Engineering - Mechanical Engineering (Manufacturing, Process & Automation Systems)

The Mechanical Engineering (Manufacturing, Process & Automation Systems) programme is offered by University College Cork in response to sustained international demand for highly skilled graduates in mechanical engineering for manufacturing and process engineering industries.

Course Outline

On completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Show a thorough understanding of the principles and theoretical bases of modern manufacturing techniques, automation, and production processes
• Identify appropriate manufacturing systems for different production requirements and analyse their performance
• Apply appropriate technology, quality tools, and manufacturing methodology to design, re-design, and continuously improve the manufacturing operations of engineering companies
• Plan, research, execute, and oversee experiments and research projects, critically analyse and interpret data, and effectively disseminate results
• Work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team, be self-motivated, able to work independently, and demonstrate leadership

Modules

Students take 90 credits as follows:

• Part I: 20 credits of core modules and 40 credits of elective modules
• Part II: Dissertation in Mechanical Engineering, to the value of 30 credits, completed over the summer months

Core Modules

• ME6019: Preliminary Research Project (10 credits)
• MG6021: Operations Management (5 credits)
• MG6315: Project Management (5 credits)

Elective Modules

Students must select a total of 40 credits of elective modules from Group A and Group B, with not less than 25 credits from Group A, the balance of credits from Group B, and with no more than 30 credits of elective modules selected in any single semester.

Group A

• ME6002: CAD/CAM (5 credits)
• ME6006: Non-Destructive Testing (5 credits)
• ME6007: Mechanical Systems (5 credits)
• ME6008: Robotics (5 credits)
• ME6012: Advanced Robotics (5 credits)
• CE6024: Finite Element Analysis (5 credits)
• EE4012: Biomedical Design (5 credits)
• EE6061: Industrial Automation and Control (5 credits)
• CS6506: Programming in Python (5 credits)
• CS6507: Programming in Python with Data Science Applications (5 credits)
• NE6015: Data Analytics for Engineering (5 credits)

Group B

• PE6009: Pharmaceutical Engineering (5 credits)
• PE6002: Optimisation and Continuous Process Improvement (5 credits)
• PE6003: Process Validation and Quality (5 credits)
• PE6007: Mechanical Design of Process Equipment (5 credits)
• CE3010: Energy in Buildings (5 credits)
• CE4016: Energy Systems in Buildings (5 credits)
• EE6046: Introduction to Micro Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) (5 credits)

Course Practicalities

Each module typically consists of 24 lectures, 12 hours of continuous assessment, plus additional supplemental reading and study, carried out over one of two 12-week semesters from September to December (Semester 1), or January to March (Semester 2).

Assessment

Individual modules have different methods of assessment but this typically consists of a single end-of-semester examination in December or April/May, plus continuous assessment throughout the relevant semester.

Why Choose This Course

This is the only broad-based master's degree in manufacturing and automation in Ireland.

Requirements

• Candidates must have a minimum Second Class Honours Grade I in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline that should have covered mechanical engineering fundamentals such as mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials.

Fees and Costs

• The EU fee for this course is 8,000.
• The Non-EU fee for this course is 28,000.

How to Apply

1. Check dates: Check the opening and closing dates for the application process.
2. Gather documents: Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the application portal.
3. Apply online: Apply online through the university's application portal.

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Objectives:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of modern manufacturing techniques, automation, and production processes.
• Identify suitable manufacturing systems for various production needs and analyze their performance.
• Apply relevant technology, quality tools, and manufacturing methodologies to design, redesign, and continuously improve manufacturing operations in engineering companies.
• Plan, conduct, and oversee research projects, critically analyze and interpret data, and effectively communicate results.
• Collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams, work independently, and exhibit leadership qualities.

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Outline:

The program is structured as follows:

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Part I:

• Core Modules (20 credits):
• ME6019 Preliminary Research Project (10 credits)
• MG6021 Operations Management (5 credits)
• MG6315 Project Management (5 credits)
• Elective Modules (40 credits):
• Students must choose 40 credits from Group A and Group B, with at least 25 credits from Group A and the remaining from Group B.
No more than 30 credits can be selected in a single semester.
• Group A (all 5 credits):
• ME6002 CAD/CAM
• ME6006 Non-Destructive Testing
• ME6007 Mechanical Systems
• ME6008 Robotics
• ME6012 Advanced Robotics
• CE6024 Finite Element Analysis
• EE4012 Biomedical Design
• EE6061 Industrial Automation and Control
• CS6506 Programming in Python
• CS6507 Programming in Python with Data Science Applications
• Group B (all 5 credits):
• PE6009 Pharmaceutical Engineering
• PE6002 Optimisation and Continuous Process Improvement
• PE6003 Process Validation and Quality
• PE6007 Mechanical Design of Process Equipment
• CE3010 Energy in Buildings
• CE4016 Energy Systems in Buildings
• EE6046 Introduction to Micro Electromechanical Systems (MEMS)

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Part II:

• ME6020 Dissertation in Mechanical Engineering (30 credits): Completed over the summer months.

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Notes:

• Students taking CS6507 (Programming in Python with Data Science Applications) must also take CS6506 (Programming in Python).
• Students taking ME6012 (Advanced Robotics) must also take ME6008 (Robotics).

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Assessment:

• Each module is assessed through a combination of continuous assessment and a final examination.
• Continuous assessment may include in-class tests, laboratory work, design exercises, project work, written reports, and presentations.
• The final examination is typically held in December or April/May.
• Students must achieve an average mark of at least 50% across the taught modules (excluding the Preliminary Research Project) and a minimum of 50% in the Preliminary Research Project to be eligible for the MEngSc degree.
• Students who pass but do not meet the minimum average mark across taught modules or the minimum mark in the Preliminary Research Project may be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Manufacturing, Process & Automation Systems).

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Teaching:

• Each module typically consists of 24 lectures, 12 hours of continuous assessment, and additional supplemental reading and study.
• The program is delivered over two 12-week semesters: September to December (Semester 1) and January to March (Semester 2).
• The exact workload in each semester depends on the chosen modules.
• A significant weekly commitment to the ME6019 Preliminary Research Project is expected throughout both semesters.

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Careers:

• The program prepares graduates for careers in the manufacturing and pharma-chem industries, where there is a high demand for skilled mechanical engineers.
• Graduates will be equipped to develop and implement modern manufacturing, process, and automation systems.

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Other:

• The program is the only broad-based master's degree in manufacturing and automation in Ireland.
• UCC's Connected Curriculum emphasizes the connection between students, learning, research, and leadership.
• Scholarships and bursaries are available for postgraduate students.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.