Postgrad Certificate (via Distance Learning)

Course Type:  1 year part-time via Distance Learning
Places Available: 10
Closing date:  Extended to 21st May 2010
Commences: 27th August 2010

This modular programme provides flexible training tailored to industry needs.   
        
Programme aims and objectives
 

The objective of this course is to introduce students to an interdisciplinary approach to research, which utilises technologies and skills from a wide spectrum of scientific, engineering and clinical disciplines to address fundamental questions originating in biology and medicine. Course contributors include senior academics, industry experts and scientists who are actively engaged in research in all areas of biomedical science. Aimed at individuals employed in the biomedical device and pharmaceutical sectors, this course has been developed to meet the needs of working graduates who wish to upskill or change career direction.

Further Information can be found on our FAQ sheet, click here

Programme delivery
The 6 module course is delivered over one year, based on a blended learning format; a mixture of face-to-face contact (approximately 9 hours per module) in addition to 12-18 hours per week of self-directed study combined with e-tutorial on-line support. Students attend on-campus lectures/tutorials on a Friday afternoon and/or Saturday, approximately once every 5 weeks. The final module consists of practical experimentation, when students obtain hands-on experience of a range of biomedical and engineering techniques. Students are required to attend 3-4 practical sessions during this module.
 
ECTS weighting
 
30 ECTS.
Career Opportunities
Current participants work in medical device and pharmaceutical companies including Boston Scientific, Abbott, Medtronic, Elan, Stryker, Allergen, Advanced Surgical Concepts, Pfizer, and Tyco Healthcare. Completion of this new distance-learning biomedical science programme will broaden career prospects of new graduates and those who have already joined the work force.
 
 
Testimonials from past participants
"I feel the course has enhanced my position in my company, as well as opening up other career opportunities. It is a course well-worth pursuing." Dermot, Senior Process Development Engineer
 

"Returning to college full time was not an option due to work and family committments. This course covers a wide range of subjects that are of interest to me with an emphasis on recent findings, up to the minute research and practical applications." Patricia, Physicist, Portiuncula Hospital

"The programme has given me the chance to study a comprehensive post-graduate course that is relevant to my field of work, while at the same time remain in full-time employment and thereby gather valuable industrial experience." Damien, Manufacturing Engineer

"The masters in distance learning is ideal for anyone who wants to continue with their education without having the full time commitment of other courses that are 9-5, 5 days a week. The modules undertaken during the courses are varied and regardless of a physics or biology background the work is challenging without being too involved. The lab work is excellent-getting to work with new and exciting technolgies?the module notes are excellent and the tutors and lectures are brilliant. The best part is the range of research carried out at the NCBES and REMEDI. The course is excellent (at) providing engineers like myself with the biological know-how and highlights how the two disciplines are needed in today's medical devices." Sinead, Physicist, self-employed

"The nature of the course (Distance learning format) afforded me the opportunity to continue to work part-time in a pharmaceutical company so that I was able to fund the fees and any incurred expenses. I have had no difficulty in assigning the time to study or to attend lectures. I have found the method of delivery of the course to be comprehensive and an extensive web-based support system has enabled me to keep in regular contact with my class-mates and lecturers. I would urge anyone considering attaining a postgraduate qualification who is reluctant to devote a year full-time to a course of study to seriously consider this Distance Learning course. The time has flown by and now I look forward to graduating with a Master's Degree from an NUI." Catherine, Geneticist, Pfizer

"A great course. Hard work, but fun. Well designed to meet the needs of the biomedical/medical device industry. It has added hugely to my understanding of the body, it's function and the requirements of medical devices and the materials which go into them. I feel that it has expanded my horizons hugely." Martin, Senior Quality Engineer, Endoscopy Process Development, Boston Scientific
Admissions

This is a cyclical programme, and will run again in the 2008-09 academic year. Applications to this programme will be made then online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Go to www.pac.ie and look for course code GYS20.  Alternatively follow the links on the postgraduate admissions office page (see below).

Postgraduate Admissions Office

National University of Ireland, Galway,
University Road, Galway, Ireland.
Phone: +353 91 524411, Exts. 3065 / 2102 / 2103;
Fax: +353 91 495552