Course Overview

The Diploma in Intelligent Manufacturing Industry 5.0 provides students with key insights into intelligent manufacturing, with a focus on Industry 5.0. Learners will explore the principles of Industry 5.0 from both a theoretical and practical perspective.

Through hands-on learning, students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to effectively operate and manage enterprises based on intelligent manufacturing and industry 5.0.

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.

RPL logo - recognition of prior learning

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 consists of three 10 ECTS modules:  

Enterprise Simulation for Digital Twinning with Project
Enterprise simulation is the process of building digital models of whole or part of an enterprise with process models, data models, resource models and/or new processes etc. Digital Twinning deals with the process of understanding an enterprise and improving its performance through creation of computer simulations. It is based on knowledge of the enterprise, its infrastructure, technology and human resources. 

Robotics & automated systems with Project 
This module aims to enable the learner to describe core elements of automated systems including Robotics, AGVs and Medical device processing equipment, understand project management techniques used in automation and learn some basic robotic programming.  

Intelligent Data-Based Manufacturing with Project 
The transformation of manufacturing by Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence is inevitable. This module presents a methodology to accelerate ways to smarter, sustainable and digital manufacturing using intelligent manufacturing systems. 

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 students with the essential knowledge and hands-on skills needed to effectively operate enterprises based on intelligent manufacturing and Industry 5.0. 

Industrially relevant assignments and projects form a key part of this course and allow the students the freedom to apply what they have learned to real-life scenarios, including in their workplace. The applied nature of the assignments and lab activities further anchor this learning and prepare the learner for the workplace. 

The identified career pathways specific to this course include: 

  • Smart Manufacturing Engineer
  • Data Analyst in Manufacturing
  • AI Specialist in Manufacturing
  • Digital Transformation Consultant 

Who’s Suited to This Course

The course is designed for working professionals, allowing them to upskill while employed. It helps participants enhance their employability, address skills gaps, and build key competencies. Jobseekers receive career support through sessions with specialists in the Career Development Centre.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Identify cases in an industry where intelligent manufacturing is possible in the near or medium term.
  • Implement a pathway towards intelligent manufacturing and industry 5.0.
  • Analyse how autonomous decision-making is made using real-time data in intelligent manufacturing systems.
  • Diagnose problems by thinking critically, innovating and collaborating through team-based work.
  • Evaluate, through written and oral communication, technical findings concerning Industry 5.0.
  • 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