygiene courses through the UCAS UK college entry system.

CAO