Course Descriptions Secondary

Course Schedule

Please see below our Spring 2025 secondary school courses. Students attend one course for the six-week programme. There are no virtual courses for this season. No prior knowledge of any of the subjects is necessary. If you have any queries about the courses please contact us at youthacademy@universityofgalway.ie

Course Descriptions

Biomedical engineering: 3D Bioprinting 

Explore this futuristic science which is happening in Galway! 

Yeah, you heard right! We would like to invite you to embark on an exciting journey to create living tissue outside our body. Human tissue is a complex 3D structure composed of multiple cell types embedded in an extracellular matrix. In this course we will explore the multiple cell types present in our body. We'll even learn how to make 3D models of tissues. 

The coolest part? We'll use advanced technology to print living cells, layer by layer, to create real human tissue. This cool technology could help in organ transplantation, drug testing, and disease research. This incredible technique could revolutionize healthcare, and you could be the one who makes this future a reality. 

This course will provide you six exciting sessions with some fun and engaging activities: 

• Understanding multiple cell types and tissue development
• Design and 3D print your own creations
• Bioprinting: tissue to organ, on earth and in space!
• Lab visit: Real bioprinting experience
• A visit to ‘Superhuman’ in Galway City Museum: More to explore 

Are you ready to dive into the world of bioprinting...

This course would be of interest to students who are considering undergraduate degrees in areas such as: Science (Biomedical Science), Biomedical Engineering, Medicine, Science and Technology Studies and much more. Further information on associated careers in each of these areas can be found by clicking on the individual links

Our World and Your Place in it: Ireland’s Past, Present, and Future Through Earth Sciences 

Travel to the past through Ireland’s geological time scale, understand the present with modern climate science, and predict the future using cutting edge scientific methods. 

Each week you will explore a different aspect of natural sciences, which helps you to understand our place on this planet, and how, through science, YOU can make a difference in the world. 

• Discover Ireland’s ancient environments
• Go on a fossil hunt across campus and build a geological timeline based on your findings
• Walk with dinosaurs and find out how you stack up against prehistoric predators
• Follow the lifetime of a water drop from the deep sea to your kitchen sink
• Understand the impact of renewable energies: How many sweets contain the energy to power your house? Could you eat enough to replace Ireland’s renewable energy resources?
• Investigate Carbon, the basis of all life on Earth: Explore Barna from the forest to the sea, and collect scientific measurements of carbon quantities across different environments
• Consider characteristics of successful life forms throughout geological history: Dig through the fossil record and examine biodiversity of the modern world with two museum tours
• Use remote sensing and apply data visualization to real-word scenarios 

Discover the deep connections between the past, present, and future. We all have the ability to make a positive impact on the world, and have fun along the way! 

This course would be of interest to students who are considering undergraduate degrees in areas such as: Science, Earth & Ocean Sciences, Environmental Science , Marine Science, History, and Geography & Geosystems. Further information on associated careers in each of these areas can be found by clicking on the individual links. 

Intersections: Exploring the blending of art, artificial intelligence and the creative process

This six-week program immerses participants in the dynamic intersection of art, technology, and creativity. Through hands-on projects, they will explore the definition of art, experiment with traditional and digital mediums, and use cutting-edge tools to push the boundaries of creative expression. 

The course fosters critical thinking about the evolving roles of humans and machines in art-making while building practical skills in animation and sound design. Through discussions, collaborative projects, and guided exploration, participants delve into themes such as creativity, originality, and the transformative power of technology. From crafting dynamic video sequences with AI-driven tools to composing unique soundscapes using creative coding programs, participants will develop their creative voice and technical confidence. 

Topics covered include: 

• What is art? Historical and contemporary definitions
• Different artistic mediums traditional and digital/technological
• Humans, Machines, and the Creative Process
• AI workshops: potential of AI tools for enhancing visual storytelling and artistic expression
• Gamification and computer music 

By analysing contemporary examples, experimenting with innovative techniques, and reflecting on their experiences, participants will gain a deeper understanding of art in the digital age. By the end of the course, they will have a broadened perspective on art and technology, the inspiration to think boldly about their creative futures, and the foundation for a portfolio of multimedia projects.

This course will suit anyone who has interests in the Arts, technology, and creative industries and is thinking about studies or roles in fields such as multimedia design, animation, digital art, AI-driven storytelling, sound design, academia, or any career that blends technology with artistic innovation.

Marine Science: Explore the Hidden Mysteries of the Deep Sea  

A deep dive into the intriguing realm of marine sciences, and ready to take your first steps as a marine scientist! During each week of the course, you will have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of marine research.  

• Study the complex dynamics of deep ocean circulation, currents, and waves
• The resilience of cold water and tropical corals
• The critical impact of microplastics on fish and marine ecosystems
• Engage in data analysis methodologies to unravel the complexities of marine phenomena using recent survey data
• Precise flow rate calculations, and apply scientific principles to real-world scenarios
• Immerse yourself in experiential learning opportunities through hands-on practical activities, where theoretical knowledge is translated into practical skills, fostering a deeper understanding of marine science concepts
• Witness the marvels of deep-sea exploration through captivating ROV videos, offering a glimpse into the enigmatic depths of the ocean and showcasing cutting-edge research techniques

Join us on this academic voyage of discovery, where intellectual curiosity meets scientific exploration, and together, we strive to broaden our understanding of the marine world and its intricate ecosystem.

Game Makers: Learn to Code with Fun Projects 

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of programming through the creation of engaging and interactive games. Starting with simple projects and progressing to more complex ones, students will explore essential coding concepts in a hands-on and enjoyable way. Each session is dedicated to building a specific game, allowing students to apply their skills immediately. These workshops are designed for learners of all levels, with no prior gaming or programming experience required. 

Outcomes: 

• Understand fundamental game development concepts and coding principles
• Develop problem-solving and logical thinking skills through game design
• Design and implement interactive game elements, including sprites and tile maps
• Test, debug, and refine games to improve functionality and user experience
• Build and customize game levels and environments 

This course would be of interest to students who are considering undergraduate degrees in areas such as: Computer Science and Engineering (Electronic & Computer) Further information on associated careers in each of these areas can be found by clicking on the individual links.