Certificate in Mechanical Analysis and Automation (Online)

Course Summary

Programme Code: SG_EMECH_S06 

The Certificate in Mechanical Analysis and Automation is a one-year 6 subject (30 credit) part-time course which runs over two semesters.  It is a minor award at level 6.  The course covers introductory engineering mathematics, fundamental mechanics, CAD and automation. 

This programme is designed as a qualifier to allow holders of craft qualifications and others with substantial relevant work experience to progress to the Level 7 BEng in Precision Engineering and Design (online).   With the skills and knowledge developed, the Level 7 programme can then be completed with a further two years of online study.

Key Course Information

If you are qualified in certain mechanical trades, or have extensive experience in a technician-like role in manufacturing industry, you will already have learned some of the knowledge and skills covered in the first two years of a BEng Level 7 degree.  

The purpose of this programme is to add the rest of the knowledge and skills that will allow you to proceed directly onto the final stage of the BEng (Online) in Precision Engineering & Design.  The BEng (Online) is a 2 year programme.

Key Course Information

This is online delivery but some attendance at labs and practicals are required.  In some subjects, the practicals are all carried out on one or two days, often called “practical days”.  You will have to attend about two to four days per semester for these practical days.

Applications open 1st February.  Once the programme is full, applicants will be placed on a waiting list

The Certificate in Mechanical Analysis & Automation consists of the following modules  :

•    Introduction to Engineering Maths
•    Introductory Engineering Mechanics
•    Intermediate Engineering Mechanics
•    Pneumatic / Electro-Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems
•    Automation Programming
•    Computer Aided Design and Modelling

Maths and CAD are presented over both semesters. The rest are split equally between each semester.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many days would I need to go to ATU Sligo to do the programme?
Some subjects have a practical aspect.  For example, CIM and Automation Technology Mechatronics requires you to attend some laboratories.  In these subjects, the practicals are all carried out on one day, often called a practical day.  You will have to attend up to two days per semester for these practical days.  

Not all modules have an exam as some of them are 100% continuous assessment.  In some cases, the exams are not entirely online.  Otherwise, you may have to attend to do these exams (typically 1 or 2 exams).  You can also do these exams in exam centres in Dublin and Cork.

2. Do I need to attend lectures?
You are not required to attend for any lectures as all lectures are online.  These are also recorded so you can watch them later.

For questions on entry requirements, see the “Entry Requirements” section.
 

Application Closing Date : 31st August 2022

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have or be undertaking an apprenticeship in toolmaking or in a mechanical trade. While it is expected that the majority of apprentices who undertake this programme will do so in the final year of their apprenticeship, it is permissible to spread the modules over the final two years of apprenticeship.

Consideration will also be given to applicants who have substantial (in excess of three years) experience working in technician-type roles in industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I am a qualified toolmaker or fitter.   Can I access the programme?

You are qualified to enter the programme.

2. I am completing the last 2 years of my apprenticeship in toolmaking or fitting.   Can I access the programme?

You are qualified to enter the programme.  If you complete this programme, but fail to complete your apprenticeship, any application for the following BEng Degree will be considered individually and you may require additional industrial experience to qualify.  See the entry requirements for the Degree in Precision Engineering & Design.

3. I have been working as a production/machine/CNC operator (or similar).  Can I access the programme?

If you have at least three years’ experience working in a technician type role, you may be able to access this programme.  Applications of this nature will be considered individually.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will be equipped to progress onto the final stages of the L7 BEng in Precision Engineering and subsequently be employed as technicians/associate engineers in precision engineering, toolmaking, automation, medical device manufacturing, polymer processing, pharmaceutical/bio-pharma, ICT Hardware, and general mechanical and manufacturing engineering companies.

Further Study

Completion of this programme forms part of the entry requirements for the B,Eng. (Online) In Precision Engineering & Design .

Programme Fees

Course Format

Semester 1

Semester 2