NUI Galway is to offer a new electronic engineering degree, via the CAO, called the BE. in engineering innovation – electronic. The new four-year course, with the option of a fifth year to achieve a masters, will deliver graduates with the skills and capabilities to start up their own company to design niche electronic products for world-wide markets.
Established companies will also benefit from the availability of a new type of electronic engineer who has the capability to stimulate and support innovation and growth in those organisations.
The multi-disciplinary programme will educate and train students in three distinct areas: electronic engineering, business and finance, and design and innovation. While innovation and entrepreneurship are traditionally seen as innate skills, Professor Gearóid Ó Laighin, head of electronic engineering at NUI Galway, says a cross-disciplinary approach to education can provide a massive boost.
“At NUI Galway, we are constantly seeking new ways to expand the horizons of our engineering graduates. The new course will ensure that in designing new electronic systems and devices, engineers will be equipped to consider both the technical and financial considerations associated with successful product design. This multidisciplinary aspect of the programme will create adaptable engineers with a new skills set capable of anticipating market demands and of responding to the developing needs of our changing society.”
Modern day electronic engineering solutions are integral to a wide range of devices including laptops, MP3 players, pacemaker devices, life-support systems, sustainable energy devices, automotive electronics, mobile phones, robotics, etc.
At NUI Galway, Professor Gearóid Ó Laighin is confident that graduates from this new programme will be key contributors in the design of the next wave of niche electronic devices, creating new Irish companies in the process.
“The current economic climate heralds in a new age of the indigenous entrepreneur, particularly the technologically savvy entrepreneur. Ireland’s economic future requires the creation of Irish owned companies led by engineers who can who through invention and innovation will create economic success.”
For admission to the BE/MEngSc in engineering Innovation - electronic, applicants must satisfy the Matriculation requirements of NUI Galway in six subjects including Irish, English, mathematics and a laboratory science subject. The minimum requirements are the same as for the other engineering degree programmes at NUI Galway and include at least a C3 in higher level mathematics, or a pass in the NUI Galway special entrance examination in mathematics.
