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Diploma in Science & Technology Studies

College of Science, Centre for Adult Learning and Professional Development

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Course Overview

The Diploma 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.

Next Level Skillnet Logo

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

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.

 

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



What Our Student Say

Adrian

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
Denis

Denis Lymer |   Graduate

I chose this course as my previous job was coming to an end and I wanted to upskill in an area that interested me. Getting a degree was a long-standing ambition of mine but I had been out of education for many years and was apprehensive about returning as an adult. My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner. The course is flexible in nature and allows students to select subjects they are interested in from a wide-range of modules covering many aspects of Science & Engineering. There are mandatory modules designed to give you a broad grounding in the fundamentals but you can choose to study the subjects that interest you most alongside these. You can complete a course schedule similar to standard college semesters, or tackle less modules as your time allows. The material is taught via a mixture of online learning, classroom tutorials and/or labs at the weekends. I found this a really enjoyable way to study and you have the same, full access to all the campus facilities and benefits as full-time students such as the college library & student assistance groups. I really enjoyed many of the modules. I was a bit nervous about Maths but that ended up being one of my favourite subjects.
Martin

Martin McNamara |   Graduate

The course has a great variety of modules and being able to choose four elective modules, allowed me to tailor some of the course to suit my needs for what I wanted to help in my career. A module which I found to be very useful for me was CAD modelling. The software used in the module was solidworks, which is the same software used in my company. Having never used solidworks before, by the end of the module I had a strong understand of the basics of the software and could create very detailed drawings. I recently moved into a new role in work and having a good knowledge of solidworks was a definite advantage over others going for the same role. This course has broadened my knowledge of the industry and opened more possibilities of where I can take my career. I found the flexibility of being able to complete the course between two and four years great as I was able find a balance between home life, work and education that suited me. The benefit of this course to me was a major factor for me when choosing to follow on and start the degree cycle of this course which I hope will further enhance my career prospects.

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