AIT undergraduate prospectus 2011/12 by Athlone Institute of Technology

Institiúid Teicneolaíochta Bhaile Átha Luain Bóthair Bhaile Átha Cliath Baile Átha Luain Co na hIarmhí Éire

Athlone Institute of Technology Dublin Road Athlone Co Westmeath Ireland

www.ait.ie

T +353 (0)90 6468000 F +353 (0)90 6468148 W www.ait.ie

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Athlone Institute of Technology Undergraduate Prospectus 2011-2012

Investing in your future

Athlone Institute of Technology

Undergraduate Prospectus

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Athlone Institute of Technology

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10 Top Reasons to Choose AIT 1

AIT Graduates Enjoy Excellent Prospects

Less than one-fifth of AIT’s graduates were seeking employment six months after completing their course in 2009.

Large Number of Internships

Postgraduate Study Opportunities

More People Complete their Studies at AIT

A World of International Linkages

Athlone Offers Quality, Excellent Value Accommodation

According to a rental report published by Daft.ie, Athlone offers some of the best value student accommodation in Ireland.

Proven Track Record in Securing Research Funding

Sports Excellence is Rewarded

An Attractive Modern Campus

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.

AIT offers an increasing array of taught and research-based postgraduate opportunities. A quarter of honours degree graduates progress to postgraduate study.

More than 81% of all AIT students completed their course at the institute, 6% higher than the national average. Some 92% of Level 8 students finish their honours degree at the institute.

AIT has established relationships with 230 third level institutions around the world, while 10% of the full-time student body comes from overseas. AIT students have the opportunity to study at partner universities in places as diverse as New York, Beijing and Emden.

AIT has a proven track record in securing research funding and has received €23 million since 2005. The institute is also one of the most successful higher education institutions nationally in securing applied research funding.

AIT’s Sports Scholarship Scheme offers excellent benefits for those who have excelled – or who have the potential to excel – at their chosen sport. Potentially worth €4,800 over a maximum of four years, it’s something worth going that extra mile in training for.

€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 Postgraduate Research Hub (€2m) and the FIFA astro-turf pitch and IAAF-approved athletics track (€2m). Plans are well advanced for the development of a major indoor sporting arena.

10 Athlone: In the Heart of the Country

Located right in the centre of the country, getting to Athlone couldn’t be easier. The town is very well served with an improving road infrastructure and excellent public transport.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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CLÁRANNA NUA

NEW PROGRAMMES CAO code Programme

Page no.

AL008

Bachelor of Arts in Hotel and Leisure Management

175

AL012

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

121

AL019

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

105

AL026

Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering

AL045

Bachelor of Arts in Tourism and Guest Services Management

174

AL046

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications 108

AL055

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Society and Communications

140

Bachelor of Arts in Childcare Management

149

CLÁR ÁBHAIR

CONTENTS Welcome from the President

About Athlone and the Midlands

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

134

School of Science

182

Useful Contacts

212

Glossary

213

Index

215

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Nóta Faisnéise Níl tátal le baint as an réamheolaire eolais seo go bhfuil dualgas dlíthiúil ar lucht bainistíochta Institiúid Teicneolaíochta Bhaile Átha Luain cúrsaí nó seirbhísí eile a sholáthar do mhic léinn. Eisítear é ar an gcoinníoll shonrach nach cuid d’aon chonradh idir an institiúid agus aon mhac léinn é no aon tríú pártí. Tá sé de cheart ag an institiúid na cúrsaí atá le fáil san fhoilseachán seo a chur ar ceal nó ar fionraí nó iad a bhunathrú ar aon bhealach.

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.

AIT 1970-2010

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FÁILTe Ón UaChTaRÁn WElCOME fROM ThE PRESIdENT With the current downturn in the economy, it has never been more important to consider carefully your education and career future. at aIT, we are very aware of the changing needs of employers and the skills required by graduates in a fastchanging world. By studying on one of our programmes you will benefit from the latest thinking and approaches, as well as having an opportunity to apply that knowledge in the context of internships and coursework. This real-world orientation over four decades has helped ensure that our graduates continue to find success in the jobs market, whether in Ireland or overseas.

WELCOME TO AIT. I TRuST THAT yOu WILL FIND THIS PROSPECTuS OF OuR uNDERGRADuATE PROGRAMMES FOR THE ACADEMIC yEAR 2011/2012 OF BENEFIT AS yOu MAkE yOuR CHOICES ABOuT HIGHER EDuCATION.

our campus is truly multicultural, with one in ten full-time students coming from outside Ireland. as a learner, this exposure to a global perspective enhances what and how you learn. even more than that, our partnerships with leading universities around the globe means that you can study overseas for a single semester or a full year. This diverse student population enriches the learning environment and brings a global perspective to all aspects of college life – from the academic to the sporting and social. The common denominator amongst all of our students is that at aIT, they are treated and respected as individuals. That personal attention creates a common bond whether you’re from Mullingar or Ballinasloe; Turin or shanghai.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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The government has mapped out its vision for the future of this country in its smart economy strategy. That plan calls for Ireland to become a knowledge-based society, and at AIT we are creating the infrastructure and opportunities to develop the knowledge workers required to deliver this ambitious vision. Although it may seem a long way off now, it is worth pointing out that we have an expanding suite of taught and research-based postgraduate opportunities available across all of our faculties. Indeed, AIT has one of the most impressive track records of any higher education institution in Ireland in undertaking applied research, which also informs and enriches our undergraduate programmes. Away from the lecture theatre and the library, there is much to do in Athlone. The institute has a vibrant social scene and a wide variety of clubs and societies. If sport is your thing, you’ll want to check out the leisure suite, as well as our indoor and outdoor facilities. Our sports scholarship programme rewards excellence in performance and is one of the most extensive in the country. Our new athletics and astro-turf facilities are attracting national and international sport stars, who are using the institute as a world-class training base. We are also the host venue for the national finals of the HSE Community Games. There are many course choices contained within the pages of this prospectus. If you have a question about any of them, please feel free to contact the relevant department or the Admissions Office. Best of luck with your search.

Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin

Fáilte chuig AIT. Tá súil agam go mbeidh tú in ann leas a bhaint as an réamheolaire seo d’ár gcuid clár fochéime don bhliain acadúil 2011/2012 agus tú ag iarraidh cúrsa ardoideachais a roghnú. Mar gheall ar an gcor chun donais atá tar éis tarlú i dtaca leis an ngeilleagar, tá sé níos tábhachtaí ná riamh machnamh a dhéanamh go cúramach faoi do thodhchaí ó thaobh oideachais agus gairme de. Ag AIT tuigimid go rímhaith riachtanais na bhfostóirí, riachtanais atá ag athrú, agus na scileanna a theastaíonn ó chéimithe i ndomhan atá ag athrú go sciobtha. Trí staidéar a dhéanamh ar cheann d’ár gcuid clár bainfidh tú leas as an smaointeoireacht agus na cineálacha cur chuige is déanaí, chomh maith le deis a bheith agat an t-eolas sin a chur i bhfeidhm i gcomhthéacs intéirneachtaí agus oibre cúrsa. Ós rud é go mbímid ag díriú ar an bhfíordhomhan le daichead bliain anuas tá sin ina chabhair le cinntiú go leanann ár gcuid céimithe orthu de bheith ag baint rath amach i margaí na bpost, bíodh sin in Éirinn nó thar lear. Tá ár gcampas fíorilchultúrtha, ós rud é nach as Éirinn iad duine amháin as gach deichniúr d’ár gcuid mac léinn. Mar fhoghlaimeoir, cuireann an nochtadh seo ar pheirspictíocht dhomhanda feabhas ar an méid a fhoghlaimíonn tú agus conas a fhoghlaimíonn tú é. Níos fearr arís, fágann na comhpháirtíochtaí atá i bhfeidhm againn le cuid de phríomhollscoileanna an domhain gur féidir leat bheith ag staidéar thar lear ar feadh seimeastair nó ar feadh bliana iomláine. Cuireann an daonra mic léinn seo ó chúlraí éagsúla feabhas ar an timpeallacht fhoghlama agus bronnann sé peirspictíocht dhomhanda ar gach gné de shaol na hollscoile – idir acadúil, spórtúil agus shóisialta. An rud atá i gcomhpháirt ag ár gcuid mac léinn ar fad ná go bpléitear leo agus go léirítear meas dóibh mar dhaoine aonair in AIT. Cruthaítear nasc coitianta ag an aird phearsanta sin, is cuma más as an Muileann gCearr nó Béal Átha na Sluaighe tú, as Torino nó Shang-hai.

Tá an rialtas tar éis a fhís do thodhchaí na tíre seo a leagan amach ina straitéis faoin ngeilleagar cliste. Éilíonn an plean sin go ndéanfaí sochaí atá eolasbhunaithe, agus in AIT táimid ag cruthú an infrastruchtúir agus na ndeiseanna leis na hoibrithe eolais sin a chruthú a theastaíonn leis an bhfís uaillmhianach seo a sheachadadh. Cé gur féidir go bhfeictear duit go bhfuil a leithéid i bhfad ar shiúl sa todhchaí is fiú cur in iúl go bhfuil tacar deiseanna iarchéime múinte agus bunaithe ar thaighde atá ag leathnú agus atá ar fáil sna dámha ar fad. Déanta na fírinne tá tuairisc AIT ar na cinn is suntasaí a bhaineann le hinstitiúid oideachais ar bith in Éirinn maidir le tabhairt faoi thaighde feidhmeach, rud a théann i bhfeidhm agus a chuireann feabhas ar ár gcuid clár fochéime. Taobh amuigh den léachtlann agus den leabharlann, bíonn cuid mhór gníomhaíochtaí ar siúl i mBaile Átha Luain. Tá saol sóisialta bríomhar ar siúl san institiúid, le moll mór clubanna agus cumann. Má tá suim agat i gcúrsaí spóirt, beidh tú ag iarraidh aithne a chur ar an áis fóillíochta, chomh maith lenár gcuid áiseanna laistigh agus lasmuigh. Tugann ár gclár scoláireachtaí luach a saothair do na daoine sin a léiríonn feabhas feidhmíochta agus tá sé ar na cláir is leitheadaí den chineál seo atá ar fáil ar fud na tíre. Tá réaltaí spóirt náisiúnta agus idirnáisiúnta á mealladh ag ár gcuid áiseanna nua lúthchleasaíochta agus astroturf – baineann siad úsáid as an institiúid mar ionad oiliúna den scoth. Táimid inár n-óstionad babhta ceannais náisiunta Chluichí Pobail na FSS chomh maith. Tá a lán roghanna cúrsa ar fáil laistigh de leathanaigh an réamheolaire seo. Má bhíonn ceist agat faoi aon cheann acu, ná bíodh leisce ar bith ort teagmháil a dhéanamh leis an rannóg ábhartha nó leis an Oifig Iontrálacha. Go n-éirí leat agus tú ag lorg cúrsa.

An tOllamh Ciarán Ó Catháin

AIT 1970-2010

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FÁILTe

eloe ‫وعلى‬،‫ومرافقه‬ ،‫منشآتهومرافقه‬ ‫يعرفكمعلىعلىمنشآته‬ ‫للتكنولوجياأنأنيعرفكم‬ ‫آثلونللتكنولوجيا‬ ‫معهدآثلون‬ ‫يسرمعهد‬ ‫يسر‬ ‫وعلى‬ ‫بالبرامجاملتاحة‬ ‫قائمةبالبرامج‬ ‫توفيرقائمة‬ ‫يسرهتوفير‬ ‫كماكمايسره‬،‫للطالب‬ ،‫املقدمةللطالب‬ ‫اخلدماتاملقدمة‬ ‫اخلدمات‬ ‫املتاحةفيفي‬ ‫يثير‬ ‫ما‬ ‫بالتأكيد‬ ‫جتدون‬ ‫وسوف‬ .2010/2011 ‫الدراسي‬ ‫العام‬ ‫ وسوف جتدون بالتأكيد ما يثير‬.2010/2011 2011/2012 ‫العام الدراسي‬ ‫العمليضمن‬ ‫مستقبلكالعملي‬ ‫التقدمفيفيمستقبلك‬ ‫إحرازالتقدم‬ ‫ويساعدكمعلىعلىإحراز‬ ‫اهتمامكمويساعدكم‬ ‫اهتمامكم‬ ‫ضمن‬ ‫العام‬ ‫في‬ ‫املعهد‬ ‫في‬ ‫الدارسني‬ ‫ضمن‬ ‫بكم‬ ‫الترحيب‬ ‫نتمنى‬ .‫البرامج‬ ‫ نتمنى الترحيب بكم ضمن الدارسني في املعهد في العام‬.‫هذههذه البرامج‬ .2010/2011‫الدراسي‬ ‫الدراسي‬ .2010/2011 2011/2012 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 2011/2012学年施、为学生提供的各项服务，以及2010/2011 2010/2011 学年施、为学生提供的各项服务，以及相关课程的说明。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2010/2011 学年就读本学院。 2011/2012学年就读本学院。欢迎您在2010/2011

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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. athlone Institute of Technology instituutilla on ilo esitellä itsensä perustiedoin ja antaen tietoja opiskelijoille tarjoamistaan tiloista ja palveluista sekä lukuvuoden 2011/2012 aikana tarjottavien ohjelmien pääpiirteistä. Toivomme että löydätte teitä kiinnostavan ja uraodotuksianne vastaavan kurssin, sekä odotamme voivamme toivottaa teidät tervetulleeksi instituuttiin akateemisena lukuvuotena 2011/2012.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012 zu präsentieren. Wir hoffen, daß Sie einen Kurs finden, der Sie interessiert und Ihr Karrierestreben unterstützt, und wir freuen uns, Sie im akademischen Jahr 2011/2012 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012, 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 2010/2011. 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 2010/2011. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012.

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 2011/2012. 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 boas-vindas ao Instituto durante o ano acadêmico de 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012. 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 2011/2012.

AIT 1970-2010

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FaoI BhaILe ÁTha LUaIn aGUs an RÉIGIún LÁR na TíRe AoUT ATlone And Te IdlAndS 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.

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 (there are five golf courses within short driving-distance of the town), horse-riding and racing, hunting, tennis, scuba-diving, rowing, sailing, cruising, hockey, camogie, rugby, soccer and Gaelic football. 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 aIB League Division 1B and their home, Dubarry park, shot to international prominence as venue for all of Ireland’s home under-20 rugby internationals since 2006. soccer club, athlone Town, plays in Division 1 of the national League of Ireland, and their new stadium was officially opened in 2007. There is an impressive Gaa club and pavilion, swimming pools, a bowling alley and a number of gymnasia in town as well as facilities for equestrian sports. athlone Regional sports Centre

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incorporates a 25-metre heated swimming pool, a fully-equipped fitness suite, a small 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, Tyco Mallinckrodt, ICT eurotel, Utah Medical, Lund International, M&C specialties, Io systems, athlone extrusions, Vitabond, alienware, one Direct, aXa Insurance, Innocol, pharmaplaz, Teleflex and KCI Medical. The Irish headquarters of leading Us university, Georgia Tech, is based in athlone and operate a number of collaborations with aIT. The town is also the regional centre for enterprise Ireland, the

IDa, FÁs and the Defence Forces, and the location of the examinations and salaries section of the Department of education and skills. 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 family-owned, 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 Clonmacnois 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 nenaghborn 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

AIT 1970-2010

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Faoi Institiúid Teicneolaíochta Bhaile Átha Luain

About Athlone Institute of Technology

Ráiteas Misin Déanfar coláiste d’AIT a roghnóidh foghlaimeoirí agus foireann sa réigiún, sa tír agus go hidirnáisiúnta. Bainfear é seo amach trí sármhaitheas nuálaíoch a chur chun cinn i dteagasc agus trí feabhas a chur ar an dtimpeallacht atá dírithe ar fhoghlaim, trí clú láidir maidir i dtaobh taighde a chur ar bun, trí nuálaíocht agus comhoibriú tionsclaíoch, agus trí ról ceannasaíochta i bhforbairt eacnamaíoch, chultúrtha agus ó thaobh an chomhshaoil de i dTairseach/réigiún Lár na Tíre.

Mission Statement AIT will become a college of choice for learners and staff regionally, nationally and internationally. This will be achieved through the development of innovative excellence in teaching and enhancement of the learning-centred environment, the establishment of a strong reputation in research, innovation and industrial collaboration, and a leadership role in the economic, social, cultural and environmental development of Midlands Gateway/region.

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.

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A new strategic plan for the institute, which sets out a vision to 2013, establishes a series of ambitious targets including increasing student numbers by 40 per cent; developing e-learning platforms for students; generating research income of €10 million per annum; and increasing collaboration across the higher education and industry sectors. Approximately €100 million has been invested in AIT’s campus since 2000, with a new Engineering and Informatics Building opening in September 2010. A new postgraduate research hub also opened recently, while the institute’s new track and field facilities are garnering considerable acclaim. Extensive off-campus modern student accommodation is available within walking distance of the institute. These developments have mirrored the growth in AIT and are assessed by the Students’ Union to ensure that the interests of students are fully represented.

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 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 the ab initio course. n Class groups are small, allowing for

greater individual attention. n Courses have a strong practical

element, with many involving industrial or clinical placements. 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.

Schools’ Liaison Office 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. n The institute organises a comprehensive

programme of school visits and information events. Amongst the services provided are: n School visits: institute representatives

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. n If you wish to request a school visit or

require further information, please contact the Schools’ Liaison Officer, Helena Kenny (telephone: 090 647 1883 and email: hkenny@ait.ie).

Open Days 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, 12 and 13 November 2010, provides 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 12 January 2011.

Getting to/from the institute Bus Services 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, DublinWestport 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]

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Faoi ár gCúrsaí About our Programmes 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 sample a discipline for two years, to change direction in your studies, to take time out between qualifications to work, and to move between one institution and another as you climb the ladder. 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

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 (HETAC-accredited) awards up to Level 9 taught programmes and for Level 9 research awards. 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.

receive that qualification on successful completion of the relevant three or four-year programme.

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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.

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 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 (Level 7)

3 years ab initio

3 or 4 years ab initio 1 year add-on

Higher Certificate Programme (Level 6)

Foundation Certificate (Level 5)

2 years ab initio

Leaving Certificate (Level 5)

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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)

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

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. Corequisites 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. You will be facilitated to register for additional modules beyond the normal requirements of a programme provided they do not exceed the acceptable course loads of 40 eCTs credits in a single semester and 75 eCTs credits in a two-semester academic session.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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Saol sa CholĂĄiste College Life

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-theart 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 & stretch and hips, bums and tums classes. 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. Plans are at an advanced stage to provide a new modern indoor sports centre which will cater for all major indoor sports. It is hoped that this facility will proved eight new dressing rooms, a two-court sports hall, elite

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squad weights room, recreational fitness suite, rehabilitation rooms and a sports performance testing laboratory. 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. Inter-college 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 thirty 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 2009/10 scholarship recipients included Paul Harte (Buccaneers RFC AIL Division 1 & Irish Colleges), Ray Galligan (Cavan senior footballer), Neil Harney (St Patrick’s Athletic and former Irish schools player), Gary Connaughton (former All-Star and Westmeath senior footballer), and Aisling Egan (Irish colleges soccer and Bealnamulla FC).

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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 huge 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*.

the union is decided by the students at general meetings. The aims of the union are: n

to represent and protect the rights of students;

to afford a recognised means of communication between the students and institute authorities;

* Indicates separate clubs for males and females.

to provide social and recreational facilities for students; and

Societies

to provide a commercial service to students.

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

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 campuses. 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.

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TÁILLí, DeonTas aGUs CoThaBhÁIL fEES GRANTS ANd MAINTENANCE 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 are currently no tuition fees required for Irish and eU nationals undertaking fulltime 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 Services Fee The student services fee covers examinations, insurance, capitation and registration costs. It 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 academic term. This fee was €1,500 in 2010/2011 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 contact the Fees and Grants office.

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.

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Sports Scholarship AIT awards thirty 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

Approx. Total

195

225

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Seirbhísí agus Saoráidí do Mhic Léinn

Student Supports

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 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

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Careers Fair AIT’s Career Fair is a major event in the life of final year students and graduates of AIT. The 2009/2010 fair was the largest such event held outside of Dublin, with over 50 employers exhibiting. These ranged from public and private sector employers, as well as local, national and international companies. The 2010/2011 Careers Fair will be held on 11 November 2010.

Graduate Survey The latest Graduate Survey is the first to record the career journeys of AIT’s graduates since the beginning of the economic downturn. Despite widespread pessimism, the picture it paints is broadly positive with just 2.9% of honours degree graduates seeking employment six months after completing their study. Over threequarters were in full-time employment, while 15% progressed to postgraduate study. At Levels 6 and 7, an overwhelming majority of students continued their studies to the next level on the ladder. Some 88% of higher certificate holders progressed to an ordinary degree, while 76% of degree holders continued their studies to honours degree level. One in ten Level 6 graduates had obtained a full-time job, while one-fifth of Level 7 graduates were in full-time employment.

Student Tutors 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.

Peer Assisted Student Support (PASS) This programme has grown out of a successful pilot/trial in 2008/09 and is currently available on a limited number of courses throughout the institute. 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 years of your course. 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

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. 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.

n prepare better for assignments and exams

Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) The Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) is a supplementary admissions scheme for school leavers with disabilities. DARE was established by a number of higher education institutions as clear evidence shows that disability can have a negative impact on educational attainment at school and on progression to higher education. 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 minimum entry and subject requirements.

Who should apply to DARE? DARE is for school leavers (under 23 years old as at 1 January 2011) who have the

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ability to benefit from and succeed in higher education, but who may not be able to meet the points for their preferred course due to the impact of a disability. Mature students have different admissions routes and you can get further information on these routes from AIT.

How to apply to DARE? School leavers who wish to be considered for DARE must apply as part of their CAO application (www.cao.ie) by 1 February 2011. Applicants must indicate that they have a disability/specific learning difficulty and are then directed to the separate online application form. This form asks applicants to provide additional information about their disability or specific learning difficulty and to provide evidence of disability. Applicants must also indicate their wish to be considered for DARE. Supporting documents must be sent to the CAO by 1 April 2011. More information on DARE is available from your school guidance counsellor or from the 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. DARE closing dates: 1 February 2011: Complete all elements of DARE application as part of the CAO application process

1 April 2011: Supporting documents submitted to the CAO

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 preentry 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.

CrĂ¨che While an on-campus crĂ¨che is not currently available, a subsidy for those using private childminding services is available for eligible applicants through the Student Services Department.

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Library

TacaĂocht Foghlamtha Learning Supports

The Goldsmith Library at AIT is an integral part of the institute and it plays a central role in academic life. It supports the educational and research activities of the institution by providing a comprehensive information service. In recent years the library has taken on an educational role by providing instruction in the use of information technology. We have a purpose-built modern library which contains 400 study places and a total book stock of some 29,000 volumes. The library currently subscribes to over 260 print journal titles covering subjects in business, engineering, humanities and science. However, many journals are now available in electronic format and the A-Z list on the library webpages provides links to some 30,000 e-journals. The library also subscribes to 33 subject databases accessible through the web. The computer room in the library contains open access PCs and internet access, and information sessions are conducted for students. Students are encouraged to conduct research by using the web databases linked from the library homepage. Library users may book a machine and request individual instruction on searching the databases and the internet. Group information sessions are also provided in collaboration with lecturers. In addition, the library has 12 open access PCs with internet connections, which are not subject to booking and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Photocopiers for student use are also available within the library. The Millennium integrated library system provides seamless integration of electronic information sources from internet websites to e-journals and subject databases. The library webpage acts as a one-stop shop facility providing search services of bookstock, e-journals, databases, and past examination papers. The A-Z journal title list provides links to the catalogue record for the print title and also a link to the full-text in the electronic version of the same title. The

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webpage also provides a range of subject guides, citing and referencing guides, database searching information and online information tutorials. A range of self-service options are available on the webpage such as book purchase requests, information session booking, inter-library loan requests and an online reference service ‘Ask a librarian’. These facilities are available on a 24/7 basis accessible from the user’s desktop. Library staff are available to help students to use the search facility and to answer information queries. Any material not held in the library can be obtained from other libraries using the inter-library loan facility. While there is a charge per item for this service, registered final-year students are entitled to four free inter-library loans per year.

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 150seat open access area for students involved in project and research work, while there is an additional 12-seat 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.

In Athlone, you may choose from French, German and Spanish. Those with no previous knowledge of a language will have the opportunity to study either German or Spanish at beginners’ 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. Language specific to your own course of study (business, computing, hotel management, etc.) is also taught..

Language Laboratories

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 Employers’ 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 language laboratories at the institute offer facilities for the intensive practice of linguistic skills. In addition to a traditional language laboratory, AIT has a state-of-theart multimedia language laboratory to ensure 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. 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.

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Próifíl Idirnáisiúnta International Profile 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. 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

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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 Zhejiang University City College,

n Beijing University of Chemical

n Higher Colleges of Technology, United

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]

Hangzhou, China [Software Engineering] 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] n Technical and Vocational Training

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

n Southeast University, Nanjing, China

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

[Master of Science in Software Engineering]

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International Offi ce 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

assistance to international students, in the areas of accommodation, welfare, academic and social life

assistance to aIT students with international ambitions, in the area of finding placements, long-term employment and exchange programmes

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)90 642 4562 Fax: +353 (0)90 642 4627 email: international@ait.ie

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 2011. application forms and procedures are available from www.ait.ie.

Certifi cate 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 Three-week study abroad programme (June/July 2011) for international students 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 civilization. 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

to offer an analysis of the recent development of the Irish economy and the consequent transformation of Irish society

to expose participants to Irish culture, including literature, theatre, visual arts, Irish language, music, dance, sport, food and drink.

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. Further details (and application forms) may be obtained from the website: www.ait.ie, telephone + 353 (0)90 642 4562, facsimile +353 (0)90 642 4627 and email: international@ait.ie.

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Saoráidí Tacaíocht don Iontrála Entry/ Admission Support Services

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. 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, Peer Assisted Student Support (PASS) and the Writing Skills Programme. For more information on any of these initiatives, contact the Access Office.

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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.

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.

RPL includes: 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.

d n fou

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

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.

(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.

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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.

RPL Policy 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. Recognition or accreditation will only be given: (i) For complete modules/subjects (ii) Where a minimum of 50% of the learning outcomes for the module are achieved (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 4438 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 individual’s area of activity.

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 page 22.

Nós

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 applicant’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

n o i t a d n 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

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Imeachta chun Iarratas a Dhéanamh do AIT

Applying to AIT 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 160, 164). 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.

Honours Bachelor Degrees – Level 8 (HD) Code

Title (Honours Bachelor Degrees – Level 8)

Page

AL032

Software Design (Game Development)

112

AL033

Toxicology

191

AL034

Software Design (Web Development)

114

AL035

Construction Technology and Management

AL050

Business

AL051

Accounting

AL052

Design (Visual Communications)

164

AL053

Pharmaceutical Sciences

198

AL054

Social Care Practice

AL055

Society and Communications

140

AL057

Business and Law

AL058

Accounting and Law

AL110

General Nursing

206

AL111

General Nursing – Mature Applicants

206

AL112

Psychiatric Nursing

208

AL113

Psychiatric Nursing – Mature Applicants

208

151

Application for the following courses must be made to the: Central Applications Office, Tower House, Eglinton Street, Galway Tel: Fax: Web:

091 509 800 091 562 344 www.cao.ie

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Ordinary Bachelor Degrees – Level 7 (DG) Higher Certificates – Level 6 (HC) Code

Title (Ordinary Bachelor Degrees – Level 7)

Qualification

AL008

Hotel and Leisure Management

175

AL012

Mechanical Engineering

DG + HD

121

AL014

Sustainable Construction

AL017

Spa Management

177

AL019

Computer Engineering

DG + HD

105

AL020

Design (Communications)

DG + HD

160

AL021

Biotechnology

DG + HD

193

AL022

Business Computing

DG + HD

AL024

Engineering – Mechatronics

DG + HD

126

AL026

Civil Engineering

DG + HD

AL029

Veterinary Nursing

AL044

Real Estate (Valuation and Management)

DG + HD

AL045

Tourism and Guest Services Management

174

AL046

Electronics and Wireless Communications

DG + HD

108

AL047

Computer Network Management

DG + HD

110

AL048

Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

DG + HD

Code

Title (Higher Certificates – Level 6)

Qualification

AL001

Business

HC + DG + HD

AL002

Culinary Arts

AL003

Office Management

HC + DG + HD

AL004

Bar Supervision

172

AL006

Applied Social Studies in Social Care

HC + DG + HD

144

AL007

Childcare Supervisory Management

AL009

Hospitality Studies

173

AL010

Mechanical Engineering

HC + DG + HD

119

AL011

Electronics and Computer Engineering

HC + DG + HD

103

AL013

Civil Engineering

HC + DG + HD

AL015

Construction Studies

HC + DG

AL016

Science (Bioscience/Chemistry)

HC + DG + HD

195

Accounting Technician

AL025

123 Page 52 180

146

s e e r g e AL023

Page

188

+ HD

Business (Equine Studies)

HC + DG

AL027

Business (Sport and Recreation)

HC + DG + HD

168

AL041

Pharmacy Technician

205

AL042

Dental Nursing

204

AL043

Music and Instrument Technology

HC + DG

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Dates of Application – CAO Programmes for entry in September 2011 Closing date Late closing date Change of mind date

1 February 2011 1 May 2011 1 July 2011

Re-admission Applicants Closing date

22 July 2011

Deferred Entry – CAO Programmes The institute will facilitate successful applicants who wish to postpone entry for a year in order to undertake relevant employment or voluntary work. The procedure is as follows: 1. applicants should not accept the offer through the CAO; 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.

Leaving Certificate Streams

Scoring System for Foundation Level Mathematics

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: Leaving Certificate Grade

Higher Level Points

Ordinary Level Points

100

Foundation Level Subjects Foundation Level Irish at grade B3 meets the minimum language requirement. No points are awarded. Foundation Level Mathematics at minimum grade B2 will be accepted as meeting the minimum Mathematics requirements for entry to the following courses:

Grade

Points

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.

C I L APP Notes:

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.

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 aptitude test and interview.

(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.

AL006 Higher Certificate in Arts in Applied Social Studies in Social Care (Level 6) AL007 Higher Certificate in Childcare Supervisory Management (Level 6) AL054

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

AL020

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

AL052

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

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AL033 Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Toxicology AL053 Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Sciences Leaving Certificate with Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects, Mathematics at Grade B3 at ordinary level, plus three subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. The six subjects must include a language (English or Irish).

AL052 Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Design in Visual Communications

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:

AL020 Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communications)

AL041 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).

AL029 Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing AL042 Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing

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.

AL110 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in General Nursing AL112 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 laboratorybased science subject.

N O I T A C 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.

AL023 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.

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:

Mature applicants will be required to undertake an aptitude test and interview.

Qualifications other than Leaving Certificate FETAC Level 5 Qualifications

The following system applies to graduates of FETAC Level 5 courses seeking admission to the institute in 2011.

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CAO Code

Programme

Level

Required FETAC Level 5

Required FETAC Module(s) included in FETAC Award

AL001

Higher Certificate in Business

Any

None

AL002

Higher Certificate in Culinary Arts

Any

None

AL003

Higher Certificate in Business in Office Management

Any

None

AL004

Higher Certificate in Bar Supervision

Any

None

AL006

Higher Certificate in Applied Social Studies in Social Care

Any

FETAC Module G20031 or D20003 or D20169 or D20180 or D20179

AL007

Higher Certificate in Arts in Childcare Supervisory Management

Any

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

AL009

Higher Certificate in Hospitality Studies

Any

None

AL010

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL011

Higher Certificate in Electronics and Computer Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL013

Higher Certificate in Civil Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL015

Higher Certificate in Construction Studies

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL016

Higher Certificate in Science (Bioscience/Chemistry)

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL025

Higher Certificate in Business in Equine Studies

Any

None

AL027

Higher Certificate in Business in Sport and Recreation

Any

None

AL041

Higher Certificate in Science (Pharmacy Technician)

Any

FETAC Module C20139 and FETAC Module C20006

AL042

Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing

Any

FETAC Module C20139 and FETAC Module C20006 at minimum Merit level

AL043

Higher Certificate in Business with Music and Instrument Technology

Any

None

AL008

Bachelor of Arts in Hotel and Leisure Management

Any

None

AL012

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL014

Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Construction

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL017

Bachelor of Arts in Spa Management

Any

None

AL019

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL020

Bachelor of Arts in Design (Communications)

Any

None

AL021

Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

Any

FETAC Module C20139

AL022

Bachelor of Science in Business Computing

Any

FETAC Module C20175

AL024

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL026

Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL029

Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing

Any

FETAC Module C20139 and FETAC Module C20006 at minimum Merit level

AL044

Bachelor of Business in Real Estate (Valuation & Management)

Any

None

AL045

Bachelor of Arts in Tourism and Guest Services

Any

None

AL046

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL047

Bachelor of Science in Computer Network Management

Any

FETAC Module C20174 or C20175

AL048

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy

Any

FETAC Module C20174

AL032

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

CITXX

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Toxicology

AL033

FETAC Module C20174 or C20175 Must possess distinctions in three modules

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 at minimum Merit level Must possess distinctions in three modules

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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CAO Code

Programme

Level

Required FETAC Level 5

Required FETAC Module(s) included in FETAC Award

AL034

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

CITXX

FETAC Module C20174 or C20175

AL035

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Construction Technology and Management

CCONT

FETAC Module C20174

AL050

Bachelor of Business (Hons)

BBSAX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

Must possess distinctions in three modules Must possess distinctions in three modules BBSXX BMXXX BBSBS BBSSX

AL051

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting

BBSAX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

BBSXX AL052

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Design in Visual Communications

AAXXX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

ADESX AACDX AGDXX AL053

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Sciences

CASLT

FETAC Module C20139 at minimum Merit level

AL054

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Social Care Practice

DCHSC

FETAC Module G20031

DCHSN

Must possess distinctions in three modules

DCHCC DCHSX AL055

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Society and Communications

ECDXX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

ECHSX ELESX ELAXX EMPXX EMMPX EPJXX ERPXX AL057

Bachelor of Business and Law (Hons)

BBSAX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

BBSXX BMXXX BBSBS BBSSX AL058

Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Law (Hons)

BBSAX

Must possess distinctions in three modules

BBSXX AL110

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Nursing in General Nursing

DCHSN DCHSX DHSXX

AL112

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

AIT 1970-2010

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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.

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.

n Bachelor of Science in Environmental,

Trade Qualifications

Non-CAO Applications

Honours Degree (Level 8) Programmes [one-year, addon programmes unless otherwise stated]

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.

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

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 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

n Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical

Technology two-year, part-time

n Bachelor of Science in Business

Foundation Level Programmes

Computing (Honours)

n Foundation Certificate Programme

n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

n Certificate in English and Academic

n Bachelor of Business (Honours) in

Studies, for International (non-EU) students

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

Digital Media

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

BTEC holders

Health and Safety Management, two-year part-time

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

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

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

Agricultural Studies n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in

Toxicology n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in

Biotechnology n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in

Nursing, through ACCS mode

Studies in Social Care n Bachelor of Arts in Childcare

Management n Bachelor of Science in Toxicology

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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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.

Bachelor of Business in International Business Management

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.

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.

AIT 1970-2010

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CLÁRú aGUs FoRChÉIMnIThe REGISTRATION ANd PROGRESSION 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 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.

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.

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.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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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.

AIT 1970-2010

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i t a c i n u m m o C ClĂĄir BunĂşsacha Foundation Programmes n Foundation Certificate Programme

n Certificate in English for Academic Studies for

International (non-EU) students

o i t a c i n u m m Co 42

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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d u t S d n a s n tio FOuNDATION CERTIFICATE PROGRAMME

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 Candidates under 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 of Irish). Mature applicants, aged 22 years or over on 1 January on year of commencement, who do not possess the Leaving Certificate are also eligible to apply. The selection procedure may involve an interview.

Modules Communications and study skills, Mathematics, Information Technology, educational Guidance, Business studies and Finance, social studies, science, engineering.

COURSE dETAIlS DuRATION

Note: a student may only attend the institute for one complete cycle of this programme

Progression

1 year MODE

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.

part-time

Further Information/ Application

APPLICATION TO

Access Offi ce Tel: Fax: email:

LEVEL 5

access office, aIT

+ 353 (0)90 642 4593 + 353 (0)90 642 4417 access@ait.ie

y d u t S d n a s ion AIT 1970-2010

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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 technology-related 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).

Minimum Entry Requirements

Progression

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.

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-level degree programme at the institute.

Applicants from non-EU countries must hold a valid visa for the duration of the course.

Fee

Modules English, Mathematics, Communications and Life Skills, Cultural Studies, Computing, Introduction to Business Studies, Introduction to Science and Technology. International students will also have two hours per week available to attend additional English language classes during their undergraduate studies.

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

Further Information/ Application Mary Simpson, Director of International Relations Telephone: +353 (0)90 642 4562 Fax: +353 (0)90 642 4627 Email: international@ait.ie

The course has been designed to: n provide you with an introduction to

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

S C I M E D A AC 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.

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COURSE DETAILS Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level N/A Application to International Office, AIT

S E I D C STU AIT 1970-2010

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D谩mh an GHN贸 Business School Introduction

Business and Management Studies

n Higher Certificate in Business

n Bachelor of Business one-year, add-on

n Higher Certificate in Business in Equine Studies

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting

n Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Applied Accounting 75

n Bachelor of Science in Business Computing

n Bachelor of Science in Business Computing (Honours)

one-year, add-on n Higher Diploma in Computing one-year

n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

one-year, add-on

n Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting

n Bachelor of Business in Real Estate

(Valuation and Management)

and Law four-year, ab initio

n Higher Certificate in Business with Music

and Instrument Technology

n Accounting Technicians Ireland Technician course

three-year, ab initio

n Higher Certificate in Business

in Office Management

Accounting and Business Computing

78 79

58 59

n Bachelor of Business in Equine Studies

one-year, add-on

n Bachelor of Business in

International Business Management

n Bachelor of Business (Honours)

four-year, ab initio

n Bachelor of Business and Law (Honours)

four-year, ab initio n Higher Diploma in Business one-year

64 66

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Peter Melinn Head of Department of Business and Management Studies Email: pmelinn@ait.ie Telephone: +353 (0)90 642 4507 Eoin Langan Head of Department of Accounting and Business Computing Email: elangan@ait.ie Telephone: +353 (0)90 642 4521

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 Educationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prospectus for details.

AIT 1970-2010

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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

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The Business School at AIT consists of two departments: Business Studies; 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), the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting and Law, and the Higher Certificate in Business with Music and Instrument Technology.

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

Bachelor of Business (Hons) (Level 8)

+ 1 year

4 years

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

ab initio

4 years

Higher Diploma in Business (Level 8) + 1 year

ab initio Bachelor of Business (Level 7) + 1 year

Bachelor of Bachelor Bachelor of Business of Business Business in International in Real Estate in Equine Business (Valuation and Studies Management Management) (Level 7) (Level 7) (Level 7) + 1 year 1 year 3 years

ab initio Higher Higher Certificate Certificate in in Business Business with Music and in Office Instrument Management Technology (Level 6) (Level 6) 2 years

Higher Certificate in Business (Level 6) 2 years

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

2 years START HERE

AIT 1970-2010

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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, the music instrument and technology business, or the real estate sector. This twin-track approach allows you to develop expert knowledge in a particular area, or, alternatively, to pursue a general business award. A variety of career prospects is available to business graduates. Here are just a few: general management, administration, banking, insurance, human resources, marketing, event management, advertising, public relations, sales, office management, information technology, and property management. 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. 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.

Why Choose Business and Management 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. n Our niche programmes are in 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. n Subject to eligibility, you may progress

to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree level/full professional examinations.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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What our graduates say…

Start Me Up BERNARD FLYNN

AIT business studies graduate and serial entrepreneur Bernard Flynn established and sold four businesses before he was 40. After leaving AIT he worked briefly for a time in Dublin, before moving to London, where he held a number of posts with a courier company. His first foray into owning his own business came in the sunny climes of Greece, where he established a water sports company. This proved short-lived, however, when war broke out in Yugoslavia and the Mediterranean tourist industry was hard hit. Back in Mullingar, Bernard set-up two companies in quick succession that forged a niche in the lunch and fast food delivery sectors, at a time when the idea was still a novel one. Both businesses were sold after two years of trading. The next decade of Bernard’s life was to see him operating in the sports attire, tourism and hospitality industries, experience that was to stand him in good stead when he launched his latest venture, Mullingar Crystal, in 2006. Set-up at a cost of €500,000, the company which produces contemporary prize ware for sports clubs, now employs four people. Focused primarily on export markets, the company conducts 60% of its business in the UK and is bullish about the power of the internet to sell its products. While Bernard says that he never set out to be an entrepreneur, an ability to see opportunities, combined with a strong work ethic, have turned him into one. He has been inspired by the attitude of US business people in facing into the current recession. ‘Instead of standing around moaning, they are taking a very positive, can-do approach. This has really inspired me to drive my business forward,’ he concludes.

Marketing Ireland’s Small Businesses OLLIE WALSH

European Champions CHRIS KEANE

Ollie Walsh is the managing director of Micromarketing, Ireland’s only marketing consultancy specialising in small business. A marketing graduate from AIT in 1994, he pursued postgraduate studies at NUIG.

Murrayfield, 23 May 2009, will live long in the memory of Leinster, and indeed Irish, rugby fans. The Blues had finally come good in their claim to European glory and defeated Leicester 19-16 in a pulsating final of the Heineken Cup. One member of the Leinster squad that day, who had made a mark during his college days, was scrum-half and AIT graduate, Chris Keane.

Self-employed since 1994, Ollie has owned several specialist retail stores and a music promotion agency. From his interest in small businesses he formed Micromarketing to specialise in their marketing and development. Having worked with small business marketing for over a decade, Ollie is vastly experienced with developing and implementing effective marketing strategies. ‘Small business owners are generally over-worked and underfunded and need the development and implementation of effective and efficient marketing plans to succeed. At Micromarketing, we provide all the expertise that an in-house marketing department would provide, but without the expense,’ he said. Ollie has retained his links with Athlone and lectured on marketing and business in the institute for three years. In 2006, Ollie was awarded the Marketing Institute of Ireland’s western region Marketing Person of the Year award. He received the award for his ‘outstanding contribution to marketing’.

Chris, who is originally from Skerries, Co Dublin, graduated from Athlone in 2002 with an honours degree in business. During his time at AIT, he was a member of the team that beat UUJ in the final of the Senior Cup in 2001. That same year, he was one of six AIT rugby players on the Irish Colleges team that defeated the Irish U-21s. The player who has been recognised by his country at sevens, colleges, and A levels, made his debut for Leinster against Llanelli Scarlets in the Magners League in 2007. While not enjoying a conventional business career, few would argue with Chris’ track record in the business of winning.

AIT 1970-2010

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AL001

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.

FETAC

Year 2 – Semester 1 Management Accounting, IT and Computer Applications, plus one module from Financial Accounting, Operations Management, Applied Economics

Year 2 – Semester 2 Marketing Management, Human Resource Management plus one module from Services Marketing, Analysis of Financial Institutions, E-business, Insurance and Banking, International Economics, French, German, German ab initio, 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.

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

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

Year 1 – Semester 2 Financial Accounting, Quantitative Techniques, Business Management, plus one module from Insurance and Banking, European Studies, German ab initio, French, German, Spanish ab initio.

COURSE DETAILs Duration 2 years Mode Full-time Level 6 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

260

125

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. See also progression chart on page 49.

Career Opportunities This course helps to prepare you for a career in areas such as general business, accounting, banking, insurance, marketing, management, administration, retail services and computing.

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AL003

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS IN OFFICE MANAGEMENT

This course will allow you to gain the knowledge and develop the skills required for positions such as secretaries, personal assistants, managers and office supervisors in industrial, commercial and service organisations. Holders of the qualification may reasonably expect promotion to junior management, upon gaining employment experience.

Year 2 – Semester 1

As a student you will obtain an understanding of the principles and practice of office management. You will also develop the skill-set and understanding required to provide the necessary foundation for a successful career in this area. Your understanding of the environmental factors which impact upon the success of a business will be enhanced. Latest developments in office technology and software applications are an integral element of the curriculum. It is possible to obtain Microsoft Office Specialist Expert Master accreditation as part of your studies. A text processing speed of at least 50 wpm is achieved over the duration of the course.

Text Processing*, IT and Computer Applications, Business Accounting, Human Resource Management,

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

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Computer Applications, Economics, Business Accounting.

Year 1 – Semester 2 Text Processing*, Learning to Learn, Computer Applications, Business Accounting, Business Management, plus one module from Health Services Administration, Insurance and Banking, French, German ab initio, German, Spanish ab initio.

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IT and Computer Applications, Business Accounting, Marketing, with an option of Health Services Administration.

Year 2 – Semester 2

COURSE DETAILs Duration 2 years

plus one module from

Mode

Insurance and Banking, French, German ab initio, German, Spanish ab initio.

Full-time

* Examinations in this area require a significant level of speed and accuracy in processing language-based information and, therefore, may prove difficult for a student with a specific learning difficulty e.g. dyslexia.

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 2009 Median

Final

205

120

Progression Holders of the qualification are eligible to apply to join a Bachelor of Business (Level 7) programme at AIT. See also progression chart on page 49.

Career Opportunities On successful completion of the course you are eligible to obtain secretarial and administrative employment in areas such as general business, banking, insurance, tourism and retail. AIT 1970-2010

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AL043

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS WITH MUSIC AND INSTRUMENT TECHNOLOGY Should you be interested in learning about sound engineering, instrument technology, acoustics and music production, as well as about the business side of the industry and business in general, this two-year course may be of interest to you. The modules are delivered through a combination of lectures, practical work, projects and continuous assessment. The course has a clear practical focus, with each of the three course themes (business, instrument technology and sound engineering) being covered by content appropriate to the music industry. On completion of the course, you will have assembled a portfolio of industry-related work. As a potential business and event technician, you will also have learned to assess the quality of music-based and related events.

Year 1 – Semester 2 Business Management, Music and Instrument Appreciation, Sound Engineering, Instrument Technology.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Marketing, Sound Engineering, Enterprise Project, Instrument Technology, Work Placement.

Project, Sound Engineering, Instrument Technology, Management Accounting.

Progression Holders of the qualification are eligible to apply to join a Bachelor of Business (Level 7) programme at AIT. A module in Sound Engineering is included in this programme as an elective. See also progression chart on page 49.

Leaving Certificate

Career Opportunities

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).

With the higher certificate you will be qualified to assume a junior position in the sound engineering or instrument technology or business sectors of the music and related industries. The following positions should be typical: sound technician (live and studio), event organiser, festival administrator, venue administrator, instrument maintenance technician, instrument repair technician, equipment maintenance technician. In addition to the above, the qualification provides a strong basis for a general business career and for progression to further studies.

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

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Computer Applications, ,Sound Engineering, Learning to Learn, Instrument Technology, Financial Accounting.

Duration 2 years

Year 2– Semester 2

Minimum Entry Requirements

FETAC

COURSE DETAILs

Mode Full-time Level 6 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

345

295

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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BACHELOR OF BUSINESS

This qualification builds upon the knowledge acquired and skills developed on the Higher Certificate in Business (Level 6) course. The programme aims to provide you with a deeper insight into the role and functions of a modern business enterprise and to prepare you for a variety of business-related career opportunities upon graduation. During your preparation for this degree, you will have the opportunity to study both high-level general and specialised knowledge related to how industrial and commercial organisations function and to those factors which affect the success of an enterprise. You will also develop a critical understanding of the key elements of effective business management. An important aspect of the course will be your own personal development, in preparation for the duties and responsibilities likely to arise in future employment.

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

Modules Semester 1 Managerial Finance, Business Information Systems, Business Law, plus one module (or two 5 ECTS modules) from Taxation, Retail Planning and Design, Logistics and the Supply Chain, Strategic Human Resource Management, Institutional Lending, Economic Policy & Analysis, Music Technology and Multimedia (5 ECTS), Irish Studies (5 ECTS).

Semester 2 Business Management and Enterprise Development, Managerial Finance, Company Law, plus one module (or two 5 ECTS modules) from International Marketing and Sales Management, Market Research and Analysis, Corporate Reporting, Computer Studies, Decision Making Techniques, Business French, Business German, Business Spanish, Music Technology and Multimedia (5 ECTS), Irish Studies (5 ECTS).

Progression Graduates are eligible to apply to join the one-year, add-on, Bachelor of Business (Honours) Level 8 programme at AIT. Depending on the modules which you have chosen, you may also be eligible to join the final year of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting at the institute. Alternatively, you may claim exemptions from one of the professional accountancy bodies and transfer to full-time accountancy studies.

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

See also progression chart on page 49.

Career Opportunities Holders of the qualification are prepared for employment at the appropriate level in a variety of business-related fields, such as management/administration, banking, finance, insurance and computing within the industrial, commercial and services sectors.

AIT 1970-2010

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AL044

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS IN REAL ESTATE (VALUATION AND MANAGEMENT) This programme is designed to meet the needs of the domestic and international property market by providing an articulate, competent graduate who will apply professional standards across a range of occupations, including property sales negotiator and property manager, in an ever-changing competitive market. It is also designed to provide sales negotiators for real estate firms. The need for this qualification is underpinned by a report from the Auctioneering and Real Estate Review Group established by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform recommending that estate agents ‘should have a relevant educational qualification in respect of the activities to be conducted in practice’. As a holder of this degree you will have acquired the advanced knowledge and developed the skills required for a successful business career. In your employment, you may be expected to engage in property management, to undertake property surveys (including measurement and valuation techniques), to examine, evaluate and report on the condition of buildings and to make judgments about performance, repair, health and safety. You will be qualified to specify and analyse a situation or problem using appropriate concepts and frameworks from valuation and other disciplines, demonstrate communication skills in the preparation of reports, and make presentations to different audiences in matters related to real estate management and valuation. In addition to the specialist aspects referred to above, the curriculum also covers the area of general business policy and practice. The programme has been developed jointly by AIT and the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV). The IPAV was established in 1970 and has in excess

of 850 practising members. It is a member of the Confederation of European Estate Agents (CEI).

COURSE DETAILs Duration 3 years

FETAC

Mode

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

Full-time

Modules

Level

Year 1 – Semester 1

Financial Accounting, Economics, Building Studies, Law, Learning to Learn.

Year 1 – Semester 2 Valuation, Marketing, Professional Practice and Communications.

Year 2 – Semester 1 The Regulatory Framework, Building Studies, Financial and Management Accounting, Marketing and Sales Management, Advertising and Property Promotion.

Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

Year 2 – Semester 2 Valuation, Planning and Development.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Valuation, Building Studies, Managerial Finance, Business Management and Enterprise Development.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Property Management Law, Property Management, Property Economics, Managerial Finance.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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What our graduates say…

A Clear Round MARK DURNING

Progression Students have the option of leaving after year 2 of the programme with a Higher Certificate in Business in Real Estate (Level 6). Graduates at this level will be entitled to membership of the IPAV after two years’ relevant work experience. See also progression chart on page 49.

Career Opportunities If you graduate with the higher certificate, you are expected to gain employment across a wide range of occupations within the real estate sector or in the general business arena. Examples include, work at a junior level in estate agencies, with property developers, in property management and valuation, in marketing and sales, and in administrative/management positions for public and private organisations. Graduates with the Bachelor degree are expected to find employment in local, provincial and national firms as sales negotiators and property managers. The following positions would be typical: finance, property development, planning, research and education in both national and multinational companies with large property interests. Opportunities may also exist to work in overseas property. A career in general business practice is also an appropriate expectation.

Professional Body Fees Students on this programme are required to register as student members of the IPAV. The annual fee is €400. This may also be paid in two instalments of €225 each, if preferred.

“To be honest when it came to the idea of me going to college I was not very keen on the idea at all. But I filled out the CAO form to keep my parents happy. I wanted to work in a show jumping yard full-time and work on a career as a rider, but as it turned out the nearer I got to the college year starting, the happier I was to go to college. There was no question in my mind which college to go to as Athlone Institute of Technology and Gurteen College together offered what I was looking for in the Higher Certificate in Business in Equine Studies. While studying for my degree I was given the opportunity to represent the college and my country in an international competition in Germany consisting of show jumping and dressage. If somebody was to tell me at the start of my first year in college I was going to have my own successful business doing equine dentistry, I would not have believed them; as far as I was concerned I was going to be a show jumper. A year after finishing my business degree I decided that equine dentistry was something I was interested in. So I went to America and studied in the American School of Equine Dentistry. I have not looked back since. Now I have my own business and am working with new people every day. I am earning good money even in the tough times we are in. Without my degree behind me, I would never have been able to promote my business to the highest level and have my accounts kept in order. The running of my business is to the highest standard and I learnt it all from the course I did. The time spent in AIT was some of the best times of my life and it gave me opportunities I would never have dreamed off. I met some amazing people and have made some great contacts from my time in AIT and Gurteen College.”

AIT 1970-2010

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BACHELOR OF BUSINESS (HONOURS)

If you hold a Bachelor of Business (Level 7) qualification, this honours degree programme provides you with the opportunity to gain a Level 8 qualification after one further year of full-time study. The curriculum includes advanced business knowledge and skills to prepare you for the challenges and opportunities likely to arise in future employment. The overall aim is to provide you with the opportunity to develop the analytical and high-level business skills required to deal effectively with rapid technological, organisational and environmental change in a modern business setting. You will develop a conceptual, systematic and mature approach to the identification, analysis and solution of problems in business/commercial/service organisations. You will also acquire the knowledge and critical understanding of the interrelationships between the different functions within business management.

Management Accounting and Decision Making, Customer Relationship Management, Managing People and Organisational Change, Business French, Business German, Business Spanish.

COURSE DETAILs

Progression

Duration

If you graduate with an honours-level degree (minimum 2.2) you are eligible to be considered for the Master of Business one-year, full-time programme at AIT. Depending upon your chosen modules at Level 8, you may also be eligible to apply for the one-year full-time Master of Arts in Accounting programme at the institute. Alternatively, you may decide to transfer to full-time professional accountancy studies, also available within the Business School, or to pursue postgraduate study at another institution. Full details of these programmes are contained in the AIT postgraduate prospectus.

Minimum Entry Requirements

See also progression chart on page 49.

Holders of a Bachelor of Business (Level 7) qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme.

Accreditation

Modules Semester 1 Strategic Analysis, Financial Management,, Strategic Marketing, plus one module from Integrated Marketing Communications, Valuations, Enterprise Database Systems, Financial Markets.

Semester 2 Strategic Implementation, Financial Management, Systems and Project Management, plus one module from

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

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 subjects Accounting, Economics and Business.

Career Opportunities As an honours business graduate, you may seek employment across a wide range of disciplines/functions, such as management, administration, accounting, banking, retail management, finance, marketing, human resource management, insurance and in computing/information technology. Rapid career progression may be expected on the basis of expertise, commitment and attitude.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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AL025

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS IN EQUINE STUDIES

This two-year course allows you to develop business and equine-related knowledge and skills in preparation for employment within a wide range of occupations. The equine sector is one of Ireland’s most successful industries within an international business arena, there are excellent job opportunities worldwide, enabling graduates to travel and enjoy challenging careers. The course is offered in association with Gurteen College, Ballingarry, Roscrea, Co Tipperary [www.gurteencollege.ie]. Studying on this higher certificate will provide you with knowledge of those disciplines which form the basis for a successful career in the business and equine sectors. You will be expected to understand the factors which make an equine or a general business organisation successful. You will develop the knowledge and learn the skills required for a career in the wider business sectors. The qualification also provides the necessary foundation for progression to an appropriate Bachelor degree (Level 7), as indicated below. Emphasis is placed on both the theoretical and practical elements of the curriculum throughout the course. During both years, the linking of the business and equine elements involves attendance at AIT and Gurteen College.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Equine Business Administration, Learning to Learn, Equine Anatomy and Physiology, Equine Facilities Management, Principles of Equitation, Horsemastership.

Year 1 – Semester 2

COURSE DETAILs Duration

Computer Applications, Economics, Equine Reproduction, Principals of Equine Health and Disease, Horsemastership, Principals of Equitation, Work Placement.

2 years

A supervised work experience placement of 12 weeks’ duration must be completed in an approved setting.

Full-time

Year 2 – Semester 1 Marketing, Financial Accounting, Equitation and Equine Behaviour, Equine Nutrition, Applied Science.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Human Resource Management, Management Accounting, Applied Science, Equitation and Equine Behaviour, The Irish Equine Industry

Progression As a holder of this qualification you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Business in Equine Studies (Level 7) one-year, add-on programme at AIT.

Mode

Level 6 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

275 AQA

See also progression chart on page 49.

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.

Career Opportunities Job opportunities may include employment in equine administration, yard and stud farm management, in the marketing of horses/ equine-related products, in transportation, in riding centres, in competition yards, and in equine-based centres/facilities within the recreation, leisure and tourism sectors, as well as in areas of general business. AIT 1970-2010

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BACHELOR OF BUSINESS IN EQUINE STUDIES

This one-year, add-on Bachelor degree will enable you to demonstrate specialised knowledge related to general business and the equine industry. You will learn how to use diagnostic skills to identify problems of a business or equine nature, and acquire the capacity to provide informed, innovative, ethical solutions to such problems. The course provides the opportunity for a high-level knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of systematic coaching and instruction. From the business angle, you will learn to assess success and failure and to analyse the impact of key external and internal factors on organisational progress. You will be expected to demonstrate a critical understanding of the behavioural aspects of individual and group interaction. This course will also develop your communication and teamworking skills, which will aid your future career development and progress. Should you so choose, this degree will give you the necessary background and expertise to pursue further academic studies in related disciplines.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Business in Equine Studies (Level 6) or an approved equivalent qualification.

Modules Semester 1 International Marketing and Sales Management, Enterprise Development and Management, Equine Managerial Finance, Equine Exercise Science, Equestrian Competition,

Semester 2 Principles of Teaching Equitation, International Marketing and Sales Management, Enterprise Development and Management, Equine Managerial Finance, Advanced Equine Health and Disease, Equine Sports Coaching, Equestrian Competition, Equine Yard Management & Event Organisation.

Progression As a graduate you may be eligible to apply for a place on an appropriate Bachelor degree (Level 7/8) programme.

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

See also progression chart on page 49.

Career Opportunities Job opportunities are varied and include, at the appropriate level, employment in equine administration/management, yard and stud farm management, equine-related coaching, marketing of horses/equine-related products, employment in riding centres and competition yards, and in equine-based centres/facilities as well as in general business.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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BACHELOR OF BUSINESS IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

This programme, at third-year level, provides eU and other overseas students with a range of business and related knowledge and skills required for successful careers in international business management. The curriculum also helps the student to develop an understanding of Irish history, culture and traditions, as well as providing an insight into the political and administrative structures of the country. students develop both generic and specialised knowledge related to how industrial and commercial organisations function and to those environmental factors which impact upon the success of an enterprise. a critical understanding of the key factors involved in effective business management, and the development of attitudes and expertise required in today’s challenging business environment are amongst the benefits to be gained from the programme. You will also improve your competence in spoken and written english.

Minimum Entry Requirements a higher Certificate in Business or an approved equivalent Level 6 qualification is required. all applicants must be recommended by their parent institution, under the following headings: academic ability, maturity, capacity to integrate, character and integrity, command of spoken and written english, motivation in applying for the course.

Modules Semester 1 Managerial Finance, Business Management and enterprise Development, Irish studies 1 – Irish heritage plus one module from Business Information systems, Market Research and analysis, Retail planning and Design, Logistics and the supply Chain, Computer studies, Taxation, economic policy & analysis

COURSE dETAIls DuRATION 1 year MODE

Semester 2

Full-time

International Marketing and sales Management, Managerial Finance, Irish studies 2 – Modern Ireland,

LEVEL

plus one module from

Corporate Reporting, strategic human Resource Management, Decision Making Techniques, Business english, Business French, Business German, Business spanish,

APPLICATION TO admissions office, aIT

Progression as a graduate, you are eligible to apply to join the one-year, add-on Bachelor of Business (honours) Level 8 programme at aIT. See also progression chart on page 49.

Career Opportunities on successful completion of this degree programme, you are prepared for employment in a wide range of business areas such as management, administration, finance, marketing, sales, and information technology.

AIT 1970-2010

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AL050

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS (HONOURS) ab initio

This honours degree will enable you to develop the conceptual framework, advanced knowledge and practical skills appropriate for careers in different functional areas of business across today’s challenging and changing commercial environment. Technological, organisational and environmental progress is regarded as the norm in a modern business setting. The curriculum has been designed to develop your ability to cultivate the analytical and advanced business skills required to deal effectively with opportunities and problems likely to be encountered in the workplace. You will learn how to develop a systematic and enlightened approach to the identification, analysis and solution of problems in different types of business organisation. You will study and gain a critical understanding of the interrelationships between the different functions within business management. Expertise in computing and computer applications for business will also be enhanced. Students are also prepared to undertake responsibilities, in both a national and an international business context, and to develop expertise in business research. This Level 8 programme will also allow for possible progression to an appropriate postgraduate qualification, such as the Master of Business at the institute.

FETAC FETAC applicants to this programme must hold one of the following awards: Administration (BBSAX), Business Studies (BBSXX), Marketing (BMXXX), Bilingual Secretarial Studies (BBSBS) or Business and Secretarial Studies (BBSSX). They are also required to have the module Statistics (B20029) included in their award and have obtained distinctions in three modules.

Modules

Duration 4 years Mode Full-time

Year 1 – Semester 1 Financial Accounting, Business Management, Quantitative Techniques, Computer Applications, Learning to Learn.

Level 8

Year 1 – Semester 2 Economics, Financial Accounting, Marketing, plus one module from Insurance and Banking, European Studies, French, German ab initio, German, Spanish ab initio.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Human Resource Management, IT & Computer Applications,

Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

320

230

plus one module from

Minimum Entry Requirements

Applied Economics, Insurance and Banking, Operations Management, Financial Accounting, Services Marketing.

Leaving Certificate

Year 2 – Semester 2

Management Accounting, Marketing Management,

COURSE DETAILs

plus one module from International Economics, Analysis of Financial Institutions, E-business, French, German ab initio, German, Spanish ab initio.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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Year 3 – Semester 1

Year 4 – Semester 2

Accreditation

Managerial Finance, Business Information Systems, Business Law,

Financial Management, Strategic Marketing,

plus one module from

Management Accounting and Decision Making, Customer Relationship Management, Managing People and Organisational Change, Strategic Implementation, Business French, Business German, Business Spanish.

Graduates of this programme are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education programme at Irish universities, to be recognised to teach the subjects Accounting, Economics and Business.

Market Research and Analysis, Taxation, Retail Planning and Design, Logistics and the Supply Chain, Computer Studies.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Business Management and Enterprise Development, Managerial Finance, Company Law, plus one module from International Marketing and Sales Management, Corporate Reporting, Decision Making Techniques, Strategic Human Resource Management, Economic Policy & Analysis, Business French, Business German, Business Spanish.

Year 4 – Semester 1 Financial Management, Systems and Project Management, Strategic Analysis, plus one module from Integrated Marketing Communications, Enterprise Database Systems, Financial Markets.

plus one module from

Progression Several postgraduate opportunities are open to you at AIT. Should you obtain an honours-level degree (minimum grade 2.2) you are eligible to apply for the one-year, full-time Master of Business programme at the institute. You may decide to transfer to full-time professional accountancy studies, also offered by the Business School. A Master’s degree by research represents another potential opportunity for suitability qualified graduates. Alternatively, you may pursue postgraduate studies at another institution. Full details of relevant AIT postgraduate programmes are contained in the postgraduate prospectus.

Career Opportunities As an honours business graduate, you can expect to obtain employment at the appropriate level across a wide range of business areas, including management, administration, accounting, banking, retail management, finance, marketing, human resource management, insurance, and computing/information technology. Rapid career progression may be expected on the basis of expertise, commitment and attitude.

See also progression chart on page 49.

AIT 1970-2010

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AL057

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS AND LAW (HONOURS)

With increasing regulation of the business world, there is a constant demand for graduates who hold the advanced knowledge and skills to understand and pursue domestic and international commercial business transactions. Furthermore, the synergies that exist between business and law are becoming increasingly apparent in areas of work such as mergers and acquisitions. The integration of key roles within these functional areas requires the interdisciplinary knowledge and related skills that was previously the domain of two distinct professions. This four-year honours degree programme reflects these workplace developments and will provide you with an in-depth critical understanding of the complementary areas of business and law. It will give you the conceptual framework, knowledge and skills to evaluate a complex and changing business environment. The degree will also enable students to analyse the respective importance of, and the interrelationship between, the different disciplines and functions represented in the modern business, and to develop critical understanding of the legal function and its importance in a modern business environment/legal context.

You will be equipped with a critical understanding of management and organisational behaviour specific to the business setting, and develop a critical awareness of marketing and its role in effectively supporting business development and enhancement The degree will also enhance studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; effective communication skills, in both a business and a legal context, and will develop further knowledge and skills in computing theory and applications.

COURSE DETAILs Duration 4 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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Modules

Year 4 – Semester 1

Career Opportunities

Year 1 – Semester 1

Land Law, Equity Law, Ethics and Corporate Responsibility, Financial Markets,

As a graduate you are eligible to pursue a career as a solicitor by undertaking the exams of the Law Society of Ireland. Alternatively, a variety of career options exist in the areas of general business, banking, taxation, insurance, teaching or journalism. The analytical skills and conceptual dimension of the programme will serve to produce graduates with the capacity for innovation and an entrepreneurial approach to the problems and opportunities likely to be experienced in subsequent careers.

Irish Legal System, Learning to Learn, Business Management, Financial Accounting.

with an option of Integrated Marketing and Communications.

Year 1 – Semester 2

Year 4 – Semester 2

Constitutional Law, Economics, Information Technology and Computer Applications.

Systems and Project Management, Strategic Management,

Year 2 – Semester 1

plus one module from

Employment Law, Contract Law, Quantitative Techniques,

Managing People And Organisational Change, Management Accounting and Decision Making, Customer Relationship Management.

plus one module from Financial Accounting, Services Marketing, Applied Economics.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Tort Law, Human Resource Management, plus one module from E-business, International Economics.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Commercial Law, Company Law, Managerial Finance.

Year 3 – Semester 2 European Union Law, Business Management and Enterprise Development, Revenue Law.

Progression An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate studies and research leading to Masters (Level 9) qualifications. Graduates from this programme will be eligible to apply for the Master’s degree in Business at AIT. You will also be exempted from the preliminary examination of the Law Society of Ireland and will be well placed to attempt Part 1 of the Final Examination of the Law Society should you wish to progress to become qualified as a solicitor. See also progression chart on page 49.

AIT 1970-2010

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HIGHER DIPLOMA IN BUSINESS

This higher diploma programme provides formal education and training in business disciplines for graduates with a nonbusiness background. Holders of the qualification will normally be expected to enter employment with a strong business studies background, which will complement the qualification(s) already acquired. The course emphasises the importance of practical/project work across all modules. The course will provide you with the conceptual framework, knowledge and skills which will enable you to understand a complex and changing business environment. It will also give you an understanding of the respective importance and the interrelationship between the different disciplines and functions represented in the modern business, with a focus on enterprise development and project management. You will gain an enhanced understanding of the finance function and its importance in a modern business environment; and of marketing and its role in effectively supporting business development. The modules on management and organisational behaviour will build on your prior qualification(s) and will focus on business settings.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Modules Semester 1 Management, Strategy and Change, Economics and the Business Environment, Financial Statement Analysis, Marketing Management.

Semester 2

COURSE DETAILs Duration

Human Resource Management, Enterprise Development and Project Management, Business Law, Business Applications.

1 year

Progression

Full-time

As a graduate of this Level 8 programme, you are eligible to be considered for the Master of Business one-year, full-time programme at AIT. Alternatively, you may decide to pursue postgraduate study at another institution. Full details of postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 49.

Mode

Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Career Opportunities As a graduate of this programme, you will have a wide range of skills and will be well suited to gain employment across a broad range of industries building on your original qualification(s), but now enhanced with this business qualification.

A Bachelor degree (Level 7) or a Bachelor degree (honours, Level 8) in any nonbusiness discipline is required.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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What our graduates say…

Back of the Net JAMES KAVANAGH

I was a student at AIT between 2003 and 2007, where I studied for an honours degree in business. I chose AIT for my third level education for a number of reasons. They had a wide range of courses in which I had an interest and, from what I had heard from friends, it was a great college with a friendly atmosphere. The location suited me as I wanted to move out of home to gain experience of living on my own and with other students. I like AIT because everything in the college is easily accessible; from lecturers to sports clubs, student advice and support. All of the staff are friendly and always willing to help students. Athlone town itself is only half-a-mile from the college and there are plenty of things to do in it. There was the cinema, swimming pool and leisure complex, astro-turf pitches and loads of entertaining pubs! I really enjoyed Athlone’s nightlife with plenty of students and a mix of people from the local area; there was always plenty of craic to be had. Students were friendly and always open to making new friends, and I am still very much in touch with friends I made in AIT. The course I chose to study was the Bachelor of Business ab initio four-year honours degree. This course was challenging with a range of individual and group projects which added variety to my studies, as well as being enjoyable to work alongside students in my class. During my time in AIT, I also played football with Kildare at u21 and senior level. This cut down on my study time each week, but by attending lectures and from support I received from sports coordinators, lecturers and fellow students, I was able maintain high grades and graduate with an honours degree. I enjoyed plenty of Sigerson battles on the sports ground of AIT. I have recently been attested as a member of An Garda Síochána and represent Kildare at senior inter-county football.

AIT 1970-2010

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ACCOUNTING AND BUSINESS COMPUTING

Accounting is the study of how organisations manage their financial strategy, including their income and expenditure, assets and liabilities, over time. Accountants are involved in a wide variety of activities and are likely to be planners and decision makers at the highest level in organisations. Their work includes preparing financial reports, developing strategies for mergers and acquisitions and implementing tax strategies, as well as general management responsibilities. At its core, accounting is about understanding how organisations work, what drives them and what makes a profit. Such knowledge and skills can assist you in developing an enjoyable and rewarding career. Accountants typically work in public practice with accountancy firms, in private practice for themselves, in the public service and in industry. AIT has enjoyed an excellent reputation for the quality of its accountancy programmes over many years. Several past students have obtained outstanding results in the professional accountancy examinations, including one learner who obtained a first place in the world in one of her exams! Full details of these programmes are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. Programme opportunities from accounting technician level to honours degree standard, as well as an MA in Accounting, are offered by the Business School. Despite the global and domestic economic downturn, the demand for highly skilled financial professionals persists. That’s according to the most recent National Skills Bulletin, which highlights a skills shortage for professionals such as chartered and certified accountants with expertise in project and system accounting, compliance experts, risk experts, etc. They say that ‘changes in the regulatory environment are expected to create demand for high level, up-to-date accounting skills (compliance, financial reporting, financial management) and risk management expertise. In addition, strong demand is expected to continue for experts in actuarial science and

quantitative finance. These skills are expected to be critical in driving employment growth in the financial services industry in the recovery.’ Information and communications technology (ICT) is also a strategically important function for organisations today. The global personal computer industry is now estimated to be worth in the region of €200 billion annually. Current challenges for the industry include improving mobility, maintenance, and, at a national level, increasing access to broadband. AIT’s degrees in business computing are highly regarded for their combination of business and IT modules. You learn not just about the technical aspects, such as programming and software, but also about the broader areas of business-related knowledge and skills in areas such as economics and the business environment, management and enterprise development. According to the most recent National Skills Bulletin, there is still a strong demand for individuals who ‘not only have the advanced IT skills to install systems, but who can also customise and adapt those systems to a business’s individual needs’. In particular, they say, there is a shortage of experienced computer systems managers and IT professionals with business knowledge and managerial skills.

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The report also points to an increase in the demand for hybrid technologists, such as business and IT, as interdisciplinary activities expand in importance.

Department of Accounting and Business Computing Progression Chart Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Why Choose Accounting and Business Computing at AIT?

Bachelor of Bachelor of Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Arts (Hons) Business in Accounting in Accounting (Hons) in (Level 8) and Law Applied (Level 8) Accounting 3 years (Level 8) 4 years ab initio + 1 year ab initio

n AIT accountancy graduates receive

a large number of exemptions from professional examinations. n Accountancy students at AIT

consistently score top marks in international professional body examinations. n Graduates from our honours degrees

experience which enriches their teaching skills and competencies. n Student tutors and mentors are on

hand to provide extra support outside the lecture theatre.

+ 1 year

Bachelor of Science in Business Computing (Level 7) 3 years

ab initio Accounting Technicians Ireland Technician Course (Level 6) 2 years START HERE

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1 year

Year 2

n Our business computing programmes

n Lecturers have extensive industry

Higher Diploma in Computing (Level 8)

part-time

are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education course. are designed specifically for a career in business IT, where the greatest number of employment opportunities exist.

Bachelor of Science in Business Computing (Hons) (Level 8)

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aL023

ACCOUNTING TECHNICIANS IRELAND TECHNICIAN COURSE

accounting and information systems are vital to the success of every organisation. The accountantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job is to provide information, usually financial, to enable management solve problems and make informed decisions. While accounting technicians are not accountants, many qualified technicians use their qualification as a stepping-stone towards full professional status. as an accounting technician, you will work with qualified accountants in business, industry, private practice and the public sector.

Mature Applicants

This two-year qualification prepares you for the examinations of accounting Technicians Ireland. Upon qualification, you will have learned how to prepare financial statements and financial reports, as well as other management information. You will have covered how to compute tax liabilities for companies and individuals, set up and manage systems for budgets, stock control, cost accounting, cash reconciliation, etc. You will be able to establish and manage credit control procedures and to use computers effectively in a business environment.

year 2

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certifi cate Leaving Certificate with Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects, or four Grade D3 results of which at least two are on higher-level papers. passes must be obtained in english and at least one of the subjects Mathematics or accountancy.

If you are over 21 years of age and wish to apply for this programme based on the presentation of alternative documentation, you must have relevant work experience and a letter of reference from your employer.

Modules year 1 accounting, Management accounting, Business Management and Information Technology, Taxation (RoI).

accounting, Information Technology in Business, Company Law, Costing and Budgeting, Tas Books.

COURSE dETAIls DuRATION 2 years MODE Full-time LEVEL 6

Progression holders of this qualification are eligible to join the second year of the three-year honours Bachelor of arts (honours) in accounting programme at aIT.

APPLICATION TO

See progression chart on page 69.

POINTS 2009

Career Opportunities

Median

Final

students who have successfully completed this course have shown that they are able to offer competent accounting support to business managers in different areas of the financial world.

240

aQa

Cao

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AL051

BACHELOR OF ARTS (HONOURS) IN ACCOUNTING

This three-year honours Bachelor degree in accounting will provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the fundamental theories, concepts, principles and practices essential for a rewarding career in professional accountancy. You will acquire expertise in the areas of accountancy, finance, management, information technology and general business. You will develop a critical understanding of the fundamental and advanced concepts, principles, methods and techniques of accounting, auditing and regulation. Your skills of analysis, interpretation and judgement will be enhanced, as will your capacity to apply a conceptual understanding to practical business decision-making situations, to problem solving and to the provision of effective information for financial and management accounting purposes. Concepts and applications of law in modern business practice are also a key element of this curriculum, as is the ethical underpinnings of the accounting profession. Fundamentals of economics, business mathematics and financial theory form a key part of the modules in finance. You will be taught about the nature, significance and inter-relationship of economic and financial environments. The practice of scientific analysis and financial decision-making techniques is a central component of the programme. You will also become familiar with the mechanisms of the financial system and the evaluative methods involved, as well as developing an understanding of the core areas of business taxation. Organisational and strategic management are critical areas of knowledge for any business manager. You will learn how to apply accepted theories to modern business management situations. The development of effective communication skills forms an essential part of the course, as does the study of fundamentals and principles of business law.

It is important that you understand the theoretical concepts and methodology of information technology, systems analysis, and design and project management. You will gain a practical knowledge of software packages and IT resources commonly used by accounting and finance professionals. The growing area of e-business is also covered in the programme. At a general level, the degree will give you the knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes necessary for a successful career in today’s challenging business environment. You will learn how commercial and industrial organisations function, the environmental factors that effect an organisation and the contribution of the accounting/finance professional to an organisation’s success.

FETAC FETAC applicants to this programme must hold one of the following awards: Administration (BBSAX) or Business Studies (BBSXX).

COURSE DETAILs Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

325

235

They are also required to have distinctions in the following three modules as part of their award: Statistics (B20029), Business Law (B20131) and Bookkeeping – Manual & Computerised (B20137).

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Business Law, Economics, Financial Accounting, Learning to Learn, Quantitative Techniques.

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What our graduates say…

Discovering Where Your Passion Lies JAMES COUGHLAN

Year 1 – Semester 2 Management Accounting, Economics, Corporate Law, Quantitative Techniques, IT and Computer Applications.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Corporate Law, Financial Management, Organisational Management, Systems Development and E-commerce.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Organisational Management, Taxation

Year 3 – Semester 1 Corporate Reporting, Management Accounting, Financial Management, Project Management.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Strategic Management, Taxation, Auditing and Systems Review.

Progression An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate studies and research leading to Master’s (Level 9) qualifications. As a Level 8 graduate you will be eligible (subject to examination results) to apply for the MA in Accounting programme which is delivered over one full year at AIT. Alternatively, you may choose to study towards membership of one of the professional accountancy bodies. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. Alternatively, you may choose to pursue postgraduate studies at another institution. See also progression chart on page 69.

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

Career Opportunities As a graduate, you are eligible for employment at a high level in the areas of financial and management accountancy, as well as in general business.

“When I was filling out my CAO form in 2000, I really had very little idea of what I wanted to do. I knew that my interests lay in the business sector and particularly in the financial side of things, but that was as far as I could get. I had no idea what course I should pursue or where I should go to do it. I attended a careers day in AIT and from the moment I arrived on campus that day, I really felt comfortable in the surroundings and found the staff extremely friendly and welcoming. Having decided upon my future location I then found myself torn between a business studies course or accounting. I chose the business course with the intention of keeping my options open, however, it soon became apparent to me that it was the accounting area I should have pursued as this was where my passion lay. I left the course, to my parents’ dismay, but following a year of hard labour in the construction industry, I returned to do the Accounting Technicians Ireland technician course run by AIT. Following successful completion of this course, I proceeded to second year of the BA (Hons) in Accounting degree. Two tough but very enjoyable years later I graduated from this course. Today I am working as a trainee accountant in the SME Accounts Department of Russell Brennan Keane in Athlone. I work mainly on individual client cases, meeting clients from all types of industries. We are currently in the top ten accountancy firms in Ireland and offer various services ranging from IT to HR solutions with the aim of total customer satisfaction. The four years I spent studying in AIT has equipped me with a strong base for future studies and career developments. I have fantastic memories of my time in AIT, from an academic, sporting and social perspective. The most amazing thing I found about AIT is the fact that not only have I made lifelong friends with fellow students, but I have also made lifelong friends with members of staff. The assistance and encouragement offered to me during my stay there will certainly stay with me for life.”

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AL058

BACHELOR OF ARTS (HONOURS) IN ACCOUNTING AND LAW

The accounting and legal professions are increasingly involved in multidisciplinary practices. Accountants need an understanding of the law, while commercial lawyers often operate in accounting and financial environments. The integration of key roles within these functional areas requires the interdisciplinary knowledge and related skills that was previously the domain of two distinct professions. This four-year honours degree programme reflects these workplace developments and will provide you with an in-depth critical understanding of the complementary areas of accounting and law. You will gain a thorough grounding in the fundamental theories, concepts, principles and practices essential to the pursuit of a fulfilling and rewarding career in the area of accounting and/or the legal profession. Furthermore, the degree also offers the opportunity of pursuing a career in the wider range of business fields. The BA (Hons) in Accounting and Law will provide you with the knowledge and skills which will enable you to evaluate a complex and changing business environment. It will also develop the appropriate knowledge and understanding of the fundamental and advanced concepts, principles methods, and techniques of accounting, auditing, taxation and legal regulation. Furthermore, it equips students with the knowledge of the concepts and applications of law in modern business and accounting practices. The degree will enhance students’ effective communication skills, in both a business and a legal context, and will develop further knowledge and skills in computing theory and applications.

COURSE DETAILs Duration

FETAC

4 years

FETAC applicants to this programme must hold one of the following awards: Administration (BBSAX) or Business Studies (BBSXX). They are also required to have obtained distinctions in three modules.

Mode

Modules

Level

Year 1 – Semester 1 Irish Legal System, Business Management, Financial Accounting, Learning to Learn.

Full-time

Year 1 – Semester 2

Application to

Constitutional Law, Economics, Information Technology and Computer Applications.

CAO

Year 2 – Semester 1 Employment Law, Contract Law, Management Accounting, Quantitative Techniques.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Tort Law, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting.

Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

Year 3 – Semester 1 Commercial Law, Company Law, Corporate Reporting, Financial Management.

Year 3 – Semester 2 European Union Law, Revenue Law, Taxation.

Year 4 – Semester 1 Land Law, Equity Law, Ethics and Corporate Responsibility, Financial Markets.

Year 4 – Semester 2 Strategic Management, Systems and Project Management, Audit and Systems Reviews. AIT 1970-2010

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What our graduates say…

Accounting – Launching Pad to an Interesting Career ALAN REYNOLDS

Progression An honours degree is an effective basis for postgraduate studies and research leading to Masters (Level 9) qualifications. Graduates from this programme will be eligible to apply for the Master’s degree in Accounting at AIT. A progression to study for a qualification with the professional accounting bodies is another avenue that they can pursue. You will also be exempted from the preliminary examination of the Law Society of Ireland and will be well placed to attempt Part 1 of the Final Examination of the Law Society should you wish to progress to become qualified as a solicitor.

Alan Reynolds graduated with an honours degree in accounting and finance from AIT. After taking a break from studying for a number of years, he decided to pursue the ACCA qualification. He outlines his career and what having an accounting qualification has meant:

Career Opportunities

“I commenced my career in a small to medium sized practice, and having spent a year there, decided I would prefer to pursue a career in the financial services industry. I spent three years with a leading South African asset management company, working in both their Dublin and Cape Town offices which gave me superb experience in terms of fund administration and accounting operations.

As a graduate you are eligible for employment at a high level in the areas of accounting. Possible careers that may be pursued include: banking, taxation, insurance, teaching or journalism. You may also pursue a career as a solicitor following on from success in the examinations of the Law Society of Ireland. The analytical skills and conceptual dimension of the programme will serve to produce graduates with the capacity for evaluation, synthesis and problem solving at a high level.

At that stage of my career, I decided I wanted to concentrate solely on financial reporting. I then joined J.P. Morgan Bank Ireland as a financial reporting associate and have been promoted in successive years to my current position of assistant manager in the financial and regulatory reporting team. Working with J.P. Morgan, in a financial reporting team with vast industry and technical knowledge, I have gained excellent experience across an array of international clients, legal structures and accounting conventions, engaging with our many stakeholders in delivering a best in class service to our clients.”

See also progression chart on page 87.

Employment opportunities occur both in the public and private sector e.g. with civil engineering contractors, civil/structural engineering consultants, national and local government agencies in areas including water supply, road/bridge design and maintenance, building regulations compliance and assessment of engineering material by laboratory analysis.

HIGHWAY/TRAFFIC ENGINEERING ELECTIVES Traffic Engineering & Hydraulics and Road Design & Project.

Semester 2 Mathematics, Structural Analysis & Design, Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Materials,

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

Career Opportunities

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AL026

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

Civil engineering is the oldest branch of engineering and deals with the design, construction and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment, including works such as bridges, roads, canals, dams and buildings. This three-year degree will develop your theoretical and practical knowledge of civil engineering. It will give you a thorough knowledge of the materials involved, and the standards required, in attaining structures of high quality in terms of design specification and construction.

Year 3 Mathematics, Structural Analysis & Design, Geotechnical Engineering, Costing & Engineering Management, Engineering Materials, plus one of the following elective options

CIVIL ENGINEERING ELECTIVES Environmental Engineering & Hydraulics, and Project and CAD or

HIGHWAY/TRAFFIC ENGINEERING ELECTIVES Traffic Engineering & Hydraulics and Road Design & Project.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 3 years Mode Full-time

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate

Progression

Level

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).

As a graduate of this programme you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor Of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Engineering, provided you have an overall Merit 2 (50-59%) or higher and achieve at least 70% in the mathematics module or a pass in bridging Mathematics (offered to students by AIT). Alternatively, you may wish to apply for admission to Year 2 of a three-year degree programme or to Year 3 of a four-year honours degree (Level 8) course in civil engineering at other third-level institutions.

Modules

CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

See also progression chart on page 87.

Career Opportunities

Year 1 Mathematics, Construction Technology & CAD, Engineering Science & Materials, Engineering Survey, Structural Mechanics, Communications and Computer Applications.

Year 2 Mathematics, Engineering Materials, Surveying, Soil Mechanics & Technology, Structural Engineering, Fluid Mechanics, Project and CAD, Construction Management.

Application to

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BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING (HONOURS) IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

This add-on honours degree is designed to produce high quality civil engineers with good analytical and numerate skills balanced with practical understanding and know-how. The programme will equip you with the skill set necessary to apply scientific methods, reasoning and analysis to provide solutions to civil engineering problems. During the two years you will learn the design methods, procedures and codes used in the design of buildings, roads and related infrastructure. Specifically, you will understand the principles of road design and the basic principles of traffic engineering, particularly traffic survey work and forecasting. You will be taught the application of computer models in civil engineering, and the fundamentals of engineering mathematics theory and its applications in resolving engineering problems. Analytical frameworks and procedures used in solving structural engineering problems are also taught. The design of water supply and sewerage systems are an important part of a civil engineer’s work and on this programme you will learn the fundamental equations and principles of hydraulics used in this area. You will also learn about rock and soil properties and their implication for engineering design, as well as general principles of foundation design and construction.

Minimum Entry Requirements Applicants must have achieved an overall Merit 2 (50-59%) or higher in the Bachelor of Engineering (Level 7) in Civil Engineering or equivalent. They must also have obtained 70% or higher in ordinary degree level Mathematics module or a pass in Bridging Mathematics to bring the student to the requisite standard. Bridging Mathematics is offered to students by AIT.

Modules

COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years Mode

Year 1 – Semester 1

Full-time

Engineering Mathematics, Hydraulics, Structural Analysis, Structural Design, Engineering Geology and Soil Mechanics, Mechanics of Solids.

Level 8

Year 1 – Semester 2 Engineering Mathematics, Hydraulics, Structural Analysis, Structural Design, Traffic Engineering, Engineer in Society.

Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Year 2 – Semester 1 Industrial Placement, Research Methodology, Scheme Design, Mechanics of Solids, Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Management.

Year 2 – Semester Project, Scheme Design, Environmental Engineering, Foundation Engineering, Numerical Methods, Highway Design.

Progression This honours Bachelor’s degree is an effective basis for postgraduate study and research leading to a Master’s (Level 9) qualification. Full details of postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus. See also progression chart on page 87.

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Student profile…

Innovation Award Finalist KARL SATCHWELL

Accreditation It is envisaged that graduates from this course will possess a qualification that will ultimately be approved by Engineers Ireland as meeting the required educational standard for the title Chartered Engineer. Following successful completion of an approved engineering degree, graduates commence initial professional development of not less than four years’ duration which involves the achievement of the competencies necessary to apply engineering principles to the solution of engineering problems. Engineers Ireland award the title of Chartered Engineer following the successful completion of the initial professional development

Career Opportunities As a graduate of this honours degree you can expect to find employment in a wide range of sectors. Potential job opportunities include consulting engineers (work may include road and junction design, traffic assessment, analysis and design of engineering structures), building and civil engineering contractors (work may include managing various work packages, ultimately leading to the overall management of major projects such as bridges and water schemes), local authorities (work may include design and construction of roads and water projects), government departments (work may include assessing road infrastructure projects for funding) and semi-state bodies (work may include the design and management of construction projects for companies such as the ESB).

Third year civil engineering student, Karl Satchwell, from Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co Roscommon, was a runner-up in Engineers Ireland’s Innovative Student of the Year Award (Level 7) for 2009. Karl’s research which explored using rubber from truck and car tyres to make concrete, instead of sand, offers considerable potential for recycling the hundreds of millions of waste tyres which are disposed each year. It also has potential for creating a new form of concrete which is better able to withstand stress than plain concrete. According to Karl, “I replaced the fine aggregate or sand with crumb rubber, which is derived from truck and car tyres, at different replacement percentages. I tested the concrete for compressive stress, workability, its thermal performances and its density. The compressive stress was reduced as the crumb rubber content increased, but it illustrated an extraordinary tough and ductile behaviour in comparison to plain concrete, even though it failed at a lesser stress. “My findings illustrated that crumb rubber concrete doesn’t show brittle behaviour whereas plain concrete does. This is due to the ability of rubber to absorb energy when a force is applied. This tells us that this new concrete can absorb most forms of energy and may be used in areas where high energy seismic waves are released from earthquakes. Using this new form of concrete may leave structures stable, thus saving lives or insure the safety of structures from trains or other locomotives passing buildings as shaking energy is released. Also when this concrete fails, it doesn’t do so immediately but more gradually, while failing shatter-free unlike plain concrete. This suggests that this type of concrete could be used as highway barriers where shatter-free properties are a must,” Karl said. His research also proved that crumb rubber concrete exhibits superior thermal performance, which would have many commercial uses. It may also have use as material for sound barriers, due to its noise reduction properties. There are also environmental benefits to crumb rubber concrete in reducing the stock piles of waste rubber, which is a growing global problem. Having successfully passed his exams with a distinction, Karl progressed to the BEng (Honours) in Civil Engineering at AIT. This two-year programme covers topics ranging from infrastructure design, traffic engineering, water supply, hydraulics, as well as rock and soil properties, amongst others. Prior to completing his Level 7 qualification, Karl undertook a Higher Certificate in Civil Engineering at AIT, and attended secondary school at Castlerea Community School.

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AL015

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN SCIENCE IN CONSTRUCTION STUDIES

This is a broadly based course which emphasises the principles of construction and has a strong bias towards construction practice. It will equip you with practical skills and an in-depth knowledge of construction and maintenance, including the adaptation/ refurbishment of existing facilities, buildings and land, in order to create a more pleasant living and working environment. The course is delivered through lectures and practicals, split approximately 60:40. You will be involved in practical work in the computing, construction science and AutoCAD laboratories, and also outdoor practicals in surveying.

Modules Year 1 Mathematics, Construction Technology & CAD, Building Science & Structures, Surveying & Setting Out, Construction Materials, Measurement Costing, Communications & Computer Applications.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1 Building Construction &Technology, Planning and Development, ,Measurement & Costing & Construction Management, Surveying and Setting Out, Structural Design and Detailing, Sustainable Building Services Technology.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 2 Building Construction &Technology, Planning and Development, Measurement & Costing & Construction Management, Surveying and Setting Out, Structural Design and Detailing, Sustainable Building Services Technology.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years Mode Full-time

Progression

Level

As a graduate from the Higher Certificate in Science in Construction Studies programme you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Construction (Level 7). A graduate may also apply to join year one of the BSc (Hons) in Construction Technology and Management

See also progression chart on page 87.

Points 2009

Career Opportunities

Median

Final

The general nature of the course helps to ensure a wide range of job opportunities, including employment with building contractors, architects, quantity surveyors and local authorities. Opportunities are many and varied and could involve the preparation of drawings and specifications, surveying and setting out on site or the technical sales area dealing with equipment or the supply of specialist materials.

220

150

Application to CAO

Investing in your future

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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

On this course you will learn about the methods of sustainable construction, costing and planning associated with sustainable design projects. You will also study how to choose appropriate sustainable/renewable energy sources to provide a low carbon emission dwelling; as well as planning and managing new and renovation sustainable dwelling projects. The course will enable you to gain the academic and scientific capability necessary to make a significant contribution to sustainable construction and to create an awareness of environmental considerations.

Minimum Entry Requirements Higher Certificate in Science in Construction Studies (Level 6).

Modules Semester 1 Renewable Energy Systems, Sustainable Development, Building Inspection & Defect Analysis, Construction Management & Costing, Sustainable Design, Project.

Progression As a graduate of this programme you are eligible to apply for admission to second year of AITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three-year honours degree programme, Bachelor of Science in Construction Technology and Management. See also progression chart on page 87.

Career Opportunities Employment opportunities for graduates occur principally in the private sector e.g. sustainable building contractors and build environment professional consultancies. The general nature of the course helps to ensure a wide range of job opportunities, including employment with building contractors, architects, quantity surveyors and local authorities. Opportunities are many and varied and could involve the preparation of drawings and specifications, surveying and setting out on site or the technical sales area dealing with equipment or the supply of specialist materials.

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

Semester 2 Renewable Energy Systems, Energy Conservation & Rating, Building Services, Construction Management & Costing, Sustainable Design, Project.

AIT Undergraduate Prospectus

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AL014

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

Despite the current challenges faced by the construction industry, research indicates that sustainable construction, particularly in the domestic built environment, is still vibrant and that there are skills shortages in that area. This is a broadly based course which emphasises the principles of construction and has a strong bias towards sustainable construction practices. It will equip you with practical skills and an in-depth knowledge of sustainable construction materials and building techniques, including the adaptation/ refurbishment of existing dwellings to achieve a low carbon design, in order to create a more pleasant living and working environment. The course is delivered through lectures and practicals. You will be involved in practical work in the computing, construction science and AutoCAD laboratories, and also outdoor practicals in surveying. After completing this degree, you will be able to assess building sustainability from an environmental and community perspective, and make recommendations on reducing carbon emissions. You will have the ability to provide advice on linking optimum energy use with optimum sustainability in terms of building component design and performance vis-Ă -vis economic considerations. You will also have knowledge of the science of renewable energies and sustainable materials as applied to new and existing properties. You will be able to take on the role of project manager, coordinating a design team and providing advice on all construction issues. You will also be able to cost projects and be aware of the sources of finance available in the delivery of sustainable building projects.

FETAC

COURSE DETAILS Duration

Any FETAC level 5 qualification is acceptable. Applicants to this programme are required, however, to have the module Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) or Mathematics (C20139) or Mathematics for Computing (C20175) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics.

3 years

Modules

Mode Full-time Level

Year 1 Mathematics, Construction Technology & CAD, Building Science & Structures, Surveying & Setting Out, Measurement Costing & Materials, Communication & Computer Applications.

Year 2 Building Construction &Technology, Planning and Development, Construction Management, Surveying and Setting Out, Structural Design and Detailing, Sustainable Building Services Technology, Construction Management & Measurement.

Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

Year 3 Renewable Energy Systems, Energy Conservation & Rating, Sustainable Development, Building Inspection & Defect Analysis, Construction Management & Costing, Sustainable Design, Building Services, Project

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What our graduates say…

Building a Career Path GERARD CONNOR

Progression As a graduate of this programme you are eligible to apply for admission to second year of AIT’s three-year honours degree programme, Bachelor of Science in Construction Technology and Management. See also progression chart on page 87.

Career Opportunities Employment opportunities for graduates occur principally in the private sector e.g. sustainable building contractors and built environment professional consultancies. The general nature of the course helps to ensure a wide range of job opportunities, including employment with building contractors, architects, quantity surveyors and local authorities. Opportunities are many and varied and could involve the preparation of drawings and specifications, surveying and setting out on site or the technical sales area dealing with equipment or the supply of specialist materials.

“When I was filling out my CAO form in 2004 I knew that I wanted to select a construction course involving both the managerial and technical aspects of construction in Ireland today. AIT had just started providing an honours degree course in Construction Technology and Management and this satisfied everything that I was looking for in a college course. AIT is also renowned for its sporting achievements and facilities, and this combined with the quality of the course made me decide that AIT was right for me. AIT provided me with three great years, full of sport and study and not only did I benefit academically but socially and personally also. The facilities at AIT were excellent; the library, gym, sports hall and Scribes are well worth a visit if you are considering choosing a course here. Upon completing my degree it was important for me that I joined a company that was progressive and ambitious and these ideals are to the fore in Midland Construction. Through direction from senior management and wanting to benefit from the experience of others, I have established myself as the principle estimator within the organisation. The company directors have outlined a clear career path to me and whilst significant experience remains to be gained, I am more than satisfied with what I have achieved to date. I would not be in the position I am today only for the course I did at AIT. The three year BSc honours degree equipped me with strong managerial skills coupled with extensive technical and practical knowledge. The business and accounting aspects of the course provided me with a commercial awareness that is crucial in my current post as principle estimator with Midland Construction. I have great memories of my time at AIT and would recommend it without reservation to any student.”

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AL035

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT This three-year honours degree will equip you to recognise, evaluate and solve construction and management issues associated with building. Recognising that the successful construction manager of the future must possess both technical and managerial competencies, the curriculum combines studies in mathematics, engineering and the basic sciences with studies in business and management methods as applied to construction. The programme will provide you with knowledge of the principles and techniques of surveying, levelling and setting out. You will learn the scientific principles involved in construction, an understanding of the behaviour of construction materials and the fundamentals of structural mechanics. The principles of drainage, water supply and distribution, heating and ventilation, and recycling of construction and demolition waste management will be developed during your studies. You will also be taught how to apply mathematical calculations to determine structural properties of section and size-up members to resist imposed loading. From a managerial perspective you will learn the processes of management in the context of work organisations and the relationship between management and organisation theory. Your communications skills will be developed to equip you for efficient project management in the building industry. Site management is a critical skill for graduates and it is a central component of this programme, with an emphasis on health and site safety, the planning and organisation of sites and personnel, and the control of construction plant and equipment. You will also learn about planning legislation in the context of the built environment, including

the conservation of historic buildings and urban renewal. A key objective of this honours degree is that you are equipped with the skills to progress your career. Hence on graduation, you are prepared to immediately adopt a junior management role and are provided with the management skills and competencies to develop your career and, through further study and experiential learning, to aspire to higher management.

Minimum Entry Requirements

COURSE DETAILS Duration 3 years Mode Full-time

Leaving Certificate Grade C3 at higher level in two subjects, plus Grade D3 at ordinary level in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. The six subjects must include Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

FETAC FETAC applicants to this programme must hold the following award: Construction Technology (CCONT). They are also required to have the module Mathematics for Engineering (C20174) at Merit level included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics. They must have obtained distinctions in three modules.

Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

300

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Modules Year 1 Construction Technology & CAD, Building Science and Structures, Mathematics & Computer Applications, Surveying, Materials and Services, Construction Management.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Construction Technology, Construction Economics, Construction Management, Surveying, Services Technology, Mathematics & Computer Applications. An industrial placement of 14 weeks’ duration in an approved setting is mandatory.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Construction Technology, Architectural Heritage, Construction Economics, Construction Management, Services Technology, Mathematics & Computer Applications.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Construction Technology, Construction Economics, Construction Management, Construction Health and Safety, Business & Project Management, Project, Industrial Placement.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Construction Technology, Construction Economics, Construction Management, Construction Health and Safety, Business & Project Management, Project.

Progression

Accreditation

As a graduate of this honours degree, you may be eligible to apply for a Master of Technology or Master of Science degree in a cognate discipline at a variety of third level institution. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus.

As a graduate of this degree, you are automatically entitled to incorporated membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (ICIOB) and you may achieve chartered membership (MCIOB) on successfully completing a professional review. Furthermore, AIT students are entitled to student membership of the CIOB free of charge.

See also progression chart on page 87.

Career Opportunities You may be employed in the management of construction projects, specialist sub-contract management and property development. You may also find employment with quantity surveyors practices, state bodies and large national and international companies.

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What our graduates say…

GAA Star and Civil Engineer Contributes to M3 Project DAVID BRAY

Civil engineering graduate and Meath man, David Bray, was one of those involved in the building of the M3 motorway through his native county. The inter-county footballer says he was just one member of a big group of engineers, surveyors, technicians and trades people involved in one of the largest infrastructure projects in Ireland. One of the more satisfying aspects of a road engineer’s job, he says, is seeing how something can be transformed from a plan on paper to the finished article. David is employed by Roadstone, the company charged with putting the finished tar surface on the M3 from Dunshaughlin as far as Clonee, including numerous side roads and roundabouts. According to David, “The stone is made ready and we come in and put on our layers of tar onto the road. Basically, what I would be doing is going in front and levelling the road for the Roadstone crew behind us; they come along and provide the tar. “There are three or four technicians who work with me and, basically, we give the lads the levels, they’ll come behind us and bring it up with each layer of tar,” he explains. “There are four layers – roadbase one, roadbase two, a binder course that goes on at 60mm and then there’s a 35mm of thin layer – it’s called the wearing course.” Before coming to work for Roadstone four years ago, David worked for Meath County Council. Never one who envisaged working in an office, David enjoys working outdoors, playing his part in overcoming various logistical problems posed by such a challenging venture.

Courtesy: Meath Chronicle

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ELECTRONICS, COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

Countless reports and studies have illustrated the link between Ireland’s economic success and the strength of our ICT sector. The sector produces onethird of Ireland’s total exports, with annual sales of €50 billion and employs 70,000 skilled people. So significant in fact, is the ICT industry in this country, that Ireland is the third largest exporter of software in the world. According to the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, despite this enormous success there is a serious shortfall between availability of top-class ICT graduates and the current and projected employment needs of the industry. The sector has moved into higher value-added activities, and is again showing strong demand for people with high-level ICT skills. Employment growth is being driven by expansion in many companies, by a continuing flow of inward investment, and by the formation of new start-ups. ICT continues to be one of the main sources of new internationally traded indigenous businesses for Ireland. According to the National Skills Bulleton 2010, shortages have been identified for senior software developers (e.g. Java and SQL), IT security experts, network experts and IT project managers. Many of these are areas specifically addressed by AIT’s programmes in computer and software engineering.

100

According to the Director of ICT Ireland, Kathryn D’Arcy, a technical degree is similar to a classic arts degree in that it offers an all-round educational experience and the possibility of applying it to many other disciplines and career opportunities. ‘Within the technology sector there is an enormous variety, ranging from highly technical roles in design and development, to roles in sales and marketing,’ she said. All this indicates that the pace at which the computer, software and electronics industry in Ireland is growing is exceeding the rate at which students are graduating. Industry growth is in fact now principally dictated by the availability of engineers and technicians. The applications of electronics in industry are widespread. The impact on communications is particularly noticeable with the development of optical and satellite communications networks, etc. Industrial control (process control) is being revolutionised through the use of programmable logic controllers. Avionics and automotive industries increasingly incorporate microelectronics technology. Computers have revolutionised the financial services industry, while information technology is altering the way we store and retrieve data.

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Student profile…

Innovation Award Finalist CIARA PRESTON

Computer engineering student, Ciara Preston from Moate, came in second place at a prestigious skills competition in the UK in 2009. Ciara was competing in the electronics event at the WorldSkills team selection event in North Warwickshire.

AIT’s electronics courses cover the broad scope of modern electronics: principles of electronics, telecommunications, control and software engineering. Electronics engineering offers an exciting and varied career for all. An ability to solve problems and to apply new technologies characterises the successful electronics technician. Computer and software engineers design the hardware and software behind the countless electronic systems we use every day. Computer systems play an ever increasing role in our lives with everything from computer appliances such as HD TVs, games consoles to medical devices in hospitals. A qualification in computer/ software engineering from AIT offers tremendous opportunities for a long and varied career in sectors as diverse as gaming and web development, financial, medical, telecommunications, automotive or aeronautical a possibility.

According to Ciara’s lecturer and mentor, Ray Coyle, ‘Over the four days of the competition Ciara did herself and AIT proud. She was ahead coming into the final day of the event and was pipped at the post. The judges were extremely impressed by her enthusiasm and positive attitude and mentioned this in their adjudication. Ciara has benchmarked the quality of instruction and training at AIT and put Athlone firmly on the map as a centre of excellence in electronics.’ The thrill of designing something and see it work is what gives Ciara her greatest feeling of achievement. ‘I love working with new challenges and solving problems, and hope to progress to management level in a job that I find challenging,’ she said. No stranger to competition success, Ciara previously won the Irish Excellence in Electronics competition and is now going to do the Microsoft Project competition. She also participated recently in a European identity project called BLAID (Blended Learning and Intercultural Dialogue), which involved travelling to Belgium and Norway, with a group of other students from AIT. Ciara started her studies in AIT in 2006 on the Higher Certificate in Electronics and Computer Engineering and has just successfully completed a BEng in Computer Engineering. Ciara started her studies in AIT in 2006 on the Higher Certificate in Electronics and Computer Engineering and successfully completed a BEng in Computer Engineering, and a BEng (Hons) in Software Engineering.

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Why Choose Electronics, Computer and Software Engineering at AIT? n Placement opportunities in the honours

degrees in software design in game and web development thus better equipping students with experience demanded by employers. n Engineers Ireland accreditation

available to graduates of selected programmes. n Previous and existing studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; track

record of winning competitions such as Excellence in Electronics. n The new state-of-the-art Engineering

and Informatics Building which is wired for both-way remote transmission. n A number of degrees incorporate CISCO

qualifications.

Department of Electronics, Computer and Software Engineering Progression Chart Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Software Engineering (Level 8)

Bachelor of Bachelor of Higher Diploma in Science (Hons) in Science (Hons) in Science in Software Design Software Design Software Design (Web (Game (Level 8) Development) Development) + 1 year (Level 8) (Level 8

+ 1 year

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering (Level 7) + 1 year

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering (Level 7) 3 years

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Wireless Communications (Level 7)

Bachelor of Science in Computer Network Management (Level 7)

ab initio

3 years

ab initio

4 years

ab initio

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Electronics & Computer Engineering (Level 6) 2 years START HERE

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AL011

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN ENGINEERING IN ELECTRONICS AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING Recent developments in the Irish electronics sector have led to the creation of a considerable number of jobs in personal computer installation and servicing, network installation and maintenance.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 1

This course will qualify you to become a computer technician with enhanced knowledge of electronics, and computer hardware and software. On successful completion of this course you will have developed skills of assembly, testing, computer servicing, problem-solving and decision-making.

Year 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Semester 2

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

Electronics, Digital Systems, Mathematics, Software Development, Business Environment and Systems, Computer Project.

Communications Systems, Digital Systems, Mathematics, Software Development, Computer Project, Business Environment and Systems.

Progression As a graduate of this course you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering (Level 7) programme at AIT or related Level 7 programmes at other third-level institutions.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years Mode Full-time Level 6

See also progression chart on page 167.

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

Semester 2 Sports Development, Management Accounting/Finance, Information Technology. plus one module from Sports Studies, Community Recreation, Business French, Business German, Business Spanish.

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BACHELOR OF BUSINESS (HONOURS) IN MANAGEMENT IN TOURISM AND SPORT

This add-on honours degree focuses on managerial and developmental aspects which will equip you for a management role in the tourism, sport, recreation and leisure industry. You will develop transferable skills and competencies necessary for executive positions in the industry. Success at management level can often depend on an ability to identify problems and to diagnose appropriate solutions. This programme will give you the knowledge and skills to apply a critical, systematic and mature approach to problem solving within the tourism and sport industry. You will also develop the capacity to discriminate between alternative management strategies and to successfully manage change. Excellent social skills are particularly important in this industry and on this programme your personal development will be enhanced, so that you will manifest a high degree of self-confidence, sensitivity, responsibility, initiative and enterprise. Your ability to conceptualise, to draw independent conclusions based on a rigorous, analytical and critical approach to data, and to communicate effectively at different levels will be developed. You will be taught about the structure and organisation of the tourism and sport industry, on both a national and an international scale. You will also gain expertise in information technology, with particular reference to applications related to the tourism and sport industry.

Holders of the Bachelor of Business in Sport Management or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to join this programme.

COURSE DETAILS

Modules

Duration

Semester 1

1 year

Strategic Management, Marketing Management, Financial Management, Hotel Operational Training Simulation.

Mode

Semester 2

Full-time

Minimum Entry Requirements

Tourism and Regional Development, Business Research plus one module from Event Management, Management of Sport and Physical Activity Programmes.

Progression An honours (Level 8) degree is an effective basis for postgraduate training and research leading to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and PhD (Level 9/10) qualifications. Staff in the department or in the Careers Office can advise on the range of opportunities available at AIT, in Ireland and abroad for such postgraduate programmes. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities in AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus.

Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Taught postgraduate opportunities for the graduates of this programme are numerous and varied and include Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in health and leisure studies/recreation and leisure/ sport management/tourism management in other third-level institutions. Graduates with a minimum grade of 2.2 are also eligible to apply for the one-year, full-time Master of Business programme at AIT. See also progression chart on page 167.

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What our graduates say…

Accreditation As a graduate of this programme, you are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education programme at Irish universities to be recognised to teach the subjects: Accounting and Business.

Career Opportunities Employment opportunities are varied for graduates of this honours degree. They include work with county councils and community organisations as sport development officers; with the HSE as physical activity coordinators; with national sports governing bodies as coaches and administration officers; with local sports partnerships as sports coordinators; with third level educational institutions as sports officers; and with leisure facilities, health farms and holiday camps in managerial positions.

More Interested in Sport than College! MARIAN KENNEDY

Getting Maximum Benefit from the Facilities MARK McCORMACK

‘When it was time to fill out my CAO form I was more interested in sport than college! So applying for a Higher Certificate in Business Studies in Sport and Recreation was an obvious choice. The course had a good mixture of practical classes as well as all the lectures. The work experience was also a valuable six weeks and I got great experience in the leisure industry which still stands to me today.

‘I have just graduated from third year Bachelor of Business in Sport Management in AIT. I am thrilled that I made the choice to study in Athlone because the college has a good reputation in developing and enhancing student’s skills and education for the career path you chose.

I was terrified the first day going in to AIT not knowing anyone, but the induction process brought us into small groups and there I made some friends for life. Sport is a huge part of college life in AIT, there is plenty of team training sessions and bonding sessions afterwards. Plenty of opportunities to meet people from all walks of life. After my two years I stayed on to do a Bachelor of Business in Sport Management. This course was aimed more at tourism and business. From there I applied to DCU Sport for the position as Duty Manager which I was successful in getting.

The facilities on offer in the college was also a main reason to study in AIT because from participating in GAA and using the astro-turf pitch, gym, athletic track and indoor facilities, I have made many friends from playing sport and socialising in the college campus. I would recommend AIT to any student interested in studying Sport and Recreation with Business, because I have developed as a person from studying the range of subjects on offer from Sport Studies to Sport Psychology and Financial Management, and the course and college lets you develop a career path that suits you and your future.’

My three years in AIT taught me a lot, both in and out of the classroom. College is not just about learning from a book, it is about meeting new friends, trying new sports and activities and being the best that you can be.’

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AL004

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN ARTS – BAR SUPERVISION

The aim of this programme is to provide you with the professional craft and supervisory skills in bar and beverage service in order to provide a quality and unique customer experience in the Irish tourism industry. You will learn practical skills in the areas of bar and beverage service, casual dining, culinary skills, mixology and customer communications. You will be able to demonstrate understanding of bar and beverage product knowledge, and be able to assess customer needs and develop selling and merchandising techniques.

Year 1 – Semester 2 Beverage Studies, Advanced Bar Operations, Casual Dining, Communications/Customer Care, Environmental, Health & Safety plus one module from: Language or Tourism Studies

Year 2 – Semester 1 Work Based Learning, Food & Beverage Cost Control, Mixology and Product Development, Contemporary Beer Studies, Merchandising & Sales plus one module from:

The course also covers the application of business principles to bar and beverage service operations in the areas of marketing, merchandising and sales and cost control. You will also learn how to identify and apply appropriate legislation in relation to: equality, employment, environmental best practice, food safety legislation, health and safety, and licensing laws.

Advanced Beverage Studies, Advanced Bar Operations 2, Information Technology, Wine Studies, Introduction to Management

Minimum Entry Requirements

Progression

Leaving Certificate

As a graduate of this higher certificate, you will be eligible to apply to join year 3 of the BA in Hotel and Leisure Management.

Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. One of these subjects must be English.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years Mode Full-time

Financial Accounting or HRM and Training

Year 2 – Semester 2

Level 6

plus one module from:

Application to

Marketing Principles or Business Law

CAO

See also progression chart on page 167.

Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

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

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1

Career Opportunities As a graduate of this programme, you will be qualified to work as a bartender and in the area of food service in a range of hotels, bars and related service outlets.

Facilities Operations, Bar Service, Wine Appreciation, Learning to Learn, Information Technology plus one module from Language or Culinary Skills

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AL009

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN ARTS – HOSPITALITY STUDIES

The Irish welcome is renowned throughout the world; and nowhere is this more apparent than in the hospitality and tourism industry. Expert body research has pointed to the need to marry this reputation for ‘céad mile fáilte’ with enhancing standards of performance and professionalism in the industry. This higher certificate in hospitality studies is intended to fulfil this objective. The course will provide you with the professional skills of Irish hospitality operations and will develop an understanding of the practice of quality service in partnership with industry. It will provide you with rigorous technical skills training in Irish hospitality, accompanied by a focus on creativity, innovation and relationship skills, in order to deliver a quality and unique customer experience. An international dimension is woven through the course by offering you the opportunity to immerse yourself in other cultures through learning new languages and availing of an optional international placement at the end of the second year of the programme. As a graduate of the programme, you will be proficient and competent in the key operational areas of food and beverage and rooms division. You will also be able to understand and apply effective stock and cost control at operational level; and have knowledge of legislation governing the hospitality industry including hygiene and health and safety regulations.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Personal Development and Career Planning, Food and Beverage Operations, Culinary Skills, Accommodation Operations, Information Technology, Language

Year 1 – Semester 2 Personal Development and Career Planning, Food and Beverage Operations, Culinary Skills, Facilities Operations, Communications/Customer Care, Language

Year 2 – Semester 1 Work Based Learning, Advanced Food and Beverage, Front Office Operations, Human Resource Management and Training, Tourism Studies plus one module from

Year 2 – Semester 2 Event Concepts, Advanced Food and Beverage, Front Office Operations, Introduction to Management, Marketing Principles and Practices plus one module from Food and Beverage Costing, Language.

Progression

2 years Mode Full-time Level 6 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

As a graduate of this higher certificate, you will be eligible to apply to join year 3 of the BA in Hotel and Leisure Management. See also Progression Chart on page 167.

Career Opportunities

Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. One of these subjects must be English.

Due to the multi-skilled nature of the programme, graduates may find employment in medium-sized hotels, guesthouses, pubs, catering businesses, leisure and activity centres, cruise liners and tourist attractions, working in the restaurant, bar and accommodation services or in the reception function.

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

Duration

Food and Beverage Cost Control, Language.

Leaving Certificate

FETAC

COURSE DETAILS

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AL045

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN TOURISM AND GUEST SERVICES MANAGEMENT The importance of tourism to the Irish economy is underlined by its inclusion in the agenda for the Global Irish Economic Forum at Farmleigh in 2009. With nearly 200,000 people employed in the industry, it is one of the most critical sources of employment in the country.

Modules

This new BA in Tourism and Guest Services Management adopts a proactive approach to customer care, quality and service excellence in a hospitality and/or tourism setting. In particular, you will learn about customer service, operations, enterprise, and the management of front office guest services across the hybrid accommodation sector.

Introduction to Business and Management, Cultural Studies, Guest Services Accounting, Applied Languages.

Key issues within guest services, such as front office management will be addressed. This includes specialised activity such as advance reservations, information and communication services, safety and security, record keeping, night audits, sales, programming events, group bookings, revenue management, networking, developing tourism partnerships and tourism innovation will all be addressed.

Year 2 – Semester 2

Minimum Entry Requirements

Year 1 – Semester 1 Guest Services Management, Introduction to Tourism and Leisure, Communications and Customer Care, Learning to Learn.

Year 1 – Semester 2

Year 2 – Semester 1 Information Technology, Tourism Marketing, Guest Services Accounting, Applied Languages.

Information Technology, Tourism Field Studies, Placement.

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

Duration 3 years Mode Full-time Level 7

Year 3 – Semester 1 Guest Services Management, Tourism Enterprise Management, HRM and Training.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Management Accounting and Revenue Management, Tourism Innovation Management, Marketing Management, Applied Languages or Tourism Case Studies.

Leaving Certificate Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. One of these subjects must be English.

COURSE DETAILS

Progression

Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

As a graduate of this Level 7 Bachelor’s degree, you will be eligible to progress to a proposed new honours degree in this area. See also progression chart on page 167.

Career Opportunities As a graduate, you will be qualified to work in key customer contact/guest service positions as managers/assistant managers/ supervisors and/or operators in a range of tourism and hospitality enterprises or in the wider services sector, at home and abroad.

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aL008

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN HOTEL AND LEISURE MANAGEMENT

This new degree is the first of its kind in Ireland to offer a qualification in hotel and leisure management. It will give you the knowledge, skills and competencies necessary for employment in management and/or support positions within the hotel and leisure sector, and/or for further academic study in this or related areas.

Minimum Entry Requirements

The scope of the programme covers customer service, operations and management of hotel and leisure resources, enterprises and/or resorts in a modern dynamic business environment. It will equip you with the knowledge and skills for specialised activity in key hotel and leisure areas – front office and accommodation, food and beverage, water quality, measurement and safety, exercise and fitness programmes, developing leisure partnerships and leisure product innovation.

any FeTaC level 5 qualification is acceptable. There are no specific module requirements.

Reflecting as it does the defined needs of tourism industry professional bodies, there is a particular emphasis on the management disciplines of marketing, operations, accounting and finance, human resource management, and the application of information and communication technologies in the context of the hotel and leisure industry. as a student on this degree, you will also learn how to evaluate the impact of risk factors in hotel and leisure management and apply risk control measures.

Leaving Certifi cate 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

Modules

COURSE dETAIlS DuRATION 3 years MODE

year 1 – Semester 1

Full-time

Customer service, Business & Management, Learning to Learn, Food preparation or Food service

LEVEL

plus one module from

swimming & Creative play, health & Wellness, Language.

year 1 – Semester 2 accounting, Food preparation or Food service, environmental, health & safety Management plus one module from Gastronomy, anatomy & physiology, Language.

APPLICATION TO Cao POINTS 2009 Median

Final

n/a

year 2 – Semester 1 Front office, accommodation & Cleaning services, Information Technology, Culinary operations Management, Wet Facility Management plus one module from Guiding, anatomy & physiology, Language.

year 2 – Semester 2 outdoor Recreation, Marketing, Industry software, placement

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What our graduates say…

Selling an International Brand GILLIAN NEVIN Gillian Nevin was appointed Director of Sales for Ireland at Hilton Hotels in March 2009 and is responsible for six hotels in the north and south of the country: Mount Juliet Conrad, Conrad Dublin, Hilton Dublin, Hilton Dublin Airport, Hilton Belfast and Hilton Templepatrick. Gillian graduated from AIT with a degree in Hospitality Management and worked in operational roles in a number of hotels in the UK, Ireland and Germany. She returned to Ireland to complete her Masters degree in Tourism Management in DIT before pursuing her career in sales.

Year 3 – Semester 1 HRM and Training, Marketing Management, Culinary & Rooms Division Management plus one module from Lifestyle Management, Exercise & Fitness, Language.

She held her first sales role in Jurys Ballsbridge Hotel, before joining the Jurys Doyle Group Team as Business Development Manager in the UK. Gillian then moved back to Ireland and held the position of Director of Sales for the Morrison before joining the Clarion Hotel Group as Group Corporate Sales Manager.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Enterprise & Professional Development, Management Accounting & Revenue Management, Tourism & Leisure Management plus one module from Exercise & Fitness, Hotel, Leisure & Tourism Case Studies, Language.

Progression Graduates of this programme will be eligible to progress to a proposed new honours degree in this area. See also progression chart on page 167.

Career Opportunities As a graduate of this BA in Hotel and Leisure Management, you will be qualified to work as managers/assistant manager/ supervisors in a range of hotel and leisure outlets.

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AL017

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPA MANAGEMENT

The spa industry is a multi-million enterprise internationally and is an area of tourism growth globally. According to the European Spa Association (ESPA), there are over 1,200 spas and health resorts in 22 European nations. Health and wellness tourism has expanded rapidly in Ireland within a short time and the challenge for Irish spas is to keep up with international standards. Providing the educational tools to strengthen and sustain the spa industry’s labour pool at management level is a key objective of this course. The aim of this degree is to give students the knowledge, skills and competencies necessary for employment in management and/or support positions within the spa health and wellness tourism sector, and/or to prepare them for further academic study in this or related areas. The scope of the programme extends to customer service, operations, and management of spa health and wellness tourism resources, enterprises and/or destinations in a modern dynamic business environment. The institute is working in close cooperation with the Hodson Bay Hotel and the Sheraton Athlone Hotel in delivering the practical treatment modules of the course. This partnership ensures that graduates will be technically oriented as well as being flexible enough to work in different areas of spa management. The course also includes a six-month period of industrial placement in an international setting.

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

Garda Vetting Procedure

COURSE DETAILS Duration 3 years Mode

Full-time

Modules

CAO

Level 7 Application to

Year 1 – Semester 1 Customer Service & Spa Front Office, Introduction to Tourism & Leisure, Massage, Anatomy & Physiology, Health & Safety, Learning to Learn.

Year 1 – Semester 2

Points 2009 Median

Final

255

120

Anatomy & Physiology, Massage, Developing a Client Treatment Plan, Diet, Nutrition & Spa Cuisine, Financial Accounting, Introduction to Business & Management.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Introduction to Holistic & Complementary Treatments, Health & Wellness, Traditional Treatments, HRM & Training, Merchandising & Sales, Spa Facility Management.

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What our graduates say…

Regional Development Role FIONA CANDON Fiona Candon has over ten years experience in both regional and rural development, and is currently working as a consultant with First Western Consultants. Fiona is the former Development Manager with the Western Development Commission (WDC), a regional development state organisation responsible for the economic and social development of Ireland’s seven western counties (Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, Galway and Clare).

Year 2 – Semester 2 Industrial Placement.

Year 3 – Semester 1 Quality Management, Lifestyle Management, Eastern Treatments, Enterprise & Professional Development, Marketing, Management Accounting.

Year 3 – Semester 2 Environmental Management, Tourism Studies, Spa Journey & Treatments, Spa Tourism Case Studies, Marketing Management, Yield & Revenue Management.

As a senior manager with the WDC Fiona facilitated, developed and implemented regional and rural strategic initiatives in partnership with the private, public and voluntary sectors throughout the region. Major strategic initiatives include management and development of the WDC Look West initiative and management, implementation and delivery of all aspects of the WDC’s strategic aim relating to initiatives in sustainable tourism, organic agri-food and renewable energy. Fiona has extensive development experience and is skilled particularly in bringing together key stakeholders, achieving buy-in, facilitating partnerships, securing funding and implementing best practice pilot projects. She has worked extensively at national level influencing policy around regional and rural development. An honours degree graduate in Tourism and Hospitality Management from AIT, Fiona also has a Masters of Rural Development from NUI Galway and a Postgraduate Diploma in Local and Regional Development from DIT.

Progression Graduates of this programme will be eligible to progress to a proposed new honours degree in this area. See also progression chart on page 167.

Career Opportunities Graduates with a BA in Spa Management will be qualified to work as spa managers, assistant spa managers, owners/ entrepreneurs and spa receptionists.

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BACHELOR OF BUSINESS (HONOURS) IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

It is widely reported that graduates with management expertise are essential to the ongoing growth and expansion of the tourism and hospitality industry. This add-on honours degree will prepare you for managerial and executive positions within the industry and you will develop transferable expertise which is recognised in the various industry sectors.

Semester 2

A key management skill is the ability to identify and solve problems. On this programme you will develop a conceptual, systematic approach to problem-solving in the tourism and hospitality industry. You will learn to draw independent conclusions based on a rigorous, analytical approach to data and to communicate effectively at different levels. You will also learn about various management strategies and about the management of change in an organisation.

An honours degree (Level 8) is an effective basis for postgraduate training and research leading to Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and PhD (Level 9/10) qualifications. Staff in the department or in the careers office can advise on the range of opportunities available at AIT, in Ireland and abroad for such postgraduate programmes. Taught postgraduate opportunities for graduates of this programme in hospitality management and tourism management are available in other third-level institutions. Graduates with a minimum grade of 2.2 are also eligible to apply for the one-year, full-time Master of Business programme at AIT. Full details of all postgraduate opportunities at AIT are contained in the postgraduate prospectus.

Your communication skills will be enhanced, enabling you to communicate with selfconfidence and clarity. You will be taught about IT, and in particular, about applications relevant to the tourism and hospitality industry. Learning about the structure and organisation of the tourism and hospitality industry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; nationally and internationally â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is also a component of this degree.

Minimum Entry Requirements Graduates of ordinary degrees such as Bachelor of Business in Hospitality Business Management/Hotel and Catering Management/Front Office and Tourism Management or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to apply for this programme.

Modules Semester 1 Strategic Management, Marketing Management, Financial Management, Hotel Operational Training Simulation.

Tourism and Regional Development, Business Research plus one module from Business French, Business German, Business Spanish, Event Management.

Progression

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

See also progression chart on page 167.

Career Opportunities When you graduate, you may obtain employment in areas such as tourism, hospitality, retailing, education, banking, finance, insurance, management, business, administration and computing within industrial and commercial services sectors.

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AL002

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN ARTS – CULINARY ARTS

This Higher Certificate in Arts – Culinary Arts is ideal for those with a passion for food and who wish to take that interest to the next level. Previous culinary arts students at AIT have gone on to make their mark in restaurants and hotels as far flung as Beijing and London, while many more are to be found closer to home in the Midlands. You could be the next one to make your mark in the kitchen. The course will provide you with the knowledge, skills and competence necessary for a career in the culinary arts sector. This will be achieved by providing you with the essential practical skills and academic knowledge required of modern day professionals working in kitchen environments. Practical demonstrations and hands-on food preparation and production methods are an integral part of the course. You will get to prepare and cook dishes for a meal service in a realistic working environment, within a production kitchen, and will experience time deadlines associated with a working kitchen in industry. You will be exposed to international cuisine; gain experience of producing breads, gateaux, pastries and desserts; while understanding and applying cost and quality control procedures to the food you are preparing. Food safety and hygienic work practices form an integral part of the course, while you will also develop your knowledge of the principles of nutrition in foods.

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Grade D3 at ordinary level in five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. One of these subjects must be English.

180

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

Modules Year 1 – Semester 1 Culinary Skills, Culinary Operations, Pastry, Food Safety and Culinary Science, Information Technology, Learning to Learn.

Year 1 – Semester 2 Culinary Skills, Culinary Operations, Pastry, Restaurant Service, Communications, Nutrition.

Year 2 – Semester 1 Culinary Skills, Global Cuisine, Pastry, Essentials of Business, Gastronomy, Work Based Learning.

Year 2 – Semester 2 Culinary Skills, Pastry, Buffet Presentations, Classical and Contemporary Cuisine, Essentials of Business, Applied Culinary Science.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years Mode Full-time Level 6 Application to Admissions Office, AIT Points 2009

Progression Graduates of this programme, with one year’ s industry experience, will be eligible to progress to the modular BA in Culinary Arts. This is a part-time course running over 3 years.

Median

Final

N/A N/A

See also progression chart on page 167.

Career Opportunities Graduates from this course will be in an excellent position to obtain employment in the hospitality and catering industries.

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BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CULINARY ARTS

This part-time degree programme will enable you to develop, produce and evaluate complex and artistic culinary products of the highest quality, underpinned with the application of advanced (state-of-the-art) technology, within a commercial context.

Minimum Entry Requirements Advanced Certificate in Professional Cookery or equivalent, plus at least one year’s industrial experience.

What our graduates say…

Totally Immersed in Cookery DARREN COSTELLO

COURSE DETAILS Duration 3 years Mode

Modules

Part-time

Gastronomy, Food Product Development, Human Resource Management and Training, Synoptic Study, Work-Based Learning

Level

plus two modules from

Classical and Contemporary Cuisine, Specialised Kitchen, Pastry and Confectionery parts 1 and 2.

Application to

Programme Delivery This programme will be taught on a modular/day-release basis over three academic years.

Admissions Office, AIT

Athlone native, Darren Costello, aims to be a head chef of a restaurant in the future, and decided to undertake an intensive 9-month Total Immersion Chefs Programme at AIT to help realise his ambition. Having learned about the course from the head chef where he works and having heard good things about the institute from friends who went there he enrolled in the programme. “The course sounded so interesting to me,” he said, “because it’s a very hands-on approach to cooking. I have a great passion for working with food and with the qualification I would receive I could work anywhere in the world as it is internationally recognised. “The most interesting part is Culinary Skills and Classical European because Culinary Skills shows you how to use all the equipment and what each piece is for. I really enjoyed Classical European because it is the benchmark for all modern cookery and when you have a good understanding of this, it’s easy to change dishes to your own taste. “Our class was fairly small so we all had a really good relationship and helped each other out. The class was 50/50 boys and girls. We enjoyed class nights out and we took a trip to London together without the lecturers. “The lecturers were always on hand to help us out, they were absolutely brilliant, and they put in a huge amount of work into the course for us and always took time to explain things thoroughly. The facilities in the college were top class. We had our own kitchen with full access to fridges, dry stores and larders so we always had good ingredients to hand and whatever ingredients we needed.”

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DĂĄmh na hEolaĂochta School of Science Introduction

184

Life and Physical Science

186

n Higher Certificate in Science (Bioscience/Chemistry)

188

n Bachelor of Science in Toxicology one-year, add-on

189

190

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Toxicology

four-year, ab initio

191

n Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology

three-year, ab initio

193

194

195

182

Safety Management two-year, part-time add-on

200

201

Nursing and Health Science

202

n Higher Certificate in Science in Dental Nursing

204

n Higher Certificate in Science (Pharmacy Technician)

205

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in

206

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing in

208

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing

through ACCS mode

n Bachelor of Science Honours in Agricultural Studies

one-year, add-on

two-year, part-time

Psychiatric Nursing four-year, ab initio

n Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing

three-year, ab initio

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n Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Technology,

General Nursing four-year, ab initio

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology

one-year, add-on

Sciences four-year, ab initio

n Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Health and

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Toxicology

one-year, add-on

n Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical

210

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Dr Don Faller Head of Department of Life and Physical Science Email: dfaller@ait.ie Telephone: +353 (0)90 644 2587 Dr Pearse Murphy Head of Department of Nursing and Health Science Email: pmurphy@ait.ie Telephone: +353 (0)90 647 1801

Note In addition to the above courses, the School also offers a comprehensive range of courses through the Department of Adult and Continuing Educationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s part-time schedules. Please refer to the Department of Adult and Continuing Educationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s part-time prospectus for details.

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INTRODUCTION This is a very exciting time to be involved with science. Science, technology and knowledgedriven enterprises have become increasingly important to economic success in a globalised market. This has been recognised for some time by the Irish government, who have made an unprecedented national commitment to scientific research, technological development and innovation in recent years. This commitment is reflected in the National Development Plan 2007-2013, in the Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) 2006-2013, and, most recently, in Building Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal, published at the end of 2008. The fact that this commitment was reiterated at a time of increasing economic pressure underlines the seriousness of the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intent.

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A science qualification is an excellent programme of study at third level. If you are sure about your choices, it opens up access to mainstream science careers. If you’re less sure, however, it provides an excellent grounding and undergraduate experience that will give you access to a host of non-science careers. A recent Forfás survey illustrated the wide range of industries that science graduates enter – agriculture, forestry and fishing; chemical (including fertilisers, rubber and plastics); computer/ electronic equipment; education; food and drink; health services; management consultancy; pharmaceuticals; etc. According to their most recent National Skills Bulletin for 2010, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs write that ‘current skills shortages have been identified for high calibre niche R&D scientists (chemists, biologists, etc.), managers (clinical trials, supply chain, etc.), animal nutritionists, science technicians (prototyping/ development), regulation experts and multidisciplinary experts (e.g. bioconvergence, blend of science and business, etc.).’ With a science qualification from AIT it is possible to enter a career in these areas. The School comprises two departments – Life and Physical Science and Nursing and Health Science – with allied research activity and facilities. The Department of Life and Physical Science offers a diverse range of undergraduate programmes up to honours degree in the core domains of toxicology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences, and vocationally applied fields of veterinary nursing, agricultural studies and environmental health and safety management. The Department of Nursing and Health Science offers honours degree programmes in clinical general and psychiatric nursing, as well as programmes in dental nursing and pharmacy technician. Science courses in AIT are in fields of study which lead to excellent job opportunities. Opportunities also exist to transfer to related courses in other academic institutions, both in Ireland and abroad. Links with overseas institutions broaden your education and perspective, thereby enhancing your employment prospects and

technical mobility. The Department of Life and Physical Science received competitive funding from the EU under the EU/US Programme for Cooperation in Higher Education and Vocational Education and Training to support the completion of semester two of selected year 3 students in collaborating US institutions – Daemen College (Buffalo, New York), Pitzer College (California) and New College (Florida). Other links exist with the University of Ulster; the University of Applied Sciences Fachhochschule Emden Leer, the University of Birkenfeldt, Germany; and exchange links have been developed with the Institutes Universitaire de Technologie (IUTs) in Rennes, St Brieuc and Lannion in France. These exchange links are being expanded to include industries as well as educational establishments. There are in parallel substantive research collaborations with universities in the UK, Italy and the US, as well as within Ireland. Courses in the School of Science are undertaken through a programme of lectures, practical work, tutorials and work-based training. Continuous assessment plays a major part in all courses and emphasis is placed on the development of practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. Individual project work and/or industrial placements are an essential part of many programmes. The School has a wide range of advanced instrumentation available for project work and in many cases the industrial placement provides the venue for students’ full projects. Research and consultancy are important features of the School’s work, with academic faculty undertaking research in various fields, funded by grants from State agencies, the EU and industry. Consultancy work is undertaken by faculty for industry and local authorities, in conjunction with the Office of Research. These research and consultancy activities help maintain the relevance of courses, provide a solid basis for many student projects and ensure that employers are aware of the quality of our graduates. The School’s research strengths lie particularly in the areas of cell and molecular toxicology, ecotoxicology, separation and analytical technology. The

School has been successful in attracting significant research funding in recent years from the EU-Framework programmes; Higher Education Authority (HEA): Programme for Research in Third-Level Institutions (PRTLI); Department of Education and Skills: Technological Sector Research; and Enterprise Ireland: Innovation Partnerships, Department of Agriculture, HRB, EPA and SFI. The School of Science has also been particularly successful in supporting the acquisition of state-of-the-art scientific equipment. Recent major acquisitions include: an ion chromatograph, DNA microarray scanner, multi-label plate reader, real time PCR cycler, and fast protein LC purification system. The School also hosts a surface analysis laboratory which supports a scanning electron microscope and a scanning probe microscope bioreactor and in vitro translation technology. The School conducts research in the Bioscience Research Institute (BRI), the Materials Research Institute (MRI) and in internal chemistry and ecotoxicology research laboratories. In the Department of Nursing and Health Science, taught and research-based postgraduate programmes in nursing are being delivered and developed in line with health service demand. These are in addition to the three undergraduate degrees. A recently formed Biomedical and Health Science research group was established in the Department offering opportunities to PhD students in the nursing and health science fields. If you require additional information or have any queries regarding a course, please contact the School of Science. Should you wish to visit the School, you will be most welcome.

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LIFE AND PHYSICAL SCIENCE

The life sciences are concerned with the study of living things and biology is traditionally subdivided into zoology (the study of animal life), botany (the study of plant life) and microbiology (the study of microorganisms). However, the enormous growth and expansion of the life sciences over the last century has produced a myriad of further specialist disciplines to include physiology, biochemistry, ethology, ecology, genetics, pharmacology, neurobiology, cell and molecular biology, toxicology and development biology, etc. The study of biology is basic to scientific progress and has many important applications in industry, medicine and protection of the environment. Since the 1970s biological research has led to many developments which have improved the quality of human life. The level of understanding that has been achieved offers the realistic prospect of solving fundamental problems of human disease and finite longevity. The twenty-first century is widely predicted to witness the further advancement of biotechnology and the creation of many life science dependent industries. The challenge facing biology and biologists today is to ensure that biological research and the application of biological science to human progress fulfils the many demands of the modern world. To equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to make a career in molecular biology and dependent fields, AIT has developed ordinary and honours level degrees in biotechnology.

186

Toxicology is the study of the harmful effects of drugs, environmental contaminants, and naturally occurring substances found in food, water, air and soil. Toxicological research is important for improving the health of humans, animals and their environments. It also provides an understanding of the mechanisms by which chemical substances cause injury, and this information can be used in the treatment of poisonings. Toxicological studies are required to ensure the safety of medicines, household and agrochemicals, and industrial and natural chemicals. It represents an area of science of growing importance and opportunity, largely as a consequence of the rapid increase in environmental and safety legislation. A further driver of toxicology is the continuing growth of the healthcare sector and the demands on the industry to develop a greater number of new drug compounds. In recent years, AIT has also introduced a number of new programmes which are meeting a real need in the workplace for qualified graduates. The institute pioneered and offers an established BSc in Veterinary Nursing, and is now offering an add-on degree in agricultural studies. Employment prospects are excellent due to the upsurge in the scale, demands and sophistication of veterinary practices.

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Department of Life and Physical Science Progression Chart Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Toxicology (Level 8) + 1 year

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Toxicology (Level 8)

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology (Level 8)

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Agricultural Studies (Level 8)

4 years

+ 1 year

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Science (Level 8)

Year 4 of science programmes at AIT and elsewhere

4 years

ab initio

ab initio Bachelor of Science in Toxicology (Level 7) + 1 year

Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology (Level 7 3 years

Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing (Level 7) 3 years

(Level 7)

ab initio

+ 2 years

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Technology

Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Health & Safety Management (Level 7)

part-time

+ 2 years

part-time

Higher Certificate in Science (Bioscience/ Chemistry) (Level 6) 2 years START HERE

Why Choose Life and Physical Science at AIT? n Extensive periods of clinical and

industrial placement are an intrinsic part of many of our programmes, thus providing students with practical experience, highly valued by employers. n Lecturers have extensive industry

experience which enriches their teaching.

n Graduates from our honours degrees in

Toxicology and Agricultural Studies are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. n Many of the courses are recognised by

professional bodies such as the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland, the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Veterinary Council of Ireland, etc.

n Close relationship between AIT and the

biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, which form the bedrock of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future prosperity. AIT 1970-2010

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AL016

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN SCIENCE (BIOSCIENCE/CHEMISTRY)

This higher certificate will give you an excellent grounding in the areas of bioscience and chemistry. Areas of employment opportunity exist for science technicians in research, industry, educational institutions and governmental agencies. One of the strengths of the programme is that even if you have limited science at Leaving Certificate level, it gives you the opportunity to experience the main areas of science before deciding which specialised area of study to pursue on completion of the course.

Modules

The programme contains modules in the areas of science of matter, scientific methods, quantitative methods, origins of life and evolution, environmental and forensic science and health science. You also cover the traditional science subjects of physics, chemistry, bioscience, computing and mathematics.

Progression

188

Year 1 Scientific Methods, Origins of Life and Evolution, Science of Matter, Health Science, Environmental and Forensic Science, Quantitative Methods, Physics, Bioscience, Chemistry, Computing, Mathematics.

COURSE DETAILS Duration

Year 2

2 years

Mathematics, Instrumental Analysis, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology, Genetics and Forensic Science.

Mode

As a graduate you are eligible to apply to join either the Bachelor of Science in Toxicology at AIT, or related Level 7 programmes at other third-level institutions.

Full-time Level 6

See also progression chart on page 187.

Application to Career Opportunities Opportunities for science technicians exist in research, industry, educational institutions and government agencies. Industry offers opportunities in quality control, manufacturing processes, research and development and environmental management, within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and food processing sectors. In addition, many companies manufacturing textiles, agrochemicals and fertilisers, polymers and paints, food and drink, dyestuffs, metals and toiletries also recruit technicians for laboratory and process work. The public sector offers opportunities in water analysis, in food analysis and research, and in forensic science, as well as positions in third-level institutions.

CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

260

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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN TOXICOLOGY

Toxicology is the study of harmful effects of chemicals on people, animals and other living organisms. It is a multidisciplinary area and can accommodate people from a host of different backgrounds. Toxicologists make important contributions to science and society by investigating what happens to us when we are exposed to toxic levels of drugs, pesticides, air pollutants and other chemicals.

Modules

The aim of this add-on degree is to produce highly qualified toxicology technicians, who are capable of applying a wide range of existing toxicological techniques and of contributing to the development of new techniques. The course incorporates a minimum of a two-month industrial placement. As a toxicologist you may be employed in research, product safety evaluation, public service, regulatory affairs, consultancy and teaching.

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

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

Analytical Toxicology, Ecotoxicology, Occupational Health and Safety/Regulatory Affairs, Toxicology/Toxicological Pathology, Quality Control and Experimental Design, Mechanistic Toxicology, Pharmacology, Industrial Placement.

Progression

COURSE DETAILS Duration 1 year Mode Full-time

See also progression chart on page 187.

Level

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.

Application to Admissions Office, AIT

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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN TOXICOLOGY

There is an ever-increasing demand from industry for highly trained toxicologists to ensure that products are safe and that they satisfy regulatory standards. This add-on honours degree aims to meet the demands of regulatory authorities for qualified personnel to ensure that products released onto the market comply with national, eU and international standards which are constantly being updated and strengthened.

Minimum Entry Requirements 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 Mechanistic Toxicology, Toxicity Testing Methods, pharmacology and Immunology, Cell and Molecular Toxicology, Regulatory affairs, project.

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. See also progression chart on page 187.

Accreditation Graduates of this programme are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a postgraduate Diploma in education programme at Irish universities to be recognised to teach the subject Biology.

Career Opportunities

COURSE dETAIlS DuRATION 1 year MODE Full-time LEVEL 8 APPLICATION TO admissions office, aIT

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.

Investing in your future

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AL033

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN TOXICOLOGY

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 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 Leaving Certificate Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects, Grade B3 in Mathematics at ordinary level, plus three subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. Subjects to include a language (English or Irish).

FETAC FETAC applicants to this programme must hold the following award: Laboratory Techniques (CASLT). They are also required to have the module Mathematics (C20139) at minimum Merit level included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics. They must also possess distinctions in three modules.

Modules Year 1 Scientific Methods, Origins of Life and Evolution, Science of Matter, Health Science, Environmental and Forensic Science, Quantitative Methods, Physics, Bioscience, Chemistry, Computing, Mathematics.

Year 2 Mathematics, Instrumental Analysis, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology, Genetics and Forensic Science.

Year 3 Analytical Toxicology, Ecotoxicology, Occupational Health and Safety/Regulatory Affairs, Toxicology/Toxicological Pathology, Quality Control and Experimental Design, Mechanistic Toxicology, Pharmacology, Industrial Placement.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 4 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

340

275

Year 4 Pharmacology and Immunology, Toxicity Testing, Mechanistic Toxicology, Cell and Molecular Pathology, Regulatory Affairs, Project.

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What our graduates say…

CsI: aIT FInTan GaRaVan

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 187.

Accreditation as a graduate of this programme you are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a postgraduate Diploma in education programme at Irish universities to be recognised to teach the subject Biology.

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.’

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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AL021

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY

Biotechnology is the use of living organisms or their sub-cellular components to develop useful products, processes or services. According to the Irish Council for Science Technology and Innovationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report on Biotechnology, it encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including the life sciences, agriculture, environmental science, medicine, chemistry, veterinary medicine, engineering and computer science. This degree programme is designed to meet the growing demand for scientists to service the current and emerging biotechnologybased industries in Ireland and the Midlands in particular. The amount of molecular sequence data generated and exploited by molecular biologists means that there is a natural and intrinsic link between this discipline and information technology, and the course significantly includes a computer-based bioinformatics module. The current industrial perception is that Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future technology will predominantly be based upon biotechnology and IT orientated industries. Molecular biology is already all pervasive within the life sciences, including toxicology, and is crucial to the progression of biotechnology.

COURSE DETAILS Duration

Year 2

3 years

Mathematics, Instrumental Analysis, Microbiology, Recombinant DNA Technology, Molecular Biosystems.

Mode

Year 3

Full-time

Advanced Biotechnology, Advanced Cell Biology, Occupational Health and Safety/ Regulatory Affairs, Genetic Engineering, Quality Control and Experimental Design, Applied Biotechnology, Forensic Science and Molecular Genetics, Industrial Placement.

Progression As a graduate of this programme you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology at AIT, or related Level 8 programmes at other third-level institutions. See also Progression Chart on page 187.

Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

295

155

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 (HONOURS) IN BIOTECHNOLOGY

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 Government’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 AIT’s degrees in biotechnology provides. 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.

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

Course Subjects

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 187.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 1 year Mode Full-time

Accreditation As a graduate of this programme you are deemed eligible by the Department of Education and Science to apply for a Higher Diploma in Education programme at Irish universities to be recognised to teach the subject Biology.

Career Opportunities

Level 8 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Graduates may be employed in the processing, quality assurance analysis/ bioanalysis, validation, management, optimisation and technology transfer areas.

Bioprocess Technology, Analytical Biotechnology, Validation and Good Manufacturing Practice, Bioinformatics, Project.

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AL029

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. Veterinary nurses assist in a variety of tasks such as developing x-rays, dressing wounds and assisting with surgical procedures. They may also be responsible for dressing wounds, laboratory tests, and handling and treating animals. Their roles can be in an advisory capacity, such as advising clients about husbandry, and kennel and stable management. They may also be responsible for administering medicines and dispensing and stock control. Administrative duties may also be part of the veterinary nurse’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.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 3 years Mode

Modules Year 1 Anatomy and Physiology, Biological Sciences, General Nursing, Diagnostics & Diagnostic Imaging, Laboratory Science & Quantitative Methods, Communications and Computing, Animal Handling & Assessment – Gurteen, Practice Placement (10 Weeks).

Year 2 Clinical Physiology and Pathology, Pharmacology, Large Animal Husbandry, Companion Animal Husbandry, Biochemistry, Marketing, Animal Husbandry – Gurteen, Practice Placement (10 weeks).

Year 3 Anaesthesia & Surgical Nursing, Special Needs Nursing, Clinical Veterinary Microbiology, Animal Genetics and Behaviour, Veterinary Immunology, Financial and Cost Accounting, Ethics and Regulatory Affairs, Practice Placement (10 weeks).

Full-time Level 7 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

450

405

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Building a Research Career Kelsey McEvoy, a final year agricultural studies degree student at AIT was successful in the Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology (IRCSET) â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Embark Initiativeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Postgraduate Scholarship scheme 2010. Kelsey will undertake doctoral research into how to stop a particular bacteria (Cronobacter malonaticus) from causing disease.

Progression As a graduate you are eligible to apply for the BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Studies 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. See also progression chart on page 187.

Accreditation This course is accredited by the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI).

Career Opportunities

This bacteria is most often found in powdered milk formulas used to feed infants and causes very serious problems such as meningitis, and infection can cause death. The bacteria works by infecting cells in the intestines and then travels to the brain or other parts of the body. Kelsey will be researching how to find a way of stopping the bacteria from invading the intestinal cells, cutting it off before it can even begin to cause disease. The research will augment current food-related research in the School of Science and strengthen inter-departmental collaboration within the school.

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.

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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN AGRICULTURAL STUDIES

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 or an equivalent Level 7 qualification are eligible to apply to join this programme.

Modules Food Microbiology, Molecular Biotechnology in Agriculture, Bioanalysis, Food Processing and Technology, Food Safety, Health and Safety, Animal Husbandry, Land Use and Environment, Farm Management and Planning, 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 187.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 1 year Mode Full-time Level 8

Accreditation Graduates of this programme are deemed eligible by the Teaching Council to apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education programme at Irish universities to be recognised to teach the subjects Biology and Agricultural Science.

Application to Admissions Office, AIT

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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AL053

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors are widely regarded as the effective economic driver 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. 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.

Modules

In third and fourth year you can choose between two streams on this programme: a traditional pharmaceutical stream and a biopharmaceutical products stream.

plus either of the following two options

Minimum Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate Minimum of Grade C3 in two higher level subjects, Mathematics at minimum Grade B3 at ordinary level. The six subjects must include a language (English or Irish).

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Year 2 Mathematics, Instrumental Analysis, Molecular Biosystems, Chemistry, Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Microbiology.

Year 3 Pharmaceutical Analysis and Statistics, Quality Assurance and Good Manufacturing Practice, Dosage Form Design, Industrial Placement

Pharmaceutical Option Chemistry of Pharmaceutical Materials and Advanced Scientific Techniques, Pharmaceutical Synthesis and Natural Products. Biopharmaceutical Option Gene Derived Pharmaceuticals, Mechanistic and Analytical Toxicology.

Year 4

COURSE DETAILS Duration 4 years Mode Full-time Level 8 Application to CAO Points 2009 Median

Final

N/A N/A

Experimental Design and Validation, Regulatory Affairs, Project plus either of the following two options

Biopharmaceutical Option Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing, Design, Disposition and Delivery of Biopharmaceuticals, Bioinformatics Pharmaceutical Option Pharmaceutical Technology, API Discovery and Development.

Investing in your future

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What our graduates say…

Back to Education JOANNE QUINN

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.

In 1998, Joanne Quinn, a home-maker and mother of four young children from Co Longford, decided that she would like a career in nursing and returned to education at AIT on the full-time threeyear, ab inito National Diploma in Nursing in General Nursing. She completed that programme with merit and progressed to undertake the honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing, through ACCS mode, which she completed in 2002. Joanne is currently employed as a nurse in both medical and surgical wards in a regional hospital. ‘Overall I found the studies and the clinical placements very exciting and stimulating. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of the course, and would recommend it to anyone interested in nursing. On a personal level one needs to be focused and consistent, in order to balance both studies and family. It is also very encouraging for my children to know that education is for all, no matter what age you are!’

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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHARMACEUTICAL TECHNOLOGY

This add-on degree addresses the need for technical staff progression education in the production areas of pharmaceutical, healthcare and biotechnology industries, with particular emphasis on good manufacturing practice and manufacturing technology. These staff are responsible for primary manufacturing activities, carrying out primary inspections of products and plant facilities and involved in quality assurance, product testing, trouble shooting and technical problem solving. The programme focuses on providing education in fundamental and applied aspects of good manufacturing practice, manufacturing technology and relevant science. It also includes professional development in areas such as production management, supervisory management and report writing. It allows for some specialisation in either finished dosage/ active pharmaceutical ingredient or biotechnology production.

Modules Part 1 Production and Supervisory Management, Manufacturing and Process Technology II, Environmental Management, Technology Transfer plus one module from Process Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Formulation, Process Chemistry and Engineering.

Part 2 Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP), Quantitative Methods, Project plus one module from Process Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Formulation, Process Chemistry and Engineering.

Progression

The programme is relevant for candidates with an appropriate higher certificate in science who wish to gain knowledge of practices within the pharma/biotech sectors, and to staff already working within those industries who wish to obtain more advanced experience.

When you graduate from this programme, if you wish to further your qualifications in the area of pharmaceutical technology, you are eligible to apply for relevant honours degree (Level 8) programmes in Ireland or abroad.

Entry Requirements

Career Opportunities

Holders of an appropriate higher certificate in science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification are eligible to apply.

This course is especially suited to staff already employed in the healthcare sector who wish to upgrade existing skill or to those interested in entering this industry.

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COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years Mode Part-time (ACCS) Level 7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

See also progression chart on page 187.

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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT

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.

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.

COURSE DETAILS Duration 2 years

See also progression chart on page 187.

Mode

Accreditation

Part-time (ACCS)

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

Level

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.

7 Application to Admissions Office, AIT

Modules Year 1 Environmental Science, Training and Computing, Occupational Health, Hygiene and Hazards, Legislation.

Year 2 Risk Management, Environmental Management, Construction and Fire Safety, Waste Management Technology, Project

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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. 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.

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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.

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What our graduates say…

From pharmacy Technician to Mpharm MaRIa KenneDY

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.

students benefit from the various areas of expertise available at the three general hospitals in the hse Midlands area, in Tullamore, portlaoise, and Mullingar.

as a graduate of aIT your nursing qualification is recognised and respected throughout the world.

The department is pioneering research in the area of nursing and health science in Irish third level institutions.

aIT is the only Irish higher education institution participating in a paneuropean food technologies and food safety postgraduate initiative.

Department of Nursing and Health Science Progression Chart

Maria Kennedy from St Mullins in south Carlow arrived in AIT in September 2005, as a pharmacy technician student. Having completed the two years of her higher certificate, she was accepted at the University of Brighton on their MPharm (Hons) programme. ‘I was always interested in studying pharmacy,’ she says, ‘and the two years you spend in AIT really stand to you.’ Maria highlights the ten weeks placement in each year as being of particular benefit. ‘You spend 16 weeks working in a hospitalbased pharmacy, which gives you a good sense of the role of a pharmacy technician, while also learning about the drugs. During your four weeks in the community pharmacy, you get to build upon that experience, as you learn about the practical business elements of running a pharmacy,’ she says.

Postgraduate Opportunities (Levels 9 and 10)

year 2 of science programmes at AIT and elsewhere

Higher Certifi cate in Science in Dental Nursing (Level 6)A2 years

Higher Certifi cate in Science (Pharmacy Technician) (Level 6)

Bachelor of Bachelor of Bachelor of Science (Honours) Science (Honours) Science (Honours) in Nursing in in Nursing in in Nursing General Nursing Psychiatric (Level 8) (Level 8) Nursing 1-5 years (Level 8) 4 years part-time 4 years ab initio (ACCS) ab initio

2 years sTaRT heRe AIT 1970-2010

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AL042

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

COURSE DETAILS Duration

Year 2

2 years

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

Mode

Progression

Level

After graduating from this programme you may apply to enter the second year of a science programme at AIT. Some graduates have been awarded places on dental hygiene courses through the UCAS UK college entry system.

Full-time

6 Application to CAO