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About University of Galway
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Accessibility & LanguageDigitally Enabled Connected Medical Devices (Diploma)
Diploma in Digitally Enabled Connected Medical Devices
Course Overview
The Diploma in Digitally Enabled Connected Medical Devices prepares students to meet industry demands by enhancing the functionality of modern medical devices. Learners will gain essential knowledge of simple electronic systems used in medical device manufacturing while exploring smart technologies and printed electronics.
With a balance of theory and hands-on experience, students will develop the skills needed to work with cutting-edge medical technologies in a rapidly evolving field.
Applications and Selections
Applications open from the 15th April 2025.
Applications are made online via the University of Galway Applications System. This course is listed under Adult Learning Undergraduate\Postgraduate, CPD, Micro-credentials & Summer School Applications.
Please visit our How to Apply page for Application tips and Supporting Documents information.
NB: Applicants should have a Diploma at NFQ Level 7 of 90 ECTs minimum, in a Science, Engineering or Technical area, or otherwise prove that they satisfy the prerequisites of each of the modules as listed in the course outline section.
Who Teaches this Course
Requirements and Assessment
Assessment is carried out through a combination of assignments, written examinations, and, where applicable, practical laboratory work. Examinations are scheduled at the end of each semester, and each module is assessed individually.
The course is delivered part-time through a blended learning approach. Learners will be provided with online materials for each module, specifically developed for independent study. These will be complemented by recommended readings and interactive resources where relevant. In-person attendance is required for approximately 10 hours per module, typically scheduled on Saturdays.
Each module features a substantial project component and offers opportunities to develop a range of transferable skills throughout the course.
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have a Diploma at NFQ Level 7 of 90 ECTS minimum, in a Science, Engineering or Technical area, or otherwise prove that they satisfy the modules' prerequisites as listed in the course outline section.
Entry requirements for part-time students can be found here (i.e. Age, English language requirements, etc.).
Additional Requirements
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
If you do not meet the standard entry criteria for this course, you may gain entry through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Find out more here.
Duration
1 year, part-time
Next start date
September 2025
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
25
QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes
Closing Date
NFQ level
8
Mode of study
Blended Learning
ECTS weighting
30
Award
Diploma (Minor)
CAO
Course code
Course Outline
The course will consist of two 10 ECTS modules and two 5 ECTS:
10 ECTS modules:
Materials Science & Processes with Project
This module is on the science of materials, from the small (atomic/nano level) through the micro-scale (grains, crystals, fibres etc.) to the macro or large scale (components, devices, etc.). The learner undertakes a project in materials science which includes the consideration of Atomic Bonding; Structure of Materials; Imperfections in Crystalline Solids; Diffusion; Phase Diagrams; Mechanical Properties of Materials; Failure Mechanisms & Corrosion; Processing of Materials – Polymers, Ceramics and Metals.
Design of Engineering Systems with Project
The aim of this course is to introduce the basic theoretical and practical concepts of engineering systems design. It lays out the fundamentals of a wide range of design-related activities. The module describes the major structure of design activity, highlighting the main stages of the design process, their significance, characteristics, requirements and methods of evaluation. The module describes both product and process design, design for high reliability and safety with practical emphasis on important modern problems, such as design for energy efficiency, design for low environmental impact and digitalisation. This module also aims to develop your skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, decision making, written and oral communication, teamwork and creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship.
5 ECTS modules:
Scalable Science Technology & Innovation
This module introduces key insights on scalable science, technology and innovations. It promotes understanding of how science, technology and innovation intertwine. It helps participants to elicit the potential value of technology. A historical evolution of scientific thought and industrial development is first presented. The second part centres on understanding competition, analysing value chains, and the role of geography in innovation. The third part is technical and is focused on key technologies and patent literature. The fourth and fifth parts are strategic to the twin transition towards sustainability and digitalisation as it focuses on the formulation of a business hypothesis using approaches based on customer discovery.
Regulatory Compliance
This regulatory compliance module presents an overview of the regulations governing the development, manufacture and marketing of drugs and medical devices, inclusive of invitro diagnostic devices.
Further Education
Successful candidates may progress in subsequent years to an alternative Diploma or to a Degree in Science and Technology studies, thereby building their skills and qualifications to Level 8 Bachelors award. Find out more here.
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
This course is designed to equip professionals with specialised technical and soft skills for the evolving medical device sector, with a focus on connected, data-driven, and sustainable device design and manufacturing. It has been preparing learners for leadership roles in this field since 2009 and continues to evolve to meet industry demands.
The identified career pathways specific to this course include:
- Medical Device Engineer
- Healthcare Technology Specialist
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
- Medical Device Product Manager
Who’s Suited to This Course
This course will suit professionals in R&D roles within the medical device sector. This course provides the commercial acumen and leadership skills needed to drive innovation and connectivity in the medical device industry by focusing on the digital transformation of manufacturing.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Identify cases where an electronic functionality can be introduced to medical devices.
- Implement a solution incorporating an electronic functionality on a medical device.
- Extract and analyse real-time data from the device for further product improvement.
- Diagnose problems by thinking critically, innovating and collaborating through team-based work.
- Evaluate, through written and oral communication, technical findings concerning connected medical devices.
- Value life-long personal and professional attributes including communication, interpersonal, analytical, enterprising and problem-solving skills in vibrant, technologically advanced economies.
Transferable Skills Employers Value
Job readiness is integrated across all modules through group work, problem-solving assignments, conflict resolution discussions, and leadership opportunities in team projects.
Experiential learning, including immersion in labs and opportunities for work-based projects, helps learners develop essential transversal skills such as teamwork, communication, creativity and innovation.
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
€2,720
Fees: Tuition
€2,650
Fees: Student levy
€70
Fees: Non EU
€3,220
You also may be eligible for the Adult Learning Tuition Scholarship, find out more here.
Find out More
Course Administrator
Tel: 091 493909
Email: sciencetech@universityofgalway.ie
