Science & Technology Studies (Degree)

Degree in Science & Technology Studies

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Course Overview
Key Facts
Course Outline
Why Choose This Course?
Course Fees
Find Out More

Course Overview

The Degree in Science & Technology Studies is a part-time course which focuses on the knowledge and skill requirements of high-tech industries. The modular structure is designed with flexibility in mind, enabling students to balance study with work and other commitments and to accumulate credits over a time frame that suits their lifestyle. Learning is delivered via a blend of distance and online resources, on-campus tutorials and labs, and company-based projects.

This course aims to:

provide students with a comprehensive grounding in the theoretical foundations of Science and Engineering
introduce students to areas of applied and specialist knowledge found in today’s high-tech environments
develop important managerial skills such as problem solving, decision making and advanced communication skills

Mode of Study: Blended Learning. Students will be required to attend occasional onsite workshops for specific modules, approximately two workshops per term. All other teaching will be conducted online.

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This course has been approved by Next Level Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 40% for students whose company is a member of their network. For more information, contact:
Next Level Skillnet – Sue Davies at: sue@nextlevel.ie

SUSI Funding
This course is now eligible for funding under the SUSI grants scheme. Please refer to the Course Outline section for information regarding Pathway B or Pathway C to meet the credit workload requirement. You can find more information regarding the SUSI funding here.

Applications and Selections

Applications open from 1st 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 through assignments, written exams and in some cases practical laboratory sessions. Exams take place at the end of each semester. All modules from the programme will be individually assessed.

The course is delivered by blended learning on a part-time basis. Candidates will receive learning materials in online format for each module. Materials will be specifically designed for independent study and will be supplemented by supporting reading material and interactive learning resources where appropriate. The course requires attendance on campus for approximately 10 hours per module, mainly on Saturdays.

Awards: Bachelor of Science in Science & Technology Studies - on successful completion of 20 modules or 120 ECTS.

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 prerequisites of each of the modules as listed in the course outline section.

Additional Requirements

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Duration

2-4 years

Next start date

September 2025

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

25-30

QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes

Closing Date

NFQ level

Level 8

Mode of study

Blended Learning

ECTS weighting

120

Award

CAO

Course code

Course Outline

Pathway A

The Diploma consists of 20 modules (120 credits) to be completed over a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 years (see the module chart for the Diploma/Degree below). The modules on offer include:

Core modules which cover the foundations of Science, Engineering, Management and IT
Electives which allow students to specialise in an area of particular interest to them
Company-based projects to help students apply their learning in the workplace

This course is eligible for funding under the SUSI grants scheme. Students who are funded under this scheme must follow either Pathway B or C below and complete a minimum of 30 credits and a maximum of 50 credits per academic year along the following options:

Pathway B: between 30 – 50 credits per annum (5 years to degree completion);
Pathway C: between 30 – 40 credits per annum (6 years to degree completion)

Students who have successfully completed the Diploma can automatically progress to the Degree in Science & Technology Studies or one of the Specialist Diplomas listed below:

Exemptions: Applicants who have completed accredited study in a relevant area may apply for exemptions. Credit may also be granted for demonstrable experiential learning. Exemptions may be granted up to a maximum of 5 modules in the Diploma cycle. Exemptions are considered by the programme board on a case-by-case basis.

Science & Technology Modules for Degree and Diploma

NB: The following modules can be taken as micro-credentials:

Regulatory Compliance
Human Anatomy & Physiology
Environmental Management for Organisations
Machine Design
Automation 1
Automation 2
Manufacturing Technology

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Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

Management roles in the following sectors: medical devices, biotechnology, scientific services, high-end and specialist manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food science etc.

Who’s Suited to This Course

The course is primarily intended to support those seeking career advancement in a variety of high tech industries such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and manufacturing. It will also appeal to those with a personal interest in Science and Technology.

Learning Outcomes

Transferable Skills Employers Value

In addition to developing content knowledge, this course aims to develop useful skills, known as Professional Transferable Skills (PTS). The importance of PTS is now widely recognised in the workplace. This is especially true of technology-based industries where content knowledge can quickly become outdated and therefore, transferable skills are exceptionally important. The following set of nine skills are considered to be the most important in the context of this course and are particularly advantageous at management levels:

problem-solving
critical thinking
decision-making
oral communication
written communication
team-working
networking
customer-centric skills
creativity, innovation & entrepreneurship

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€4,150 p.a. 2024/25 (€415 per module)*

Fees: Tuition

€4,010 p.a. 2024/25

Fees: Student levy

€140 p.a. 2024/25

Fees: Non EU

€4,700 p.a. 2024/25 (€465 per module + €500 p.a.)

NB: EU Fees are comprised of Tuition + Student Levy. Fees for this course are collected directly by the Centre, please see our staff listing here.

*Next Level Skillnet funding (40% fee subsidy) is available for this course. Students undertaking either Pathway B or C may be eligible for a tuition waiver under the SUSI grants scheme. You also may be eligible for the Adult Learning Tuition Scholarship. Find out more about Fees & Funding.

Find out More

Course Administrator
Tel: 091 494060
Email: sciencetech@universityofgalway.ie

What Our Student Say

Adrian Szlapka | Graduate - Diploma & Degree

I have always been very interested in Science & Technology and a career in Engineering. However, lacking a third-level education prevented me from entering that field. Determined to overcome this obstacle, I developed an ambitious six-year academic plan with the University of Galway. My journey began with the Diploma in Science & Technology Studies (NFQ Level 7) and continued with the Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8). University of Galway's curriculum is thoroughly prepared, offering up-to-date information with a modern approach. The lecturers, many of whom are industry professionals, are very knowledgeable, approachable and helpful. Their real-world experiences enhanced the learning environment, providing valuable industry insights and skills. Both courses significantly advanced my skills and expertise through relevant and engaging content, such as assignments, practical laboratories and research projects. The Diploma provided a solid scientific foundation, which was further expanded during the degree cycle. Throughout my studies, I frequently saw connections between different sciences and subjects, increasing my understanding.

in Connect with Adrian

Donna Ryan | Student

From the moment I started my course, everything ran smoothly. Although it was during the pandemic, all my classes were online and I never set foot on campus during my 4 year degree until today my graduation day. I couldn't believe how time had flown by. The lectures were pre-recorded which was a godsend at times due to family commitments. The workload for the course was very doable and the set up for discussion rooms, break-out rooms was daunting at first but very rewarding as many other students benefited from this type of learning like I did. The course can be done in a shorter time frame than what I did. But that was the best thing about it, the flexibility really helped me navigate through the modules at my own pace. The elective modules I chose were modules I really like to specialise in. I'm now doing a postgraduate Diploma in Process Validation with Regulatory Affairs in pharma. The lectures I had at University of Galway inspired me to pursue further education in something that I was good at and it encouraged me to return to flexible learning again. Thank you to all the staff, lectures for making this possible and building my confidence.

Ewa Ziemichod | Graduate

The option to select elective streams that aligned with my professional interests—specifically in medical device science and automation and control—made the learning experience both interesting and directly relevant to my work. The theoretical knowledge gained during the course was immediately applicable to engineering tasks at my job as a Manufacturing Engineer at a medical device company in Carrick on Shannon. This practical application built my understanding and confidence in performing my duties. The workshops and tutorials were engaging and provided hands-on experience that was invaluable. I highly recommend this course to anyone, as it offers general scientific education and the flexibility to select modules that best suit individual needs while providing comprehensive knowledge and skills in selected disciplines. The program's structure and support systems make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to advance their career while managing other life commitments. The university’s focus on real-world applications and industry relevance ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the current workforce.

in Connect with Ewa

Kenneth Loughrey | Graduate

The course and how it was delivered suited me, even with a family, as the workload was spread out well and you can plan the semesters ahead which means you are set up for success. The course encapsulates so much of the industry I work in and while my background is engineering, it was great to get the insight into other aspects such as regulatory affairs and to also expand my knowledge base on project management. I would recommend this course to anyone currently looking to upskill.

Declan McHugh | Graduate

I had previously attended third level education and it was always my intention to return, however financial responsibilities and lack of belief prevented me from committing. I got to a stage in my life where I finally wanted to have a new career path and be a good role model for my family. The Degree in Science and Technology studies enabled me to study whilst continuing to work full-time. I was surrounded by classmates who understood the perspectives and challenges we faced whilst the classroom and WhatsApp groups became a built-in support network. The flexibility of distance and online learning, and on-campus tutorials helped me alleviate the pressure that comes with balancing existing commitments with course work. The lecturers were very approachable and understanding which gave me the belief and confidence to complete the course and the skills learned have since allowed me to pursue a career in Quality Assurance. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wishes to pursue a new career path, qualify for a promotion, or who is trying to be more competitive in the job market.