National University of Ireland, Galway Science Without Borders · 2016-01-27 · National...

National University of Ireland, Galway

Science Without Borders

Module Information Booklet

for Undergraduate Visiting Students

Semester 1, 2013-14

www.nuigalway.ie/international-students/

http://www.nuigalway.ie/international-students/

Aerospace

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME223

Thermodynamics & Fluid

Mechanics 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Introduction to the fundamental aspects of thermofluid mechanics in engineering. Basic language, scope and

applications; thermofluid systems, system boundaries; control volume concept; concepts of mass, momentum, heat,

work, energy and entropy in thermofluid systems, control volumes & cycles; conservation laws; physical &

thermodynamic properties, behaviours and models of substances; fluid forces, statics and dynamics; relating velocity &

pressure; problem-solving techniques, applications.

This module introduces all engineering students to the essential fundamental aspects of thermofluids engineering. The

module covers: physical and thermodynamic properties and models for fluids and solids; identification of systems and

system boundaries; mass, momentum, energy and entropy storage and transfers; application of the laws of

conservation of mass, momentum, energy and entropy to thermofluid systems and cycles; fluid statics and dynamics;

problem-solving techniques.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME301 Fluid Dynamics 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Governing differential equations of flow – continuity, momentum and energy; Navier-Stokes equation. Simplified

concepts, stream function and potential flows. Dimensional analysis and similarity; dimensionless groups; modelling and

experimental fluid mechanics. Laminar, transitional and turbulent flows; Reynolds number regimes in internal and

external flows; the time-averaged equations. The speed of sound, acoustics and compressible flow regimes. Internal

compressible flows; steady adiabatic and isentropic flows; effects of area changes; normal-shock waves; converging

and diverging nozzle flows. Viscous flow in ducts; frictional pressure losses; component losses; diffusers; flow metering.

Viscous external flows; boundary layers; external forces on immersed bodies – drag, lift. Idealised plane-flows; elemental

solutions, superposition, images. Unsteady flows; vortex shedding, aeroacoustics and forcing; added mass.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME347 Mechanical Vibrations 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Basics of vibrations, translational and rotational systems, equivalence of masses and springs, free vibration of undamped

systems, critically-damped, under and over-damped systems, forced vibration of single DOF systems, theory of harmonic

excitation, vibration isolation and vibration measurement, 2-DOF vibrational systems, multi-DOF systems, numerical

methods, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, modal analysis, computational analysis of multi-DOF vibrational problems.

This module analyses the vibration of mechanical systems. Single and multi-degree of freedom mechanical systems are

modelled in free and forced vibration, enabling the student to understand the concepts of harmonic vibration, viscous

damping, resonance, natural frequencies, mode shapes and vibration measurement and suppression. Coursework is

supplemented by laboratory experiments and computational modelling

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME424 Energy Conversion 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Review of conduction and radiation heat transfer. Review of thermodynamics. Convection heat transfer – physical

mechanisms, development and use of empirical correlations. Review of the Rankine cycle and modifications

(regeneration and reheat). Review of air standard cycles. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration.

Renewable energy technologies. Case study for integrated application of thermodynamics and heat transfer tools in

design/analysis of complex energy technology (e.g. gas turbine engine, hybrid electric vehicle). Design/analysis project:

each student will carry out a detailed analysis or design on a chosen energy technology, following the model of the

above case study. Laboratory assignments: internal combustion engine, experiment in convection heat transfer, CFD

computation of convective heat transfer.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME425 Project 10 Full year 2 Project

Based at NUI Galway, this programme aims to provide the students with a specific research project, and to

equip them with the skills necessary for their research career. On successful completion of this subject, the

student will have demonstrated his/her ability to:

1) Give an academic level presentation on their research project outlining the research project

background, a reflection of skills and knowledge acquired, a reflection on their contribution to the project.

2) Complete a significant engineering project that involves one or more of the following aspects: literature

searching and understanding, design and analysis, experimental testing, mathematical modelling,

biomaterials characterisation, product manufacture, process development.

3) Produce a comprehensive and substantial engineering project report, which describes project

objectives, background, test methods, results, discussion and conclusion.

4) Give a presentation supported by the use of an overhead projector, at an early stage of the project.

Produce a GANTT chart to support this early presentation.

5) Maintain a laboratory book throughout the project.

Biodiversity and Bioprospection

Module

Code

Module Description Semester ECTS Examination Arrangements

TI235 Biogeography 1 5 CA , 2 hour examination

Course Description

This class provides an introduction to the study of biogeography. Bridging the fields of biology and geography,

biogeography is the study of the distribution of plants and animals across the Earth. In this course, we will be concerned

with identifying how historical, physical, and biological factors affect present and past distributions of individuals,

species, communities, ecosystems, and biomes. The actions of humans are a critical force impacting other species, and

the human influence on past, present and future species distributions is a central topic in this module.

Aims and Objectives

In addition to offering a survey of the basics of biogeography via class lectures, this course also aims to introduce

students to various methodologies used in biogeographic research. Hands-on field, lab, and data analysis exercises will

allow students to put learned concepts into practice and give students experience working with the techniques used by

biogeographers.

Learning Outcomes

* Comprehension of the basic principles of biogeography as a discipline

* A developed capacity to apply the field methodologies and data analysis techniques used in biogeography

* Critical understanding of human impacts on species distributions and modern conservation strategies

Code Module Title Semester ECTS Examination Arrangements

ZO207 Comparative and adaptive physiology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: Physiology is about the physics and chemistry of life. This course deals with specific aspects of

animal physiology that include immunology, the body's defence mechanisms against pathogens and tumors, sexual

reproduction and development, and special physiological adaptations of animals. The course will also include

comparative physiology, that is how did evolution generate different physiological mechanisms to cope with specific

challenges faced by different species, and what have been the forces driving changes in physiology.


ZO317 Evolutionary Biology 1 5 Two hour examination

This module is focused on key concepts in evolutionary biology including the mechanisms operating on molecules, on

populations and those involved in the formation of new species. It will also include topics such as evolutioary

repatterning of development, evolutionary constraint and bias and evolutionary innovation.

On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:

1. Describe the evolutionary forces acting on alleles and genotypes.

2.Explain what is meant by molecular evolution and how it is employed to study evolution of species.

3 Describe in detail different types of speciation, including detailed discussion on the degree and type of isolation,

selection and genetic mechanisms at play.

4. Describe the evolutionary origin of development and of metazoans

5. Explain the different modes in which development can be repatterned during evolution

6. Discuss how developmental processes can affect the direction of evolution

7. Display enhanced skills in writing essays on selected key concepts of evolutionary biology


ZO318

Geographic Information Systems and

Biostatistics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module is focused on using data analysis to understand the environment. It includes an introduction to statistical

analyses using examples from field ecology. There is also an introduction to mapping ecological data using geographic

information systems (GIS).


1.Demonstrate an understanding of the different types of data used in ecology and geographic analyses

2. Explore data using descriptive statistics and apply inferential statistics

3. Understand the role of statistics in planning, validating and communicating the findings of ecological research

4. Have an understanding of databases for managing information

5. Be able to create, edit and analyse spatial data using geographic information systems

6. Produce maps for visualisation and interpretation of ecological data

Biotechnology


BO201 Molecular and Cell Biology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: This course aims to provide students with the key molecular concepts of the biology of living cells.

The basic structure and organisation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells will be described, with an emphasis on

understanding the similarities and differences between cells from these main domains of life. The composition, structure

and importance of the four major groups of biomolecules will be reviewed. Fundamental topics on genomes and

genome organization will also be covered.

Engineering and Other Technological Areas

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title ECTS

Taught in


Semester Examination Arrangements

Biomedical

Engineering BME328 Principles of Biomaterials 5 1 1 2 hour exam

The course is designed to provide hands-on experience on biomaterials design; fabrication; and in vitro and in vivo

assessments. It provides experience in experimental skills for the biomedical engineer of the future.

The in class sessions will cover how to write a scientific report and how to conduct data analysis.

The laboratory practicals will cover between others the following: biopolymer extraction and characterisation; principles

of biomaterials design and fabrication; in vitro and in vivo assessment.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Biomedical

Engineering BME326 Biomedical Design 15 Full year Spring

Continuous

Assessment

In this module students complete a significant design project in the area of biomedical engineering and medical

device technology. This module covers the fundamentals of engineering planning and decision making, the

mathematical and analytical tools required, and the subject matter employed in using these tools. These fundamentals

are applied to a variety of biomedical engineering and medical technology design situations. The module involves the

application of mathematics, materials sciences and engineering mechanics to problems in the analysis and design of

mechanical, electromechanical elements and the interaction of such elements with the human body. The module

takes into account consideration of product specification, manufacturing methods, safety and economic factors.

Detailed design of a selection of components is covered based on analytical solutions, empirical techniques and test

results. The third year design project is used to integrate in one project a number of elements that the students have

acquired through 1st, 2nd and 3rd year including: workshop practice, design, CADD, mechanics of solids, mechanical

analysis and design, materials, thermofluids, electrical instrumentation, communication and report writing skills. The

module also includes a dedicated CAE (including CADD) component.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Biomedical

Engineering BME401

Biomedical Engineering

Individual Project 15 Full year 2

Continuous

Assessment

In this module students complete a major senior level project in biomedical engineering that involves one or more of the

following aspects: design and analysis, experimental testing, mathematical modelling, materials characterisation,

product manufacture, process development

All PEP students are required to give a presentation on the work experience they have gained while on placement. The

presentation is given when the student returns to the university and the audience consists of class members and

academic staff. PEP students are also required to submit a written report in a format specified for them before going on

placement.

Each student is assigned an individual project at the start of the academic year based on work done during industrial

placement or topics assigned by staff members. Assessment is based on a comprehensive final report and oral

presentation of the project results to the class and staff.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Biomedical

Engineering BME402

Computational Methods in

Engineering Analysis 10 1 1 2 hour exam

This module provides a comprehensive presentation of the finite element (FE) method and computational fluid

dynamics (CFD), both of which form critically important parts of modern engineering analysis and design methods.

Details of theoretical formulations, numerical implementations and case study applications are presented. The

descriptive and analyical content in the lectures is supported by computer laboratory practicals using commercial

analysis code (both FE and CFD).

Development of finite element equations from a governing functional. Basic element shapes and associated

interpolation functions. Formulation of the element stiffness matrices and load vectors for elasticity problems.

Development of higher order elements, including curved elements and numerical integration. Natural coordinates Real

space mapping and the calculation of spatial gradients. Structure and organisation of a finite element computer

programme. Finite element formulations for thin beam bending and thermal conductivity problems.

Development of conservation equations for mass, momentum and energy for the finite volume method. Selection of

appropriate boundary conditions, discretisation techniques and solution methods for a range of thermofluid problems.

Structure and organisation of a CFD computer programme. Application of course content to modelling a wide range of

steady-state, dynamic, mixing and heat transfer problems.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Biomedical

Engineering BME405 Tissue Engineering 5 1 1 Continuous Assessment

This course integrates the principles and methods of engineering and life sciences towards the fundamental

understanding of structure-function relationships in normal and pathological mammalian tissues especially as they relate

to the development of biological tissues to restore, maintain, or improve tissue/organ function. The course builds on the

three principal components of tissue engineering namely, biomaterials, cells and signalling mechanisms. Concepts of in

vivo and in vitro colonisation, biocompatibility, bioreactors, standards, ethics and regulation are then introduced.

Laboratory techniques of tissue culture are also integrated within the course and the students perform hands-on cell

culture assays. A individual project is undertaken for the development of a tissue engineering construct in one of the

following areas: bone, nerve, heart and skin.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Biomedical

Engineering BME503 Biomechanics 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This module entails the study of fundamental biomechanics concepts ranging from bio-solid mechanics to bio-fluid

mechanics. Topics covered include from mechanics of joints in the human body, biomechanics of soft tissue, bone

biomechanics, cardiac biomechanics, biomechanics of blood flow and biomechanics of muscle.

Fundamentals of solid mechanics (stress, strain, constitutive formulations); Principles of statics; Analysis of the mechanical

behaviour of joints in the human body; Viscoelasticity of soft tissue; Microstructure of bone; Fatigue and fracture of

bone; Bone remodelling; Structure of muscle; Biomechanics of muscle contractility; Biomechanics of the cardiac cycle;

Windkessel model for pressure in compliant vessels; Newtonian flow in elastic vessels; Non-newtonian flow of blood;

Unsteady Bernoulli’s equation and the mechanics of heart value closure; Biomechanics of atherosclerosis and the effect

of lesions on blood flow; Cellular cytoskeletal structures and mechanotransduction.

Laboratory Practicals

1. Determination of the mechanical properties (Young’s modulus, yield stress, UTS) of cortical bone using an

INSTRON servo-hydraulic testing machine. Determination of the fracture toughness of notched cortical bone

specimens.

2. Heart dissection and extraction of aortic tissue. Determination of the orthotropic properties and compliance of

an ovine aorta using a ZWICK biaxial testing machine.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE223

Computer Aided Design and

Surveying 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This module examines both computer aided drawing and surveying. The work on CAD represents an extension of the

material that is covered in Engineering Graphics in the first year. The surveying portion includes both coursework and

practical assignments. In the latter, the students, working in teams, produce a drawing of an area that they surveyed.

Surveying

This component consists of integrated lectures and laboratories that include:

• Tape and offset surveying

• Adjustments of the level and theodolite

• Levelling. Traverse surveying

• Electronic Distance Measurement

• Field work

AutoCAD

This is a laboratory based course and all students are required to attend the computer based laboratories. Students must

prepare general arrangement and sectional drawings of reinforced concrete slabs, beams and columns. Four drawings

must be produced using AutoCAD and submitted on a single A1 sheet at different scales.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE225 Engineering Materials 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This is an introductory module on engineering materials and it is common to all engineering student cohorts. The

coursework topics include lectures on (i) the fundamental behaviour of the wide spectrum of materials used across the

differing engineering disciplines, (ii) an introduction to the microstructure of metals and (iii) concepts of strength of

materials such as stress, strain, loads. These concepts are supplemented by a number of laboratory assignments.

Coursework

Behaviour and use of engineering materials including metals, timber, polymers, fibre reinforced composites, concrete

and ceramics

Equilibrium

Concepts of stress and strain

Axially loaded members, pin-jointed trusses

Bending moment and shear force for beams

Laboratories

1) Theoretically and experimentally evaluate forces in a structure under two different loading conditions:

a. using micrometer/callipers;

b. understanding of the strain gauges;

c. converting units;

d. comparing theoretical and experimental data;

e. writing conclusions of the experiment and identify sources of error.

2) Examine properties of mild steel based on the tensile test experiment:

a. using micrometer/callipers;

b. converting units;

c. drawing graphs for better data representation;

d. comparing theoretical and experimental data;

e. writing conclusions of the experiment and identify sources of error

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Civil

Engineering CE227 Strength of Materials 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

This module extends the strength of materials concepts that were introduced in the Engineering Materials module. All

students are required to also complete a number of laboratory experiments that illustrate the theoretical concepts from

the coursework. In addition, the students are required to complete a number of computational laboratories in which

they use a structural analysis package.

Coursework

• Moment of Inertia

• Simple torsion

• Shear force and Bending moment diagrams

• Simple bending theory

• Shear stresses

• Stress/strain transformations and Mohr circle

• Inelastic behaviour of beams

• Slope and deflection of beams

• Buckling of pin-jointed members

• Structural connections

Experimental Laboratories

1 Measure strains in a beam and with strain gauge rosettes and calculate bending stresses

2 Measure and calculate deflection of the simply supported beam under the central load:

3 Evaluate theoretical and experimental buckling load of struts:

Computational Laboratories

Each student must attend and complete computational analysis laboratories during which they must learn to use the

CADS analysis package and they must carry out the following:

Lab 1: Determination of the reactions and member forces on a girder when subjected to an imposed load.

Lab 2: Given dead and imposed loads for a flat roof truss and lattice girder, plot the displaced shape and the axial

force distribution.

Lab 3: Given dead, imposed and wind loads on a structure, plot the displaced shape, the axial and shear force

distribution and bending moment diagrams.

Lab 4: A computer based examination in which students individually analyse a structure.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE335 Engineering Hydraulics II 10 1 1 2 hour exam

This module will cover fundamental areas of engineering hydraulics; theorical content will be augmented by a detailed

group design project.

Open channel flow

• Pipe flow

• Pipe flow with friction

• Reservoir hydraulics

• Pumps

• Water distribution systems

• Sewer design

• Culvert design

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE336 Environmental Engineering 10 1 1 2 hour exam

This module covers: characterisation and measurement of water parameters, regulations, septic tank design and on-line

resources used in the planning applications, 'passive' wastewater treatment using constructed wetlands and sand filters

and issues of public acceptance; wastewater and water treatment at municipal-scale, including growth and food

utilisation kinetics, attached and suspended culture systems; agricultural wastewater treatment, and greenhouse gas

emisssions measurement.

Course Work

General introduction to concepts (characteristics, measurement of parameters, regulations); Septic tank design

(internet resources, percolation test, processes, planning applications); Constructed wetlands; Filtration (design criteria,

P adsorption isotherms); Natural purification processes (physical, biochemical); Dissolved oxygen model; Wastewater

treatment (population equivalents; grit removal, sedimentation tanks; growth and food utilisation, kinetics, suspended

culture system, attached culture systems); Water treatment (coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection);

Agricultural engineering (soil quality vs. spreading, volumes produced, legalisation, loading rates); Greenhouse gas

emissions (measurement, importance).

Laboratories

1. Nutrient removal

2. Determination of the oxygen transfer coefficient

3. BOD test,

4. Suspended solids test

5. COD test

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Civil

Engineering CE340 Solids & Structures 10 Full year 1 & Spring 2 hour exam

In this module the students consider more advanced topics on structural behaviour and use a variety of methods to

solve for bending moments and shear forces in different structures. The analytical methods are supplemented by a

number of computational analysis laboratories. Soild mechanics topics such as torsion, bending, shear and buckling

are also considered in addition to dynamics. Some of the theoretical concepts are also illustrated through laboratory

experiments.

Theory of Structures

Structural Form; Qualitative Structural Analysis; Computer-based Structural Analysis; Moment Distribution Method;

Principle of Virtual Work;

Approximate methods of analysis applied to frames. Analysis of multi-storey frames by division into free bodies and use

of the inflection points, from where analysis by equilibrium can proceed; Analysis of statically indeterminate trusses by

approximate methods; Defining the duality of structural analysis: structural approach and flexibility approach. Study of a

propped cantilever to enable the flexibility and stiffness methods to be compared. Implementation of the flexibility

method and application to frames and trusses to calculate internal forces and deflections; Construction of influence

lines for beams, parabolic arches and trusses; Proof of several theorems on influence lines. Application of moment

distribution to a variety of frames.

Mechanics of Solids

Properties of Area: moment of inertia, parallel axis theorem, product of inertia; Torsion: basic equations, varying cross

section, rectangular shafts, thin tubular sections, open sections; Beam Bending: basic equations, combined bending

and direct stress, unsymmetrical bending, bending of composite beams

Deflection of Beams: deflection equations, differential equation solution, moment area method; Transverse Shear in

Beams: shear stress expression, different cross section configurations, shear centre; Stress-Strain Transformation: analysis

of stress and strain, Mohr circle of stress/strain, principal moments of inertia, strain gauges; Energy Considerations: strain

energy, axial, bending, shear, torsion; Inelastic Problems: fundamentals of plastic behaviour, torsion beyond the yield

point, plastic hinge; Elastic Instability: Various end conditions; Eigenvalue Problems; Beam-Column behavior; Vibrations:

Single degree of freedom structures; Vibrations of beams and shafts;

Computational Analysis

Use of a structural analysis package to analyse a number of continuous beam and frame problems

Laboratory Experiments

Students work in groups to carry out three experiments on both model and full scale structures. These experiments are:

- Plastic collapse of portal frames.

- Vibrations of a simply supported beam.

- Tests on reinforced concrete model beams.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE341 Structural Engineering Design 10 1 1 2 x 2 hour exam

This module will focus on design of Concrete and Steel Structures by studying the following: Introduction to allowable

stress design and limit states design philosophies. Overview of modern LSD steel and concrete codes, principally

Eurocodes 2 and 3. Design simple steel structural members including ties, struts, beams, connections, truss roofing

systems.Design one-way reinforced concrete spanning slabs, singly and doubly reinforced concrete beams, columns

and pad foundations.

Design of Concrete and Steel Structures

Identify appropriate code clauses to apply to various design problems. Study the behaviour and design of steel ties,

including eccentric loading. Local buckling behaviour and the classification of steel sections. Behaviour and design of

steel beams and columns, including design transition curves, initially crooked members and residual stresses. Behaviour

and design of connections.

Stress analysis of reinforced concrete cross-sections. Design and detail reinforced concret one-way spanning slabs,

singly and doubly reinforced beams, columns (braced, short), pad foundations. Produce reinforced concrete drawings

and bar schedules.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE342 Structures I 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This module represents a continuation of the Strength of Materials module from 2nd year. The students are exposed to a

number of structural analysis techniques for common Civil Engineering structures. They will aslo use a structural analysis

package to analyse relevant structures.

Theory of Structures

Structural Form; Qualitative Structural Analysis; Computer-based Structural Analysis; Moment Distribution Method;

Principle of Virtual Work;

Approximate methods of analysis applied to frames. Analysis of multi-storey frames by division into free bodies and use

of the inflection points, from where analysis by equilibrium can proceed; Analysis of statically indeterminate trusses by

approximate methods; Defining the duality of structural analysis: structural approach and flexibility approach. Study of a

propped cantilever to enable the flexibility and stiffness methods to be compared. Implementation of the flexibility

method and application to frames and trusses to calculate internal forces and deflections; Construction of influence

lines for beams, parabolic arches and trusses; Proof of several theorems on influence lines. Application of moment

distribution to a variety of frames.

Mechanics of Solids

Properties of Area: moment of inertia, parallel axis theorem, product of inertia; Torsion: basic equations, varying cross

section, rectangular shafts, thin tubular sections, open sections; Beam Bending: basic equations, combined bending

and direct stress, unsymmetrical bending, bending of composite beams

Deflection of Beams: deflection equations, differential equation solution, moment area method; Transverse Shear in

Beams: shear stress expression, different cross section configurations, shear centre; Stress-Strain Transformation: analysis

of stress and strain, Mohr circle of stress/strain, principal moments of inertia, strain gauges; Energy Considerations: strain

energy, axial, bending, shear, torsion; Inelastic Problems: fundamentals of plastic behaviour, torsion beyond the yield

point, plastic hinge; Elastic Instability: Various end conditions; Eigenvalue Problems; Beam-Column behavior; Vibrations:

Single degree of freedom structures; Vibrations of beams and shafts;

Computational Analysis

Use of a structural analysis package to analyse a number of continuous beam and frame problems

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Civil

Engineering CE461 Civil Engineering Project 10 Full year 2

Continuous

Assessment

This is the major project that is completed by students in the final year of their undergraduate programme. Projects are

generally conducted in pairs although there may be some instances of individual projects. The project is defined at the

start of the academic year on some Civil Engineering topic and students have the full academic year to complete.

Students also complete a number of other communications based assignments.

Each student is required to carry out an engineering project on a particular engineering topic of their choice. The

student is required to submit a technical engineering report detailing the background and aims of the project, the work

carried out as part of the project and the findings of this work including discussion and conclusions. Each student is also

required to give an oral presentation on their project during which they must also field technical questions on their work

from members of staff.

It should be noted that students may carry out an individual project or may work with a second student and carry out a

joint project.

Communications/Professional Engineer

The students will receive guest lectures on aspects of the engineer in society with are deemed to be important to the

students as they develop into professional engineers. The topics include (i) Health and safety, (ii) Engineering ethics (as

set out by Engineers Ireland), (iii) Freedom of information and plagiarism, (iv) Effective leadership and teamwork and (v)

The engineer as expert witness. Students are required to complete reflective essays on leadership and teamwork,

ethics, the engineer as expert witness and overseas technical aid. In addition, they have to complete an on-line exam

which assesses their ability to identify instances of plagiarism.

Students are also required to prepare written and oral presentations on their work placement that they complete at the

end of 3rd year.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE462

Coastal and offshore

Engineering 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Wavemaker theory: mathematical model to simulate the creation of waves in a wave flume: progressive and

evanescent.

Tidal dynamics oceanic and local

Properties of ocean and coastal waves: length, celerity, water particle orbits, dynamic pressure, shoaling, refraction,

breaking, and diffraction. Ports and harbours. Evaluate the wave forces on a seawall due to breaking- or non-breaking

waves. Design a breakwater. Estuarine processes. Sediment transport, coastal protection.

Properties of ocean and coastal waves: length, celerity, water particle orbits, dynamic pressure, shoaling, refraction,

breaking, and diffraction. Ports and harbours. Evaluate the wave forces on a seawall due to breaking- or non-breaking

waves. Design a breakwater. Estuarine processes. Beach processes, sediment transport, coastal protection. Tidal

dynamics.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE464

Design of Sustainable

Environmental Systems I 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This module introduces the theory supporting, design, maintenance and operation of waste and wastewater treatment

systems. Topics covered will include wastewater and waste composition and characteristics, design of treatment

facilities, energy efficiency and production, control and monitoring techniques that are used in these systems and

current state of the art. The module discusses the engineers responsibility to the public and the environment when

designing and operating such faiclities.

In this module the theory behind the design of waste, wastewater and sludge treatment systems is discussed. Particular

attention is focused on activated sludge and biofilm-based wastewater treatment systems, nutrient removal from

wastewaters, biotechnologies for waste treatment, and thermal treatment technologies for waste treatment. Energy

efficiency and recovery are discussed as is the engineer’s role to society and the environment when designing and

operating such facilities. The module is examined through written exams and project/essay work.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Civil

Engineering CE471 Project Management 5 1 1 2 hour exam

The module content includes: Project and project management characteristics; Stakeholders; Management and

organisational concepts; Project life-cycle and its characteristics; Project financing, mechanisms for project financing

and measures of project profitability; Project planning; Project delivery/procurement systems; Networks, planning,

scheduling and resource allocation; Computer based network analysis; Estimating; Project monitoring and control;

Project changes, claims & disputes; Quality.

Project and project management characteristics;

•Project stakeholders;

• Management and organisational concepts;

• Project life-cycle and its characteristics;

• Project financing, mechanisms for project financing and measures of project profitability;

• Project planning;

•Project delivery/procurement systems;

• Organisation structure diagrams;

• Networks, planning, scheduling and resource allocation;

• Computer based network analysis;

• Estimating;

• Project monitoring and control;

• Project changes, claims and disputes;

• Classification and distribution of costs;

• Quality.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE230 Electrical Circuits & Systems 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Review of DC and AC circuit analysis. Transform networks and transient analysis. Transfer functions. Interpretation of

pole-zero maps. Frequency response of linear systems. BODE plots and system identification. Block diagram analysis.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE231

Electronic Instrumentation and

Sensors 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Review of systems. Circuit analysis and theorems. Measurement and instrumentation. Sensors, actuators, transducers.

Sensed quantities. Passive, active sensors. Resistors, capacitors, inductors as sensing elements. Practical sensor

applications. Sensor characteristics. Frequency response. Noise and errors in measurements. Signal conditioning and

filtering. Analogue and digital sensors. Analogue-digital conversion. Display of sensed values. Data acquisition and

instrument control using a computer.

Review of systems: inputs, outputs, system blocks. Overview of electrical circuit analysis and theorems. Introduction to

measurement and instrumentation systems. Sensors, actuators and transducers. Sensed quantities. Passive sensors and

active sensors. Resistors, capacitors and inductors as sensing elements. Practical sensor applications (e.g.

galvanometer, Wheatstone bridge). Sensor characteristics. Frequency response. Noise, interference and errors in

measurements. Signal conditioning and filtering. Analogue and digital sensors. Analogue-to-digital conversion and

digital-to-analogue conversion. Analogue and digital display of sensed values. Data acquisition and instrument control

using a computer.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE344

Communication Systems

Engineering 5 1 1 2 hour exam

In this module, students will study how various elements of communication technology are used to deliver a variety of

communication systems and networks. Topics studied include information compression, source coding, impact of noise

on communication links, channel coding, OSI 7 layer model, taxonomy of transmission technologies, physical layer, line

coding, data link layer protocols, networking layer, circuit and packet switched data networks,

connectionless\connection oriented services, IP, ATM

In this module, students will study how various elements of communication technology are used to deliver a variety of

communication systems and networks. Topics studied include information compression, source coding, impact of noise

on communication links, channel coding, OSI 7 layer model, taxonomy of transmission technologies, physical layer, line

coding, data link layer protocols, networking layer, circuit and packet switched data networks,

connectionless\connection oriented services, IP, ATM

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE345 Digital Systems II 5 1 1 2 hour exam

MOS semiconductor integrated circuit technology. MOS digital logic building blocks. Mask layout, simulation. Area,

power, timing and performance considerations.

Combinational and sequential component building blocks and description formats. Digital system structured design and

documentation. intro to HDL (capture, testbenching, simulation, logic synthesis). Electronic Design Automation tools.

FPGA technology. Design and implementation of modular digital system. Interfacing.

CMOS technology analysis and fabrication for common digital logic component building blocks. Design, HDL capture,

simulation, logic synthesis, FPGA implementation and hardware test of medium complexity digital systems.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE346 Electrical Power and Machines 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Laws of electromagnetism, magnetic circuits, magnetic materials

Transformers; equivalent circuits and transformer tests

DC generators & motors: equivalent circuits and tests, speed control

3-phase systems, per unit system

Introduction to induction motors

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE352 Linear Control Systems 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This module includes lectures & laboratory classes on control systems modelling, analysis & design techniques. Methods

include the Nyquist stability plot, the Nichols chart and the root-locus, along with an introduction to proportional,

derivative, integral & PID controller design. Lab classes illustrate applications in DC motor position & speed control,

simulated process control and feedback amplifier design.

Modelling of feedback control systems. Polar plots & Nyquist stability. Performance specifications. Root-Locus. M-circles

and the Nichols chart. Analogue controller design: PID, phase-lead compensation. Practical examples of the

implementation of control systems.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE355 Project & Professional Studies 10 Full year Spring

Continuous

Assessment

All students are required to complete a group project to design and build a electrical\electronic\software system

which addresses a specific problem identified and designed through interaction with partner community organisations.

Project deliverables are supported by a series of lectures in communication skills, professionalism, ethics, health and

safety, intellectual property, teamwork, continued professional development (CPD), many of which are delivered by

guest speakers from industry.

All students are required to work in a project group to design and build a working prototype of an

electrical\electronic\computer engineering systems which addresses a specific problem specification. This module will

be completed by the student groups working on problems identified by community partner organisations. In addition to

the technical elements of the project, all groups are also required to deliver a written report, poster presentation and

oral presentation detailing the project work. Project deliverables are supported by a series of lectures in communication

skills, professionalism, ethics, health and safety, intellectual property, teamwork, continued professional development

(CPD), many of which are delivered by guest speakers from industry.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE357 Signals and Communications 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This modules covers concepts and techniques for analysis and processing of signals, and system analysis and design,

with particular emphasis on topics relevant to the study of communication systems. Fourier series and Fourier transform.

Analysis and design of signal processing systems, passive and active filters. Random signal analysis, energy and power

spectral density. Sampling and quantization. Introduction to Digital Signal Processing.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE443 BE Project 10 Full year 2

Continuous

Assessment

Each student must complete an individual project in a relevant area of E&EE engineering under the supervision of an

academic staff member.

The project is assessed using a number of project deliverables:

• Initial report (submitted after 1 month),

• Progress report (submitted at the start of Semester 2),

• Final project report,

• Oral project presentation,

• Q&A session following oral presentation,

• Project demonstration,

• Project notebook (maintained throughout project),

• Project web-page

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE445 Digital Signal Processing 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This modules covers concepts and techniques for discrete-time analysis and processing of signals, and system analysis

and design.

Discrete-time systems, time-domain analysis. The z-Transform. Frequency-domain analysis, the Fourier Transform. Digital

filter structures and implementation. Spectral analysis and filtering with the DFT/FFT, practical and computational

considerations. Digital filter design: IIR, FIR, window methods, use of analogue prototypes.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE448 Power Electronics 5 1 1 2 hour exam

AC-DC conversion, phase controlled rectification.

DC-DC conversion; switch mode and quasi-resonant power supplies.

Power factor correction; active and passive.

Thermal design.

DC-AC conversion, PWM, bridge and resonant inverters.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE451 System on Chip Design I 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Structured design workshop: design, HDL (capture, testbenching, simulation, logic synthesis), FPGA implementation and

test of a modular, multi-component embedded digital system. Follows a structured design and documentation method,

and applies related Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools. Modules include: network and user I/O, synchronisation,

finite state machines, handshaking, memory control, datapath handling, basic signal processing tasks.

Embedded FPGA System on Chip design and implementation.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Electrical &

Electronic

Engineering EE453

Telecommunications Software

Applications 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This module is designed to provide students with a detailed knowledge of the application of advanced software both

within telecommunication networks and on user devices. Topics which will be examined include structure and operation

of PSTN, intelligent network services, design and dimensioning of telephony networks, cellular network technologies,

structure of cellular network, operations and services within cellular networks, user device app development, mobile

phone based sensing

This module is designed to provide students with a detailed knowledge of the application of advanced software both

within telecommunication networks and on user devices. Topics which will be examined include structure and operation

of PSTN, intelligent network services, design and dimensioning of telephony networks, cellular network technologies,

structure of cellular network, operations and services within cellular networks, user device app development, mobile

phone based sensing

Laboratory session will include:

TSA-1 : Dimensioning of telephony network elements

TSA-2 : Introduction to Android application development

TSA-3 : Android apps: GPS sensor utilisation

TSA-4 : Accelerometer, battery and other sensors on Android platforms

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Energy EG400

Advanced Energy Systems

Engineering 5 1 1 Continuous Assessment

This module will introduce the fundamental engineering principles behind current and future energy technologies

including combustion, gasification and electrochemistry, as well as economic analysis methods. These fundamentals will

be combined with previously-acquired techniques to analyse complex energy systems such as conversion technologies

(wind, solar, geothermal, waste-to-energy, CCS) and infrastructures (bioenergy, natural gas, hydrogen, water).

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering IE309 Operations Research 5 1 1 2 hour exam

1. Introduce students to the mathematical modelling approach to managerial decision making

2. Understand and appreciate the role of management science techniques in solving real life engineering and

business problems

3. Adopt a scientific approach/philosophy to analyzing real life engineering management problems and

generate optimal solutions

4. Have a sound base in the fundamentals of quantitative management science techniques and be able to

apply these in problem solving

5. Develop students ability to analyse data in support of strategic decision making and contribute to decision

making by advising management using the mathematical models introduced on this module

Mathematical modelling approach to managerial decision making

Linear programming

Sensitivity Analysis and scenario planning

Integer Programming

Transportation & Transhipment

Assignment

Network Flow Models

Multi-criteria Decision Making

Decision Analysis

Project Management, stakeholders, project evaluation and trade-offs, Tools for project managers

4-D and 7-S models and the project process

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering IE446 Project Management 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This course focuses on the essential concepts and practical skills required for managing projects in dynamic

environments. It aims to provide learners with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of project management and to

equip them with effective tools that will empower them to meet their full potential in the area of project management

thus enabling them to implement successful projects on time, within budget and to the highest possible standard.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering IE447

Regulatory Affairs and Case

Studies 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Product safety/liability legislation, medical device directive, FDA regulations & GMP, food safety & ISO22000, medical

device risk assessment, machinery directive, SEVESO Directive, WEEE directive, social acountability standards, safety

management and environmental management systems, relevant case studies.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering IE450 Lean Systems 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Understanding business, value stream mapping, current state mapping, future state mapping, lean tools, lean

balancing, lean layouts, action plans, lean problem solving, lean gaming, project work.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering IE522 Safety and Risk Management 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Safety Management

Systems management of safety; safety principles, safety programmes, risk control,

performance monitoring and evaluation. The system safety effort, life cycle phases and the system safety process.

Legislative requirements, safety statements, accident prevention through system design, the process of task analysis,

job safety analysis and system safety.

System Safety Analysis: Techniques and Methods

Preliminary hazard analysis, subsystem and system hazard analyses, operating and

support hazard analysis, energy tree and barrier analysis, failure mode and effect analysis, functional hazard analysis,

fault tree analysis, management oversight and risk tree, job safety analysis, reliability, fail safe and fail danger failures,

high integrity protection systems, human reliability.

Safety Organization

Procedures for reducing the risk of injury and minimizing the consequences of dangerous

occurrences, safety system organisation, first-aid and medical facilities, emergency use of protective equipment, fire

and emergency drills, emergency planning.

The remaining lectures in this subject, primarily in the professional and practical aspects of the syllabus, will be given by

various experts drawn from industry and state and semi- state bodies.

SectionII-SAFETYTECHNOLOGY

Safety Technology: Equipment

Mechanical hazards, non-mechanical hazards, risk assessment and machine design, guard

design and construction, safety devices and interlocking, abrasive wheels, woodworking machines, automated

machinery, pressure vessels, lifting machines, tools. CE marking.

Safety Technology: Systems

Maintenance, housekeeping, safe means of access and egress, safe place of work,

transport. Safety management systems.

Construction Safety

Scaffolding, fall arrest systems, hazards specific to the construction industry.

Responsibilities of project manager design stage and project manager construction stage.

Electrical Safety

Introduction to electrical systems, legislation and codes of practice, basic principles of

electricity, static, A.C. and D.C. generation, transmission and distribution, fixed electrical installations, temporary

electrical installations, electrical equipment for explosive, damp and corrosive atmospheres, electric shock, residual

current circuit breakers, safety devices.

Chemical Safety

Chemical, radioactive, and biological emergencies, dust explosions, gas and vapor clouds,

toxic waste storage, transport and disposal, transport of hazardous material, Seveso 11 Directive.

Fire Prevention, Fire Fighting, and Fire Escape

Current legal requirements, codes of practice, building regulations, identification of fire

hazards in buildings, sources of ignition, factors affecting the spread of fire, smoke and toxic fumes, reduction of fire risk

by design, effect of fire on buildings, finishes and furnishings, measures to reduce the risk of injury in a fire, fire detection

and alarm systems, fire fighting equipment, means of escape, fire drills, human behaviour in fire situations.

Minimization of Consequences

Cost reduction due to injuries and damage. Investigation and analysis of hazardous

incidents and near misses, principles of such investigations.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME219 Design I 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

This course has three sub-modules that provide the primary components of mechanical engineering design: (a) an

introduction to the basic theory of mechanical components that are the core building blocks in mechanisms and

machines and how they are modelled and analysed; (b) an introductory lecture and practical based course on

workshop equipment and methods; (c) an intermediate level 3D CAD course providing instruction in the design and

depiction of basic mechanisms and machines.

This module introduces students to design elements specific to mechanical engineering. In particular it exposes students

to: mechanical components and elements and explains how they fundtion; how they are manufactured and

assembled into usable configurations; how these mechanisms or machines may then be analysed kinematically and

kinetically in order to evaluate displacements, speeds, accelerations and the accompanying forces; students also learn

how to depict these components in professional standard drawings in 2D and 3D in plan, elevation, section and

assembly views; the core elements of manufacturing basic components using standard workshop equipment and

methods is also introduced. In summary the course provides the student with a grounding in design, analysis and CADD

skills that are developed on in subsequent years.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME220

Engineer in Society, Service

Learning and Ethics 5 1 1 Continuous Assessment

This module is concerned with the role of the engineer in society, ethical behaviour of engineers, health and safety

matters and developing a community awareness in students about how engineering can contribute directly to society.

A key part of the module is the Community Awareness Initiatives Responsibly Directed by Engineers (CAIRDE) project

culminating in a engineering community action poster presentation.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME223













Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical










Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical










Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME351 Design II 15 Full year Spring

Continuous

Assessment

Design II integrates core mechanical elements in an individual machine design project that goes from specification,

detailed design and analysis to final working drawings. Typically designs include electric motor driven hoists, pumps,

presses, etc. The course also incorporates: a taught 3D CADD module for design representation to BS8888 standards; a

taught communications module to teach written and verbal project presentation skills to a professional standard.

This subject covers the fundamentals of engineering planning and decision making, the mathematical and analytical

tools required, and the subject matter employed in using these tools. These fundamentals are applied to a variety of

engineering design situations. Application of mathematics, materials sciences and engineering mechanics to problems

in the analysis and design of mechanical elements; consideration of product specification, manufacturing methods,

safety and economic factors. Detailed design of a selection of machine components is covered based on analytical

solutions, empirical techniques and test results. The third year design project is used to integrate in one project a

number of elements that the students have acquired through 1st, 2nd and 3rd year including: workshop practice,

design, CADD, mechanics of solids, mechanical analysis and design, communication and report writing skills.

As part of this course an additional module in 3-D CADD is taught. This enables the student further develop their Design

and Drafting skills from the 1st and 2nd Year CADD I & II courses. A detailed course outline for the 20 hours of lecture and

practicals taken in the 1st semester of 3rd year is provided below.

The course requires the conceptual design of a functional machine. The ultimate aim of the project is that the student

designs the machine to a professional level and in sufficient detail that it could be manufactured in a workshop as a

prototype. The design should be presented primarily in 2D format and must obey all conventions in basic drawing

techniques including sketching, projections & views; auxiliary views, section views, production drawings, dimensioning.

All parts should be correctly toleranced in accordance with best practices. Assemblies for the machine, derivative parts

list and component detailed drawings are required. Where possible the design should make use of standard library

components – fasteners, bolts, circlips, bearings, gears, electric motors, pulleys, taper-locks, dowels, belts, etc. The

allocation date is typically mid-Sept with a submission date in the 2nd Semester. Each student is required to do his or her

work in as individual and as professional a manner as possible. Project parameters are varied so that in effect each

student receives a different project reducing the opportunity for plagiarism and copying. Each design is submitted as

drawings and a report. The report details the design procedure with clarification and justification of decisions made as

well as containing all design calculations including dynamic and stress analysis. All texts must be done using MS Word. A

complete project should be capable of being handed to a craftsman or workshop for fabrication, i.e., it should be self-

explanatory and complete. Where material from another source is used e.g., a manual, journal, paper etc. this should

be indicated in accordance with standard convention relating to references.

Students are required to present their projects key findings using powerpoint slides in a group setting. This requires them

to practice skills taught in the Communications module of Design II. A question and answer session follows and

introduces them to a typical design team environment where all aspects of one's work may be queried.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME353 Quality Systems 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Quality management systems (e.g. ISO9001), Six sigma philosophy, basic statistical quality control, tools for quality

improvement, process capability analysis, Kaizen, quality costs, quality auditing, key influences on quality (Deming,

Juran, Ishakawa, Crosby etc), Quality in a regulated sector e.g. Medical Devices.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME402

Advanced Mechanical

Analysis And Design 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Analytical methods applied to mechanical design; stress and strain analysis, linear and non-linear problems, constitutive

laws, mathematical modelling of mechanical systems, system optimisation and reliability; multi-body contact.

Applications to the design of beams, frames, pressure vessels, machine parts, thin plates and multi- body systems.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME420 PEP Report & Project 15 Full year 2 Project

All PEP students are required to give a presentation on the work experience they have gained while on placement. The

presentation is given when the student returns to the university and the audience consists of class members and

academic staff. PEP students are also required to submit a written report in a format specified for them before going on

placement.

Each student is assigned an individual project at the start of the academic year based on work done during industrial

placement or topics assigned by staff members. Assessment is based on a comprehensive final report and oral

presentation of the project results to the class and staff.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical










Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Mechanical

Engineering ME425 Project 10 Full year 2 Project

Based at NUI Galway, this programme aims to provide the students with a specific research project, and to

equip them with the skills necessary for their research career. On successful completion of this subject, the

student will have demonstrated his/her ability to:

1) Give an academic level presentation on their research project outlining the research project

background, a reflection of skills and knowledge acquired, a reflection on their contribution to the project.

2) Complete a significant engineering project that involves one or more of the following aspects: literature

searching and understanding, design and analysis, experimental testing, mathematical modelling,

biomaterials characterisation, product manufacture, process development.

3) Produce a comprehensive and substantial engineering project report, which describes project

objectives, background, test methods, results, discussion and conclusion.

4) Give a presentation supported by the use of an overhead projector, at an early stage of the project.

Produce a GANTT chart to support this early presentation.


Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME428

The Erasmus and International

Student Project 10 1 1 Project

Based at NUI Galway, this module aims to provide the students with a specific research project, and to equip them with

the skills necessary for their research career. On successful completion of this subject, the student will have

demonstrated his/her ability to:

1) Give an academic level presentation on their research project outlining the research project background, a

reflection of skills and knowledge acquired, a reflection on their contribution to the project.

2) Complete a significant engineering project that involves one or more of the following aspects: literature searching

and understanding, design and analysis, experimental testing, mathematical modelling, biomaterials characterisation,

product manufacture, process development.

3) Produce a comprehensive and substantial engineering project report, which describes project objectives,

background, test methods, results, discussion and conclusion.

4) Give a presentation supported by the use of an overhead projector, at an early stage of the project. Produce a

GANTT chart to support this early presentation.


Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME431 Systems Reliability 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Reliability analysis. Probabilistic modelling. Analysis of reliability data. Reliability modelling, Reliability management.

Markov models. High integrity protective systems. Monte Carlo Method. Maintenance modelling.


MP231 Mathematical Methods I 1 5 Two hour examination

MP231 – Maths Methods I

This course covers mathematical methods (principally from Calculus) that are important in applications.

Included are differentiation and integration of functions of multiple variables and associated applications

such as optimization (Lagrange Multipliers), critical points, Fourier series, and area/volume calculations.

Module Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of the module the learner should be able to:

Calculate partial differentials of a function of two or three variables, and determine the critical points

of functions of two variables, including constrained systems using Lagrange multipliers.

Determine Fourier series for periodic functions; utilize even/odd properties of functions to optimize

Fourier series calculations; define the periodic extension of a function defined in an interval.

Carry out multiple integrals of a function; interpret results in terms of area and/or volume; calculate

the area bounded by multiple curves.

Exhibit Green's theorem by calculating the relevant double integral and single (line) integrals.


MP236 Mechanics I 1 5 Two hour examination

1 Dimensional analysis: fundamental units, derived units, dimensionless quantities, the Buckingham pi theorem, analysing

systems using dimensional analysis, similarity, scale models

2 Calculus of variations: some examples of variational problems – shortest distance between two points, minimal surface

area of revolution, Fermat’s principle. Derivation of the Euler-Lagrange equation, some first integrals of the Euler-

Lagrange equation, solution of some problems, the Euler-Lagrange equations for several functions

3 The Lagrangian formulation of mechanics: coordinate systems, degrees of freedom, generalised coordinates,

holonomic systems, constraint forces, the action integral and Hamilton’s principle, derivation of the Lagrange equations

of motion for a holonomic system, examples of solving mechanics problems using Lagrange’s equations

4 Rigid body motion: the motion of the centre of mass of a system of particles, angular momentum and torque, motion

about the centre of mass of a rigid body, angular velocity, the moment of inertia tensor, kinetic energy of a rigid body,

the solution of some problems for rigid bodies.


MP305 Modelling I 1 5 Two hour examination

This course consists of four separate areas of application of Mathematical Modelling. The approach taken is to develop

the appropriate mathematical and computational techniques required to model and analyse various real world

problems. The course is available in semester I only.

Who Can Take This Course?

This course is an option for science students who have passed a second year course in mathematical physics or

mathematics.

The following four topics are covered:

Network Flow Models

Critical Path Analysis

Traffic Flow Models

Game Theory

Students are expected to attend one weekly two hour Maple practicals where various aspects of these topics are

illustrated. No previous experience with Maple programming is required.


MP345 Mathematical Methods I 1 5 Two hour examination

This course introduces some advanced methods of mathematical physics for solving ordinary differential

equations, and presents some applications of complex analysis.

Amongst the topics covered are:

(i) solution methods for second order linear differential equations with constant coefficients;

(ii) power series and Frobenius series solutions of second order linear ordinary differential equations with

variable coefficients;

(iii) orthogonality relations for trigonometric functions, Legendre functions, and Bessel functions;

(iv) the calculation of some real integrals using complex contour integration;

(v) complex analytic functions.

Module Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of the module the learner should be able to:

Find the general solution to a second-order linear differential equation with constant coefficients

when it is homogeneous, and a particular solution when it is inhomogeneous;

Find a second, linearly independent, solution to a second-order differential equation when one is

known;

Compute the first few terms of a power series or Frobenius series solution to a second-order linear

equation with variable coefficients, when it exists;

Derive orthogonality relations for trigonometric, Legendre and Bessel functions;

Compute real integrals using the theorems of complex contour integration;

Draw fields described by complex analytic functions.

Module

Code


TI311 Advanced GIS 1 5 CA

Based on the basic concepts and simple applications of GIS that were covered in the course “Introduction to GIS”,

this course focuses on the advanced topics and advanced functions of GIS, which are more practical. The concepts

of advanced analysis functions of network analysis and spatial interpolation are explained, and topics of data

quality, uncertainty and errors, Google Earth are discussed. Students will understand the latest development of these

advanced GIS topics.

The extensions of ArcView 3.3 are selected as the software package for this course, and MapInfo Professional 9.5 and

ArcGIS 9.3 are introduced. Students will acquire the useful techniques of making more practical maps and

performing advanced analyses through the computer practical classes.

Health and Biomedical Sciences


AN219 Cell Biology 1 5 Two hour examination

The aim of this module is to facilitate an understanding of the organization and compartmentalization of the eukaryotic

cell, cellular communications and motility, the cell cycle, cell death and cellular differentiation.


1. Describe the basic organisation of a eukaryotic cell, name the major organelles

2. and describe their function.

3. Describe the main components of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells and know

4. what their function is.

5. Describe the junctions which form between eukaryotic cells.

6. Be familiar with the types of signal that cells send and receive and the main signalling mechanisms utilized by

eukaryotic cells

7. Describe the eukaryotic cell cycle and understand the processes of mitotic and meiotic cell division.

8. Describe cell death and know that this can occur by several mechanisms including apoptosis and necrosis.

9. Describe what stem cells are and the basics of the process of cell differentiation from stem cells to the

specialized cell types of the human body.

10. Describe the basics of how loss of cell control can cause cancer.


AN224

Structure of the Fundamental Tissue

(Please note this module can only be

taken together with AN219. It is not

available on its own) 1 5 Two hour examination

The module covers the histological structure and functional relationships of the fundamental tissues, including the

microvascular system. There is a strong emphasis on the common principles of tissue architecture that underly the

structure of the fundamental tissues. How these common principles are modified to provide unique tissue specific

structures and functions is also emphasized. Tissue turnover and dynamics are also considered, especially in the context

of the response to injury and cancer development. The role of stem cells in tissue maintenance and the potential for

tissue engineering in vitro are also addressed. The lectures are complemented by practicals using virtual microscopy in

which the student will learn to recognize and classify all of the fundamental tissues and their cellular and non-cellular

components


1. Describe the ways in which cells interact with one another to form tissues and organs

2. Describe the means by which tissues and organs interact with their surrounding environment

3. List the fundamental tissues and state functions for each.

a. Give locations for each

4. For each of the fundamental tissues you will:

a. Describe the types of cells and extracellular matrix that make up the tissue

b. Explain how different types of the tissue are classified and the basis of this classification

c. List and describe any special features of the cells which make up the tissue and relate this to overall

tissue function

d. Where relevant, describe the tissue dynamics of growth and repair

5. Explain turnover and tissue dynamics in respect of each of the fundamental tissues

a. Compare and contrast these factors between different tissues

b. Explain the role of stem cells in each of the above processes

c. Relate these concepts to tissue healing and the development of cancer


AN230 Human Body Structure 1 5 Two hour examination

This module will develop concepts for the understanding of the normal anatomical body structures, organisation and

function and will help predicting how impairment may impact on those parametrs.

On completion of this module, students will be able to:

Describe the structure of cells, formation of tissues and general organisation of human body.

Describe the organisation and functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular , repiratory,

gastrointestinal and reproductive systems as well as a basic understanding of the organisation of the topographic

organisation of the brain.


BI208 Protein Structure and Function 1 5 Two hour examination

This course will provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts of the biochemistry of proteins

and their vital role as the molecular tools of living cells. Using examples, the relationship between structure on

biochemical function will be discussed. Students will be introduced to the essential role of Enzymes as biocatalyts in

living cells. The practical course will introduce students to the main concepts and methodologies for biomolecule

measurement in biochemistry.


1. Describe fully the general molecular structure and function of proteins

2. Demonstrate the role of enzymes as nature's own biocatalysis at the molecular level from studies of kinetics and

molecular structure

3. Develop an understanding of the main experimental approaches and concepts for biomolecule analysis

4. Manipulate biochemical reagents and perform biochemical assays

5. Perform core techniques for measuring properties and quantities of the four main classes of biomolecules,

including proteins

6. Demonstrate an ability to present and interpret scientific results

7. Draw scientifically grounded conclusions from observations and explain these in writing

8. Explain the main units of biochemical measurements and perform the basic calculations used in biochemistry


BI309 Cell Biology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: The course will provide students with a knowledge of the structure and function of typical

eukaryotic cells, the fundamental concepts of how cells communicate and how the cells of the human immune system

function. Practical classes will give students an understanding of laboratory safety, good laboratory practices, solutions

and buffers, eukaryotic cells, and antibodies as biochemical reagents.


BI318 Human Nutrition 1 5 Two hour examination

The Human Nutrition module covers

a) Basic principles of healthy eating, historical aspects of the Irish Diet, aspects of food safety, food technology, food

labelling.

b)The relationship between diet and disease - heart disease, diabetes, obesity, eating disorders.

c)Specific nutritional needs of different population subgroups - infants, children,teenagers, older people, ethnic groups,

and sports people.

d) Clinical nutrition includes enteral and parenteral nutrition

e) Food Policy


1Demonstrate knowledge of the basic nutrients in food

2Describe the relationship between diet and both prevention and treatment of disease

3Explain the special nutritional needs of different population subgroups

4Explain the importance of nutrition in a clinical setting

5Describe nutrition poilicy both in Ireland and Internationally


BI319 Molecular Biology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: This course will provide students with an understanding of the eukaryotic cell cycle and DNA

replication, the genomes of eukaryotic cells, regulation of eukaryotic gene expression, and viruses. Practical aspects of

the course will give experience of key fundamental techniques used in molecular biology including plasmid DNA

preparation, restriction endonuclease digestion, polymerase chain reaction and agarose gel electrophoresis.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME353 Quality Systems 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Quality management systems (e.g. ISO9001), Six sigma philosophy, basic statistical quality control, tools for quality

improvement, process capability analysis, Kaizen, quality costs, quality auditing, key influences on quality (Deming,

Juran, Ishakawa, Crosby etc), Quality in a regulated sector e.g. Medical Devices.

Discipline

Module


Taught in



Mechanical

Engineering ME355

Mechanical Design I for Sports

& Exercise 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This course has three sub-modules that provide the primary components of mechanical engineering design: (a) an

introduction to the basic theory of mechanical components that are the core building blocks in mechanisms and

machines and how they are modelled and analysed; (b) an introductory level 3D CAD course providing instruction in

the design and depiction of basic mechanisms and machines.

This module introduces students to design elements specific to mechanical engineering. In particular it exposes students

to: mechanical components and elements and explains how they fundtion; how they are manufactured and

assembled into usable configurations; how these mechanisms or machines may then be analysed kinematically and

kinetically in order to evaluate displacements, speeds, accelerations and the accompanying forces; students also learn

how to depict these components in professional standard drawings in 2D and 3D in plan, elevation, section and

assembly views. In summary the course provides the student with a grounding in design, analysis and CADD skills that

are developed on in subsequent years.


MI202 Laboratory Skills in Microbiology I 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: The study of microorganisms requires that first they be isolated in pure culture and then that their

identity can be determined. This laboratory based module will provide instruction in the basic techniques by

microbiologists to culture and identify significant groups of bacteria. Culturing techniques and basic microscopy will be

the main emphasis of the module. The module will be supplemented by 6 lectures that will provide the theoretical

background necessary to understand the laboratory methodologies.


MI324 Immunology and Recombinant Techniques 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: Overview of DNA structure, physicochemical properties. Purification of nucleic acids. Manipulation

of genetic material through DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes. PCR. Vectors for cloning and gene expression.

Applications of recombinant DNA technology. Ethical considerations. Overview of the immune system. Brief history of

immunology. Innate immunity. Adaptive immune responses – humoral and cell-mediated. Antibody structure, function,

diversity and mode of action. T lymphocytes. T cell receptor structure, diversity and functioning. Memory and

vaccination. MHC: classes, structure, function, diversity, assembly and antigen presentation. Complement: activation,

pathway cascade and effector functions. Immunological tolerance. Immunodeficiencies. Immunotechniques in vitro

and in vivo.


MI326 Microbial Metabolic and Molecular Systems 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: Microbial growth and metabolism. Nutrition, metabolism and other factors influencing microbial

growth with specific emphasis on cellular catabolic and anabolic systems of microorganisms. Genetics of microbial

cells. Nucleic acids structure, properties and function; Replication in Procaryotes. Transcription and translation in

Procaryotes. Control of gene expression involved in the metabolism of simple sugars and amino acids (lactose operon,

tryptophan operon) ; Genetic recombination events in microbes and the use of mutants in the analysis of gene location

and function and expression.


PH339 Radiation and Medical Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides an introduction to the medical imaging and instrumentation aspects of real imaging environments,

ranging from obsolete modalities to the modern tomographic imaging modalities (such as PET and SPECT). This module

also covers the fundamental processes involved in forming images using ionising radiation, safety issues associated with

ionising radiation and methods of radiation detection.


PH341 Measurement of health hazards at work 1 5 Two hour examination

This course outlines the general approach for the assessment of the health risks associated with exposure to

hazardous substances in a workplace environment. It addresses the theory and practice of sampling many

of the chemical and biological workplace hazards for example, particulates, bioaerosols, gases, vapours.

Students will cover the following subjects; Introduction to Occupational Hygiene, Thermal environment,

workplace gases and vapours, workplace dusts, workplace case studies


PM311 Introduction to Toxicology 1 5 Two hour examination

The aim of this module is to introduce key principles and concepts of Toxicology to science students with an interest in

poisons and to enable these student to apply these principles and concepts to specific toxicants.

The course is delivered in Semester 1 with lectures divided into blocks linked to specific learning objectives. The lecture

blocks are:

Fundamentals of Toxicology: Introduction to key principles of toxicology

Toxicokinetics: Factors affecting toxic responses including absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination

Mechanisms of Toxicity: Mechanism of toxic action including biochemical toxicology and mechanisms of cell death

Target Organ Toxicology: The concept of target organ toxicity and Liver, Lung, Skin, and Nervous System Toxicity

Toxicity Assessment: How toxicity is assessed and challenges faced in extrapolating risks to man, in vitro and in vivo

testing.


SI206

Introduction to Physiology and

Gastrointestinal 1 5 Two hour examination

This course aims to:

1. Provide a modern education in physiology for students with different intellectual interests and a variety of career

aspirations.

2. Focus on a quality academic education including where appropriate the acquisition of technical skills.

3. Advance students’ knowledge of fundamental principles in a range of physiological subjects.

4. Provide an educational environment within which students can develop an interest in and enthusiasm for their

subject, and realise their potential by acquiring intellectual, scientific, technical and study skills appropriate to self-

directed study and lifelong learning.

5. Foster learning through the study of the scientific literature, including original research papers.and immune function.


SI207 Nerve and Muscle 1 5 Two hour examination

This course aims to:

1. Provide a modern education in physiology for students with different intellectual interests and a variety of

career aspirations.

2. Focus on a quality academic education including where appropriate the acquisition of technical skills.

3. Advance students’ knowledge of fundamental principles in a range of physiological subjects.

4. Provide an educational environment within which students can develop an interest in and enthusiasm for their

subject, and realise their potential by acquiring intellectual, scientific, technical and study skills appropriate to

self-directed study and lifelong learning.

5. Foster learning through the study of the scientific literature, including original research papers.and immune

function.


SI311 Neurophysiology 1 5 Two hour examination

The module in Neurophysiology will provide students with a knowledge of the function of the brain and spinal cord.

Topics covered will include organisation and function of cells of the central nervous system, motor and somatosensoty

processing, physiology underlying vision, hearing, sleep, learning, emotion, language, hunger and thermoregulation.

Theoretical learning and understanding of will be aided by laboratory practicals investigating the physiology of vision

and hearing.


SI312 Endocrinology 1 5 Two hour examination

This module will provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the function of the endocrine system with an

emphasis on human endocrinology. It will include an introduction hormonal classification and the molecular

mechanisms of hormone action, hormone receptors and their signal transduction pathways. The structure and function

of classical endocrine glands will be discussed and the pathophysiology of endocrine disorders will be discussed.


SI317 Human Body Function 1 10 2 x two hour examination

This module is a fundamental course in Physiology. Its aim is to allow students to study some of the main principles

underlying health and disease. It provides an introduction to haematology, cardiac function, nerve and muscle

function, lung function and the hormones.


SI326 Advanced Cardiovascular Physiology 1 5 Two hour examination

The module in Cardiovascular Physiology will provide students with a knowledge of the function of the cardiovascular

system in health and disease. Topics covered will include cardiac and vascular smooth muscle physiology, endothelial

cell function, the microcirculation, control of blood vessels, cardiovascular reflexes, co-ordinated cardiovascular

responses, the cardiovascular system in disease . Theoretical learning will be aided by practicals investigating heart and

blood vessel function.

Code Module Description Semester ECTS Examination Arrangements

TI259

Behavioural Geography: Environment

and Society

1 5 Essay; 2 hour examination

This module is designed to introduce students to environmental behaviour and the role occupied by spatial, personal,

and contextual factors. Utilising a critical thinking approach, this module investigates concepts regarding environment,

sustainability and ecological citizenship. A geographical investigation of the need for sustainability policy to experience

a conceptual shift utilising social marketing and segmentation techniques to design more effective policy will also be

explored

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)


CS211 Programming and Operating Systems 1 5 Two hour examination

This course introduces operating systems, the most fundamental piece of software running on any computer.


1. Name and describe the main tasks of an operating system;

2. Explain the concept and purpose of a process in an operating system;

3. Represent the life cycle of a process in a diagrammatical fashion;

4. Describe and compare various scheduling strategies;

5. Explain and implement a queue data structure;

6. Apply a semaphore as a tool in concurrent programming;

7. Explain the necessary conditions for deadlock;

8. Describe and apply an algorithmic strategy for deadlock detection.

Module

Code Module Name ECTS

Taught

Sem 1 or 2

Exam

Sem 1 or 2

Exam

Duration

No. Exam

Papers

CS304

Mathematical and Logical

Aspects of Computing 5 1 1

One 2 hour

paper 1

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of propositional and predicate logic. Topics covered include the

precise mathematical formulation of logical statements; the analysis of such statements to establish equivalence and

consistency; and an introduction to mathematical techniques to check the validity of arguments in propositional and

predicate logic.

Learning outcomes:


1. Prepresent mathematical statements in propositional and predicate logic

2. Establish if given compound propositions are equivalent

3. Derive the disjunctive and conjunctive normal forms of a proposition

4. Apply semantic and syntactic techniques to check logical consequence

5. Parse and analyse statements formulated in predicate logic

6. Demonstrate knowledge of mathematical and logical reasoning

Module

Code Module Name ECTS

Taught

Sem 1 or 2

Exam

Sem 1

Exam

Duration

CS304

Mathematical and Logical

Aspects of Computing 5 1 1

One 2 hour

paper

An appreciation of some of the mathematical and logical ideas and techniques which are useful in computer science.

Logic, propositional logic/calculus, basic machines, Boolean algebra, semantic tableau, resolution.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology

CT101

Computing Systems 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Computing Systems

The course is an introductory presentation of computing systems architecture and components: software, hardware

and data that is being manipulated.

Data representation in computing systems (numbes, audio, graphics, video); Introduction to Computing Systems

Organization (CPU, Memory, Buses, I/O Devices); Introduction to Operating Systems; Introduction to Data

Communications; Introduction to Networking; Introduction to Electronic Circuits; Digital logic fundamentals (CLC and

FSM design); Principles of operation for main computing systems elements: CPU, Memory Subsystem (Primary and

Secondary), I/O Subsystem and Devices;

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology

CT102

Algorithms and Information

Systems 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Algorithms & Information Systems

An introduction to algorithms, data structures and information systems

Fundamentals of Data, Evaluation and Control

Fundamentals of Problem Solving

Data Structures

Algorithms for searching

Algorithms for sorting

“Big Oh” notation

Algorithms for compression

Finite state machines

Information systems

Database systems

Social networks

Logic and Sets

Functions and relations

Google's page rank algorithm

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology

CT103

Programming 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Program Design and Flowcharting; Data input / output and formatting; Mathematical library

functions; Relational and Conditional Operators; Arrays and Strings; While and For loops; Functions;

Use of the Debugger; Functions; Data Structures; Referencing by address and Pointers; File input and

output;

Dynamical Memory Allocation

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology

CT108

Next Generation Technologies 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Next Generation Technologies I

This is an introductory course into energy, environmental, medical informatics, digital media and Arts in Action.

Introduction to Next-Generation Technologies including Digital Media and Gaming, Multimedia Web Development,

Medical Informatics Informatics, Energy & Environmental Informatics, Computational Informatics and Enterprise Systems.

The primary goal is to engage the students in software development at an early stage by using a team-based, problem-

based learning approach focused on these thematic areas. Students will work on medium-sized group-based problems

in these diverse domains that are specifically aimed at strengthening their grasp of context, core concepts as well as

programming and algorithm development. Students will participate on the College of Engineering and Informatics Arts

in Action Programme, and thereby gain an appreciation for the role of performance arts and sound creation on the

software development process.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology

CT111

Programming & Logical

Foundations I 5 1 1 2 hour exam

This course equips the student for computer programming development with a high-level

language, in this case Python. It covers basic programming concepts including a logical

approach to problem solving; structured programming; variables; selection; iteration;

functions; arrays and other basic data structures.

Discipline

Module


Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT113

Computing Systems and

Applications 5 Full year 2 c/a

This is a foundation course for further studies in IT, and covers most of the relevant topics at an introductory level. There

is a fundamental overview of the hardware components of a standard computer system, introduction to the functions

of the operating system, issues of security and internet/networks fundamentals. The course complements a thorough

understanding of many package applications related to text editing, graphics creation and manipulation and some

concepts in client-server implementations by requiring the students to develop a webpage/website over the duration of

the module’s implementation which will encapsulate and illustrate many key concepts in computer systems and

applications.

Module


Taught in



CT213 Computer Systems & Organization 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Computer Systems History and Architecture Development; Von Neumann machine; memory systems; storage media;

virtual and cache memory; interrupts; concurrency and pipelining; processes; scheduling; critical regions and

synchronisation; file systems and management; distributed operating systems and parallel processing; case studies;

UNIX, MSDOS and Windows NT.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT216 Software Engineering I 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Software Engineering 1

Introduction to Software Engineering. Structured Programming and Structured Design. Modularity: The Structure Chart

and Module Specification Methods. Quality Module Design: Coupling, Cohesion and Factoring. Structured Analysis:

Data Flow Diagrams, Event Partitioning, Functional Decomposition. Transaction and Transform Analysis. Real time design

issues in software development. State Transition diagrams and Petri Nets. Introduction to Formal Methods and Formal

Design Specifications using the Z notation.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT229 Programming II 10 Full year 2 2 hour exam

Programming II

Techniques to analyse algorithms. Abstract Data Types. Modularity. Queues. Stacks. Lists. Arrays. Sorting Techniques:

Bubble, Selection, Insertion, Quick, Merge and Shell. Searching: Linear and Binary. Trees: Binary trees, Tree Algorithms,

depth first, breadth-first searching. Balanced Trees, AVL Trees. Hashing. Priority queues and heaps. Introduction to

Graphs.

Module


Taught in


Semester

Examination

Arrangements

CT230 Database Systems I 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Database Systems I

Indexing Techniques: Primary, Secondary, Clustering, B Trees, B+ Trees, Hashing (Extendible, Dynamic, Linear). Database

Architectures and Data Models: Network, Hierarchical, Relational, Object-Oriented. Relational Model: Relations,

Relational operators, Integrity constraints. Relational Algebra and SQL: Relational operators, Query Optimisation, DDL,

DML,DCL. Extended Relational Model.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT231 Professional Skills I 5 Full year 2

Continuous

Assessment

Professional Skills I

Effective communication and presentation skills for a work environment. Preparation: defining the purpose, identifying

the context, identifying the content, structuring the process, planning for

time. Presentation skills for a software developer: code walkthroughs, peer reviews. Students will also be assessed by

continuous assessment, including a sizeable project presentation.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Duration of exam

(hours)

CT240 Programming - Algorithms 5 1 1

Laboratory-based

exam

Introduction to Visual Basic programming. Basic program structures, loops, conditions and expressions. Designing a visual

interface. An introduction to Visual programming – simple visual elements.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Duration of exam

(hours)

CT241 Information Systems I 5 1 1

2 hour exam &

assignment

Introduction to information systems: Databases. File systems: organisation, processing, indexing techniques. Database

systems: architectures, overview of models. Relational database concepts and development: entities, entity

relationships, normalisation.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Duration of exam

(hours)

CT242 Technological Frameworks I 5 1 1

2 hour exam &

assignment

Introduction to Visual Basic programming. Basic program structures, loops, conditions and expressions. Designing a visual

interface. An introduction to Visual programming – simple visual elements.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Duration of exam

(hours)

CT317 Systems Approach 5 1 1

2 hour exam &

assignment

This course examines the nature of systems thinking, and how the systems approach can be used to avoid the pitfalls of

reductionist thinking. Topics covered include: Problem Solving, Systems Methodologies, Systems Dynamics, Total Systems

Intervention, Interactive Planning, and Soft Systems Methodology.

Module


Taught in



CT318 Human Computer Interaction 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Effective techniques to the gathering of systems requirements. HCI as a key component of the SDLC. Model user and

task components of system projects. System interaction design patterns. User Interface Design and programming tools

to the design of interfaces with many applicable domains. Assess the interfaces/interaction patterns of existing systems.

Prioritise varied and conflicting design criteria as part of the systems development task.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined

in Semester Duration of exam (hours)

CT319 Artificial Intelligence 5 1 1 2 hour exam & assignment

This course includes an introduction to Artificial Intelligence. It looks at AI as applied to image processing, knowledge

representation and inference, problem solving and search, and expert systems.

Control Abstraction. Subprograms. Procedural Model. Functional programming. Logic Programming. Object oriented

programming. Visual programming. Database programming. Parallel programming.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT303

Networks and

Communications 10 Full year Spring 2 hour exam

Networks and Communications

ISO / OSI Reference Model. Basic Data Communications, Physical Layer. Data Link Layer, Example Protocols. LAN

Technology Standards, Virtual LANs. Network Layer, Internet Protocol, ATM. Transport Layer, TCP and UDP. Use of

Higher OSI Layers. Client /Server Architectures. Network Programming using Sockets API.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT326 Programming III 10 Full year Spring 2 hour exam

Fundamentals of OO Analysis and Design. Encapsulation, Inheritance, Polymorphism. Function Overloading. Constructor

Functions, Overloading Constructors. Controlling Fonts. String Classes. HTML Applet Attributes. Graphics. Event

Handling.Exception Handling. Multithreaded Programming and Synchronisation. Abstract Classes and Interfaces.

Packages. Input /Output Streams and Object Serialisation, Customising Serialisation. Random File Access. Socket

Classes. Applet Security. Large Scale Design, Open / Closed Principle, Dependency Inversion Principle. Design

Patterns, Observer Pattern, Abstract Factory Pattern. Component Design and Testing. Software Reflection. Collections

Framework, Interfaces, Implementation Classes and Algorithms.

Module


Taught in

Semester Examined in Semester

Examination

Arrangements

CT331 Programming Paradigms 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Introduction to programming paradigms. Formal language. Chomsky hierarchy. Finite Automata. Push down

automata. Interpreters. Compilers. Compiler structure. Scanning. Parsing. Language abstractions. Data Abstraction.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT332 Database Systems II 10 Full year Spring 2 hour exam

Database Design: ER Modeling, EER modeling, mapping to relational schema. Normalisation - 1st, 2nd, 3rd, BCNF.

Design Issues Choice of keys, denormalisation, indexing strategies. Concurrency Control Lost Update, Temporary

Update, Incorrect Summary Problems Locking Mechanisms, Binary Locks, Shared and Exclusive Locks, 2 Phase Locking

Protocol, Timestamping approaches. Multiversion approaches. Recovery Mechanism Motivations, Transactions, System

Log, Commit Points, Checkpoints, Immediate & Deferred Update Protocols. Shadow paging. Distributed Databases

Introduction, Fragmentation policies, Distributed Database Architectures, Distributed Query Execution and

Optimisation, Distributed Recovery, Distributed Concurrency Control Object-Oriented Databases Mapping EER models

to Object Oriented Schemas. OQL.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Duration of exam

(hours)

CT335 Object Oriented Programming 5 1 1

2 hour exam &

assignment

Introduction: objects, classes, flow control, data structures using Java. OO Design Principles. Exception Handling. Input

and Output. Graphical Programming, Event Model. Applets. Introduction to Multithreading & Network Programming.

Java Beans. RMI. Java and Security. Discussion on OO design and implementations in the Java and Python

environments.

Course


Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Duration of exam

(hours)

CT336 Graphics and Image Processing 5 1 1

2 hour exam &

assignment

This course deals with the automatic and semi-automatic improvement and interpretation of digital images. Includes:

the capture and storage of digital images; file formats; basic digital techniques such as convolution, thresholding, and

histogram manipulation; image enhancement; geometric manipulations and their applications, for example to image

rectification; the automatic identification and extraction of objects of interest; the design and development of

measurement and classification systems; applications and case studies from various domains: industrial; the biological &

medical sciences; remote sensing.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT338

Software Engineering & Project

Management 10 Full year Spring 2 hour exam

Software Engineering and Project Management

The Software Development Life Cycle. Waterfall, prototype and spiral models of software product development.

Object-Oriented analysis and design. Detailed instruction in one particular object-oriented methodology. CASE tool.

Introduction to software testing: Black and White Box approaches. Complexity and metrics analysis. Transaction Flow

Testing. Logic-Based Testing. The V-model of software development. The practice of project management, Group

based exercises in project management.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT360

Next Generation Technologies

III 10 Full year Spring 2 hour exam

Next Generation Technologies III

More advanced coverage of Next Generation Technology topics including: Digital Media and Games Development.

Medical and Bioinformatics. Acquisition of Biosignals, Lossy and Lossless Data Compression Techniques, Analysis and

Classification of Biosignals. Biostatistical Methods. Energy Informatics. Computational Informatics. Enterprise Systems.

Module

Code Module Title ECTS Taught in Semester Examined in


CT404 Graphics & Image Process 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Transformations. Projections. Rendering Standards. Edge detection. Shape contours. Segmentation. Object

recognition. Industrial applications.

Discipline

Module

Code Module Title

ECTS

Taught in

Semester

Examined in

Semester

Examination

Arrangements

Information

Technology CT413 Final Year Project 10 Full year 2 Project

Final Year Project

Final Year students will undertake a major Project in the area of Applied Computing, in which the skills and knowledge

acquired during the module are given practical application. A report will be written on the project.

Module



CT414

Distributed Systems & Co

Operative Computing 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Introduction. Distributed Systems. Enabling Technology. High-Bandwidth Networks. Distributed Systems. ANSA/ISA

Architecture. Open Distributed Processing. Distributed Application Platforms. Transparency. Reliability. Computer-

Supported Co-operative Work. Human-Computer Interaction. Human-Interaction. Groupware. Multimedia. Hypertext.

Security. Asynchronous Groupware. E-mail. Structured Messages. Co-operative Hypertext Systems. Synchronous

Groupware. Seeheim Model. WYSISIS. Multi-user Interfaces. Group-Enabled Applications. Shared Window Systems.

Desktop Conferencing. Compter-Supported Meetings. Media Spaces. Telework. Telepresence. Commercial Groupware

examples. Research Trends

Module



CT417 Software Engineering III 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Software Project Management. Metrics and Behaviour. Measuring software projects. Project costings and projections.

Software Quality Assurance: ISO and CMM Model. Object-oriented Analysis and Design. Methodology review, detailed

instruction in one particular object-oriented methodology. Software Engineering: The Past, Present and Future.

Module



CT421 Artificial Intelligence 5 1 1 2 hour exam

AI History and Applications. Predicate Calculus, Search Strategies, Production Systems. Review of primary languages;

Prolog and LISP. Rule-Bases Expert Systems, Knowledge Representation and Natural Language. Review of Automated

Reasoing. Machine Learning and Advanced AI Techniques.

Module



CT422

Modern Information

Management 5 1 1 2 hour exam

Data Mining, Data Warehousing, Data Mining, Data Warehousing Retrieval, Filtering, Extraction, Classification. Text

Retrieval. Text Retrieval Models: Boolean, Statistical, Linguistic. Lexical Analysis, Stemming Algorithms Vector Space Model,

Latent Semantic Indexing, Semantic Networks, Connectionist approaches. Multi-Media Retrieval. Evaluation:

Precision/Recall Measures. Machine Learning, Relevance Feedback. Collaborative Retrieval.

Module



CT423 Systems Theory 5 1 1 2 hour exam

The nature of systems thinking. The art of problem solving. The scientific method. System methodologies. Systems

Dynamics. Soft systems methodology. Total systems intervention. Case studies.


PH332 Electronics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides students with an overview of the key components and systems in analog and digital electronics.

The underlying principles of semiconductor materials, binary numbers, Boolean logic, and sequential logic, form the

platform for understanding of higher level device/circuit design and performance. The functionality of some of the

more common and useful specific electronic devices is explored. We explain the integration of such components into

higher-level microprocessors, and study the instructions sets used to programme them.


PH334 Computational Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

Techniques and applications of computational physics are described. In accompanying practical classes, programs

are written in a modern computer language to investigate physical systems, with an emphasis on dynamical problems.

Module

Code


TI237 Geographies of Cyberspace 1 5 CA, 2 hour examination

Aims and Objectives

To examine the changing nature of economic and social development in the information age and the place of

geography in a ’spaceless’ world.

To differentiate between the theory, policy and reality behind these changes and to critically interpret the cyberspace

rhetoric.

Provide you the student with the skills and methods to make up your own mind about the interaction between

technology and society and the role of space in it.

Course Description

This course is concerned with the evolution of Geography in an increasingly ’spaceless’ world (Ohmae, 1995). Focusing

on the rise of new technologies and the analogous ’informationalisation’ of polity, society and economy the course

aims to counter the naïve and simplistic analysis that ignores the geographical dimensions of cyberspace. Exploring the

development of theories in academic discourse and science fiction literature this course will incorporate a retrospective

and forward-looking evaluation of the interaction between society and technology and its spatial consequences.

Touching on many of the main strands of geographic inquiry the first set of lectures will attempt to ’pin down’ the

meanings of many of the phrases that have entered popular parlance, from Information Society to Cyberspace and

the Knowledge economy. Thereafter, the course will be divided into sections dealing with the economic, political,

cultural and urban/rural geographies of cyberspace. Key areas here will be the geography of economic development

in the new age which will encompass case studies on the digital divide. Governance in a cyberspace without borders

and the increase of the surveillance state will constitute another segment of the course. Literary geographies will be

explored through reference to some seminal science fiction novels and films. While ’cities of tomorrow’ and ’rural

disconnectedness’ will be the focus of the remaining lectures.

Learning Outcomes

Ability to critically evaluate changes in the Information age as well as the technologies that quicken the advance of

’cyberspace’.

Recognition of the potential for, and limits to, policy responses in the information age.

An introduction to key qualitative methods and quantitative methods in geography (introduction to basic web page

design).

Method of Assessment

50% exam (2 questions from a choice of 5)

50% project work (essay)/practical

Project work can be computer lab and field based. One part of the project work may involve you categorising how

much of your daily experience is carried out in cyberspace – or how much of your life is carried out under surveillance?

We will be concerned with highlighting issues relating to privacy and the geography of surveillance. For more on

increased surveillance see the American Civil Liberties Union paper here

Marine Sciences


BPS202 Fundamentals in Aquatic Plant Science 1 5 Two hour examination

This module will introduce key aspects of the biology of aquatic photosynthetic organisms including seaweeds,

microalgae and other aquatic plants. In particular it explores the aquatic environments including lakes and marine

systems as habitats for aquatic plant and algal growth and provides fundamentals of algal diversity, functionality and

ecology, and plant/algal environment interactions.


Outline and appreciate the importance of different algal groups (including both microalgae and macroalgae)

in ecology and their applications in biotechnology

Describe and characterise environments (terrestrial, freshwater, marine) suitable for algal growth, with particular

detail on growth requirements and controlling factors regarding seaweeds and phytoplankton

Appreciate the diversity of different algal groups, their distinguishing biological features including

morphological growth forms, and identify common representatives of native Irish algal groups

Describe and appreciate the different interactions between algae and their abiotic (physical, chemical) and

biotic (living) environments

Describe the origin and relationships between different photosynthetic organisms

Understand key physiological processes in algae and their modifications to different enviromental challenges


EOS229 Properties of the Ocean 1 5 Two hour examination

Structure, energy flow through, and circulation of, the atmosphere.

Air-Sea Interaction and exchange of heat, water and gases

Geology of ocean basins

Sources of material and elements to the ocean

Properties of water, ions in seawater-salinity and nutrients

Temperature and salinity variation in the ocean, water column structure

Distribution of water column properties and mapping water masses

Light and sound in the ocean

Ocean instrumentation


EOS230 Ocean Processes 1 5 Two hour examination

Global Thermohaline Circulation

Waves and Tides

Sedimentary Processes on continental margins

Hydrothermal Circulation

Photosynthesis and nutrient cycling

Biogeochemical cycling of gases in the ocean

Biogenic sediment formation and distribution


MI306 Marine Microbiology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: Introduction to marine microbiology and microbial ecology. Overview of marine microbes. Marine

primary productivity, The role of bacteria in marine food webs and the global carbon cycle. Marine carbon cycle,

Marine nitrogen cycle. Marine viruses. Unveiling marine microbial diversity; Molecular microbial ecology and techniques

(e.g. nucleic acids extraction, PCR, gene cloning).


ZO319 Marine Zoology 1 5 Two hour examination

This module focuses on habitats in the marine evironment from the coastal zone to the deep sea. This module will

explore the distribution of animals in different marine habitats and how animals have adapted to particular

environmental conditions in those habitats.


1. Describe the particular challenges faced by animals living in the deep sea and how they have overcome these

challenges.

2. Discuss the animal groups that are commonly associated with deep sea fauna and discuss the evolutionary

implications of this pattern.

3. Discuss concepts in coastal community processes e.g. 'supply-side' ecology

4. Compare and contrast the challenges faced by creatures in rocky and soft sediment intertidal benthos

(Practical outcome) collecting data, carrying out data analysis and plotting results for intertidal community patterns

Nanotechnology and New Materials


PH430 Biophotonics 1 5 Two hour examination

The module provides a broad introduction to light interaction with biological materials (including human tissue, both in

vivo and ex-vivo) and how it can be harnessed for sensing, imaging and therapy.


1. define terms and explain concepts relating to the physical principles covered by this module’s syllabus.

2. describe the physical laws that connect terms and concepts covered by this module’s syllabus and, where

appropriate, derive the mathematical relationships between those terms and concepts.

3. outline applications to real-world situations of the physical principles covered by this module’s syllabus.

4. analyze physical situations using concepts, laws and techniques learned in this module.

5. identify and apply pertinent physics concepts, and appropriate mathematical techniques, to solve physics

problems related to the content of this module’s syllabus.

6. discuss state-of-the-art applications of physical principles covered by this module’s syllabus to contemporary

themes in biomedical physics and medical physics.

Oil, Gas and Coal


EOS321 Igneous Petrology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description:

This module explores the generation, transport and emplacement of magma in the Earth’s crust. It introduces the range

of igneous rocks encountered in the field through studies of hand specimens and thin sections during practical sessions.


EOS322 Metamorphic Petrology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description:

This module explores all changes that affect rocks resulting from the metamorphic agents of pressure, temperature and

fluid composition in the Earth’s crust. The new metamorphic minerals and textures formed are explained and studied in

thin section. Particular emphasis is on Barrovian and Buchan style metamorphism of mudstones, siliceous dolomites and

basic igneous rocks.


EOS323 Sediments and the sedimentary record 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description:

The course will cover: sandstone petrography; the origin of limestones and carbonate reefs; volcaniclastic sediments;

fluid mechanics and the formation of sedimentary structures; depositional environments through geological time;

deltas, estuarine and shallow marine environments; sedimentary geochemistry; deep marine sedimentation and

turbidities.

Pharmaceuticals


CH311 Organic Chemistry 1 5 Two hour examination

This course comprises lectures and tutorials, and expands upon the fundamentals of organic chemistry covered in years

1 and 2. Heterocyclic chemistry, chemistry of biomolecules, structure and reactivity, determination of reaction

mechanism, retrosynthesis and stereochemistry are introduced and studied in detail. The course emphasizes chemistry

of relevance to modern industry, including the (bio)pharmaceutical industry.


1. Understand the structure, bonding and the influence of the heteroatom(s) of pyridine, pyrrole, indole,

thiophene, furan, diazoles, triazoles and tetrazoles, and the affect on reactivity.

2. Write reaction schemes and give curly arrow mechanisms for aromatic substitutions on the above heterocycles,

as well as Diels-Alder and 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions.

3. Understand the chemistry of peptide synthesis

4. Understand how organic structure and reactivity are related quantitatively & approaches to determining

organic reaction mechanism

5. Use a retrosynthetic approach to design a multistep synthesis for a carbon based molecule

6. Apply basic stereochemical principles to the structure and reactions of carbon based molecules

7. Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and function of biomolecules

8. Demonstrate an understanding of protein structure in the context of the properties of amino acid residues, the

peptide backbone and environmental factors


CH332 Drug Design and Drug Discovery 1 10 Two hour examination

This module deals with how basic concepts regarding molecular structure and function relate to drug design &

discovery. The module will have a theory and practical component. The theory component will deal with

thermodynamics, molecular modeling, protein structure, natural products, heterocycles and how these related to drug

design & drug discovery. The practical component will focus on computational methods and how they are appied in

drug design.


1. Relate concepts in molecular mechanics to thermodynamic properties of ligand-protein interactions (enthalpy,

entropy, the role of solvent)

2. Understand classical mechanical force fields and molecular dynamics simulations

3. Be competent in accessing and retreiving data from structure databases, and in using computational software

to analyze and vizualize molecular complexes

4. Define the issues associated with computational conformational sampling, automated docking, and binding

energy calculations

5. Understand the historical and current importance of natural products as drugs and drug leads and identify the

most important natural sources for drug discovery

6. Describe the advantages, challenges as well as concepts and methods used in natural product drug discovery

7. Describe the role of heterocyclic molecules in drug discovery, including the mechanism of action of anticancer

and antiviral agents (e.g. mitomycin C and AZT)

8. Understand biosynthetic and drug activation reactions involving DNA, RNA, ATP, cAMP, S-adenosyl methionine

and NQO1.


PM208 Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology 1 5 Two hour examination

This module introduces students to core concepts in Pharmacology. These include Pharmacokinetics: how drugs are

administered, absorbed, distributed around the body, metabolized and excreted; and Pharmacodynamics: how drugs

act on their targets in the body, for instance activating or inhibiting proteins, effects of increasing dose, and the clinical

consequences of both drug pharmacdynamics and pharmackinetics.


PM209

Applied Concepts in Pharmacology

(Please note this module can only be taken

together with PM208. It is not available on

its own) 1 5 Two hour examination

This module introduces students to drug action on the autonomic nervous system and to the process of discovering and

developing new drugs

Pure and Natural Sciences


BO202 Evolution and the Tree of Life 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: This module is focused on key concepts in evolutionary biology including evolution at the molecular

and organismal levels, palaeontology and an introduction to classification and phylogeny. It will also include some of

the major evolutionary events in biology such as the origin of the first prokaryotic and eukarytoic cells and the origin of

plants and animals as well as systematics of the major groups of organisms.


BPS302 Plant Ecology 1 5 Two hour examination

Plant ecology is the study of plants and plant interactions in the context of their environments, with a particular focus on

ecological concepts and processes. Students are introduced to the concepts and practice of vegetation analysis and

ecology, phytosociology and plant-soil relationships.


1 Understand the principles and concepts of plant ecology

2 Understand the concepts of phytosociology, as applied to the principal Irish plant communities

3 Underake a phytosociology vegetation analysis and complete a field report of this analysis

4 Have a scientific appreciation of the ecology, structure and vegetation description of principal habitats in Ireland

5 Develop skills in use of computers for the analysis of phytosociological data

6 Understand the effects of different soil types and characterisics on plant communities


BPS303 Soils, Climate and Palaeoecology 1 5 Two hour examination

Module provides an introduction to plant interactions with their physical environment (soil and climate). Key geological

concepts of relevance to plants are introduced (rock type, geological time, fossilisation process). Causes &

consequences of climate changes during the Quaternary period are considered in relation to vegetation. Use of pollen

and leaf shape analysis to interpret past environments and measurement of soil characters. Research essay to build

critical analysis/writing skills.


1 Understand the causes of changes in plant communities over the last 2.5 million years (Quaternary period).

2 Understand basic geological concepts such as geological time and the processes of plant fossilisation

3 Understand the causes and consequences of climate change over the last 2.5 million years, including modern climate

change issues.

4 Be able to undertake some of the most common palaeobotanical techniques (pollen analysis and CLAMP (leaf

shape) analysis).

5 Understand the concepts and uses of key climate proxies for interpreting past periods of climate change

6 Describe, measure and calculate key soil characteristics and critically assess the links between plants, soil and

environmental variables.

7 Be able to research and write a scientific research essay and understand correct referencing.


CH203 Physical Chemistry 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: This course comprises lectures and tutorials and a practical component, expanding upon the

fundamentals of chemistry covered in year 1. The course provides an introduction to the physical principles that underlie

chemistry with a focus on the properties of gaseous matter, laws of thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium and kinetics

and introduction to spectroscopy


CH204 Inorganic Chemistry 1 5 Two hour examination

Module Description: In this module the students will learn about organic chemical functional groups and their reactions

& reactivity, building on the knowledge gained in year one. There will be a theory and practical component. The

theory component will deal with mechanism, reactions, reactivity and structure. In the practical component basic

synthetic and analytical techniques used in the organic chemistry laboratory will be introduced


CH207 Computers in Chemistry 1 10 Continuous Assessment

Module Description: The module consists of a number of units designed to provide hands on experience of the most

important softwages packages currently being used by professional chemists, and other molecular scientists. These

include Word and Excel (graphing), molecular modelling and graphics software, and e-literature search tools; a

presentation is prepared using PowerPoint, and delivered to the group. The module is assessed on the basis of reports

submitted for each unit.


CH326

Analytical Chemistry and Molecular

Structure 1 5 Two hour examination

A variety of analytical techniques and their application will be covered. Also included will be methods (e.g. NMR, IR,

MS, X-ray crystallography) which are used in structure determination of chemical compounds. This is a theory based

module. A practical component related to this module will run parallel with this course (Experimental Chemistry I).


Understand the basic principles and main components of important surface analytical techniques such as SEM-

EDX, SIMS and XPS and be able to interpret the chemical and structural data obtained using these techniques.

Understand the basic concepts of crystallography such as crystal systems and Bravis lattices and have the

ability to index simple X-ray powder diffraction patterns and to calculate unit cell parameters and densities

from X-ray powder data.

Relate their knowledge of the theory and instrumentation of gas-liquid chromatography to the design of a

variety of seprations.

Explain the theory of X-ray Fluorescence spectroscopy and the origin of the spectral lines.

Describe the basic experimental and theoretical issues involved in obtaining an NMR spectrum and to deduce

the structure of a molecule on the basis of information obtained from its 1H- and 13C- NMR spectra.

Understand the theoretical principles, instrumentation, operation and data interpretation of thermogravimetry

and differerential scanning calorimetry. They will also understand the theoretical principles and applications of

gas sensors based on electrochemical and combustion methods.

Explain the machinery and chemical basis behind mass spectrometry including ion generation, separation,

detection and the fragmentation mechanisms and be able to apply mass spectra to the analysis of known and

unknown compounds.

Describe the operation of analytical HPLC instruments in relation to pumping systems, injection valves,

columns and detectors and to identify the key features in HPLC applications relating to the analysis of

pharmaceuticals and related materials.


EOS104.1 Introduction to Earth and Ocean Science 1 5

This module will introduce students to the breadth of topics covered in Earth & Ocean Sciences. It assumes no previous

knowledge of subjects such as geography. It will outline the following: The Solar System; Earth’s Structure;

Oceanography; Hydrogeology; Earth’s Crust; Tectonics; The Biosphere; Geo-environments and Natural Hazards. The

lecture course will be linked to practical sessions in a choice of one out of four time-slots per week.

Structure

Solar system, galaxies and stars, the Sun, the planets.

Gravity and Earth rotation, seismic structure, magnetic field.

Evolution of atmosphere, chemical and physical oceanography.

Hydrogeology, the water cycle, ground water and its protection.

Minerals and rocks, Geological time, surface processes.

Seafloor spreading, plate tectonics, dating of rocks

Evolution of organisms, fossils.

Energy resources, Irish ore deposits, natural hazards.


EOS324 Applied Palaeobiology 1 5 Two hour examination

This module will focus on the use of fossils as tools for interpreting past (palaeo) environments.


PH101.I Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

Section A: Mechanics, properties of matter and heat

Vectors

Statics

One dimensional motion - Mark's Kinematic Equations Solver

Newton's laws

Work and energy

Momentum

Motion in a plane

Circular motion

Rigid bodies

Properties of matter, gases

Temperature, gas laws, thermal properties


http://www.nuigalway.ie/physics/courses/kinematic.html

PH101 * Physics 1 & 2 15

Two hour examination each

semester

A one year introductory course in Physics consisting of lectures on topics such as the following: Mechanics, heat, sound,

Electricity and magnetism, Light atomic and nuclear physics.

Students also attend a weekly laboratory session

*This is a full year course.


PH215 Electricity, Magnetism & Electrical Circuits 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides an in-depth study of Electric and Magnetic fields and forces using calculus and vector techniques.

The principles developed will be applied to dc and ac circuit analysis.


PH216 Mechanics 1 5 Two hour examination

In this module calculus and vector techniques are used to study the motion of objects and see how forces affect this

motion. Linear motion and rotational motion are both considered. Energy-based methods are applied to study

problems involving non-uniform forces. This module also includes a short introduction to the use of computational

methods and computers to solve physics problems.


PH222 Astrophysical Concepts 1 5 Two hour examination

Major astrophysical concepts and processes such as radiation, dynamics and gravity are presented. These concepts

are illustrated by wide ranging examples from stars and planets to nebulae, galaxies and black holes.


PH328 Physics of the Environment I 1 5 Two hour examination

Emphasis is on environmental physics and how physical properties may be monitored. Introductory Physics background Molecular transfer processes. Diffusion and convection currents. Measurement of relative humidity, temperature, pressure. The electromagnetic radiation spectrum.

Air Quality

Heat conduction, convection, and radiation. Global warming. Greenhouse gases. Ozone and UV radiation. Aerosols. Air quality measurement and control. Air Quality Standards. Clean room technology.

Effects of aerosols and pollutants on climate.

Built environment

Insulation. Heat pumps. Thermal pollution. Humidity/condensation. Fluid transport. Fluid dynamics. Physical sensors for water quality monitoring. Elementary data logging, recording, and analysis. Acoustics. Noise in the environment. Renewable energy sources. Environmental aspects of renewable energy sources. Energy use/waste in society.

Spectroscopy and radiation

Spectroscopic techniques for pollutant monitoring. Overview of visible, UV, IR spectroscopy. Raman scattering. Remote sensing. Light and its measurement. Illumination. Microwaves. Radiation monitoring. Effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Nuclear energy. Fission, fusion, and radioactive waste. Waste treatment. Overview of hazardous materials. Environmental protection studies.


PH331 Wave Optics 1 5 2 hour examination

This module provides an in-depth introduction to wave optics and its applications. It will cover topics required for the

understanding of modern imaging and photonics, including polarisation, diffraction and interference. The course

involves developing skills in solving practical problems, and students will perform relevant optics experiments in the

laboratory (Michelson interferometer, Fourier Optics, Scanning monochromator, ray tracing).


PH332 Electronics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides students with an overview of the key components and systems in analog and digital electronics.

The underlying principles of semiconductor materials, binary numbers, Boolean logic, and sequential logic, form the

platform for understanding of higher level device/circuit design and performance. The functionality of some of the

more common and useful specific electronic devices is explored. We explain the integration of such components into

higher-level microprocessors, and study the instructions sets used to programme them.


PH333 Quantum Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides an introduction to quantum physics. It describes the origin of quantum physics using the theories

of Planck for blackbody radiation and Einstein for specific heat. The course then progresses to describe matter using

wave functions. The Schrodinger equation is introduced and solved for a number of model problems. The

development of operators to extract information from matter waves is considered next. The formal structure of

quantum mechanics is then introduced. The course finally considers a two identical particle problem and introduces

the concept of the Pauli Exclusion Principle.


PH334 Computational Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

Techniques and applications of computational physics are described. In accompanying practical classes, programs

are written in a modern computer language to investigate physical systems, with an emphasis on dynamical problems.


PH339 Radiation and Medical Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides an introduction to the medical imaging and instrumentation aspects of real imaging environments,

ranging from obsolete modalities to the modern tomographic imaging modalities (such as PET and SPECT). This module

also covers the fundamental processes involved in forming images using ionising radiation, safety issues associated with

ionising radiation and methods of radiation detection.


PH421 Quantum Mechanics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the principles of Quantum Mechanics. The

principles will be used to analyse simple physical systems and to approximate more complex problems successfully.


define terms and explain concepts relating to the physical principles covered by this module’s syllabus.

describe the physical laws that connect terms and concepts covered by this module’s syllabus and, where


outline applications to real-world situations of the physical principles covered by this module’s syllabus.

analyze physical situations using concepts, laws and techniques learned in this module.

identify and apply pertinent physics concepts, and appropriate mathematical techniques, to solve physics



PH422 Solid State Physics 1 5 Two hour examination

This module provides students with an advanced understanding of the fundamental properties of solids due to the

regular arrangement of atoms in crystalline structures. Simple models are developed using quantum-mechanical and

semi-classical principles to explain electronic, thermal, magnetic and optical properties of solids.










PH423 Applied Optics and Imaging 1 5 Two hour examination

This module will be an in-depth course on Applied Optics and Imaging, building on previous courses, in particular PH3X1

Wave Optics. Students will learn to solve advanced problems on both geometrical and wave optics, and will carry out

assignments using ray tracing software and Matlab or similar. The course will include an introduction to modern imaging

techniques, including adaptive optics, as applied to imaging through turbulence.










PH426 * Problem Solving and Physics Research Skills 1 & 2 5 Departmental Assessment

There are two components to this module:

1. Researched essay on an assigned Physics topic: Each student will be mentored by a supervisor, who will provide

feedback to the student. Skills developed will include literature searching and structuring evidence-based scientific

arguments to support viewpoints. Students will learn how to cite reference material correctly. Students will also be

instructed on plagiarism and the ethics of scientific writing.

2. Problem solving: A lecture-based course will develop problem-solving skills including problem definition, solution

searching, dimensional analysis and application of physics skills learned in the

first three years of the programme. In particular, topics from different courses will be combined to widen students'

appreciation of problem solving away from the tightly-defined context of lecture courses.

*This is a full year programme. Students must be enrolled for a full year to take this course.


PH428 Atmospheric Physics and Climate Change 1 5 Two hour examination

This course provides a thorough introduction to atmospheric processes and their relevance to current topics of interest

such as climate change, ozone depletion, and air pollution.










themes in physics research and technology.


PH466 Astrophysics 1 5 Two hour examination

In this course, we look at a number a number of astrophysics problems that have not been examined in detail in other

modules in the programme. The course begins with an analysis of non-thermal radiation processes including

synchrotron radiation, Compton scattering and inverse Compton scattering. We then examine these processes in

different astrophysical environments – pulsars, active galactic nuclei, shocks in the interstellar medium, accretion disks

and supernovae.










themes in astrophysics.

Module

Code


TI151 Principles of Physical Geography 1 5 Two hour written examination

Semester 1 students are introduced to physical geography. Here, insight to, and understanding of, the fundamental

concepts and principles of physical geography; how the physical environment functions, how different environmental

systems interact and how the physical environment impacts on human activities are all central. In considering the various

building blocks that make up these environmental systems, such as atmosphere, landforms and the biosphere, the course

provides an initial understanding of these fundamental components and an insight into the richness of the physical

geography of Ireland and beyond.

This introductory course in physical geography aims to:

introduce students to fundamental concepts and principles of physical

geography;

encourage students to understand the natural world around them;

explore how geographers have gained knowledge of the natural world and have contributed so much to this

understanding;

provide an insight into the myriad processes at work in the natural world;

provide students with an insight into aspects of the rich physical geography of Ireland.

On completion of this course students will be able to:

outline key ideas used by geographers in their attempt to understand the natural world;

consider how the natural world operates in terms of features and processes and how these interlink;

explain core ideas in biogeography (the biosphere), global soils and earth materials (the geosphere), climate

and weather (the atmosphere);

provide a greater understanding of some aspects of the physical geography of Ireland;

learn to engage with and critically evaluate ideas and understanding about the natural world around us.

Code Module Description Semester ECTS Examination Arrangements

TI241 Principles in Physical Geography 1 5 CA, 2 hour examination

Description of Course

Our surrounding environment is constantly evolving and adapting to various pressures and influences. In order to

understand these changes, and in turn be in a position to predict future changes, it is vital for Geographers to be

able to investigate, analyse, and comprehend the processes involved in environmental change. Focusing on the

themes of soil, air, water, and ecology, this course will outline why the protection, upkeep, and continued survival of

each of these features is vital. The course will do this through the examination of legislation and policies, while also

showing how data is gathered from each of the sources.

Aims and objectives

Highlight to students why soil, air, water, and ecology are important for Earth’s systems processes.

Outline various Irish legislation and policies used to protect our natural environment, and indicate where any

improvements need to be introduced.

Details will be provided as to how Geographers go about gathering data and investigating changes in terms of soil,

air, water, and ecology.

Learning outcomes

An understanding of the importance of soil, air, water, and ecology.

An ability to apply lecture-based knowledge to our surrounding environment.

An ability to critically assess methods data gathering.

An insight in to the legislation used to protect our natural environment in Ireland.

A subsidiary objective will be the development of writing skills.

Methods of Assessment

70% for final 2 hour examination (2 questions to be answered from 5); 30% for assignment.

Resources

The lectures provide a framework around which students can structure their learning, but account for only part of the

course. Additional resources provided online are an integral part of the course, and the lectures and the assessments

have been designed for students who have engaged fully with those resources, including the set readings associated

with lectures. It is essential that you refer to the online resources for the course as a whole and for each week’s

lecture, and that you complete any set pre-reading before each lecture.

Module

Code


TI242

Elements of the Geography of

Ireland II

1 5 Essay; 2 hour examination

This course merges the relevant areas of climatology and ecology into the interdisciplinary study of ecological

climatology. Aspects of both are investigated in order to understand how natural and human influences on

vegetation can affect our climate. This becomes increasingly important in the contemporary world as humans are

increasingly altering vegetation patterns. The primary theme of this course is that ecosystems are important

determinants of climate through their cycling of energy, chemicals, water and gases. Subsequently, physical,

biological and chemical processes which affect ecosystems will be examined on timescales ranging from seconds to

millennia. Through this course students will develop an understanding of climatology, geology, hydrology and

ecology to show how changes in land-use and land cover affect climate.

Module

Code


TI303 Coastal Dynamics 1 5 Continuous assessment

The coastal zone exists at the interface of land, sea and atmosphere, making it a highly complex environment. Only

through improved understanding of the processes operating in this zone can we hope to understand and manage

this valuable resource in a sustainable manner. This course introduces the basic concepts of coastal science. The role

of waves, wind and sea-level in shaping the coast are explored. Conversely, the shape of coastal landforms affects

these processes; this interaction between process and form is considered within a morphodynamic framework.

Topics covered

Introduction to Course, Coastal systems, Wave processes, Sediments, Shoreface, Nearshore-Zone, Aeolian processes,

Beaches, Coastal Dunes, Tidal processes, Beach dune ecology and Beach dune management

Module

Code


TI318 Climate Change 1 5 CA, 2 hour examination

This course sets out to examine climate change with particular emphasis on the major factors controlling climate

change, the climate history of the last 2,000 years and the issue of global warming with reference to Ireland.

The 2007 Intergovernmental Report on Climate Change (IPCC) state that the world is facing a significant challenge in

terms of climate change, one which will affect all life on this planet. An assessment affirmed by the 2009

Copenhagen Conference.

Ireland warmed up by 0.420C per decade between 1980 and 2004, about twice the levels of increase globally

(Sweeney and McElwain 2007). Ireland has warmed up by 0.50C mean temperature between the 1961-1990 period

and the 1981-2010 period. Rainfall totals have increased by 5% between the 1961-1990 period and the 1981-2010

period (Walsh, 2012). Globally 2010 was the joint warmest year on record since systematic instrumental records began

in 1860, whereas 2011 was only the joint 11th warmest. However the decade of 2000-2009 was the warmest on

record.

The course is broken down into four parts. The first will provide an introduction to key factors controlling climate

change. The second part of the course will look at the climate of the last 2,000 years up to AD 1850. The third part of

the course will critically examine global warming from AD 1850 onwards with special emphasis on Ireland. The fourth

component of the course is the continuous assessment consisting of one practical and one essay.

Module

Code


TI338 Palaeoecology- Reconstructing Past

environments

1 5

CA; 2 hour exam

The Irish landscape as we know it today is governed by what has happened in the past. Both climate change and

anthropogenic factors have played significant roles in shaping the development of the landscape. The objectives of

this module are to introduce the student to palaeoenvironmental methods, in particular pollen analysis, as a means

of interpreting the past 15, 000 years of vegetation and environmental change in Ireland. The course will consist of a

series of lectures and 4 laboratory sessions where students will use microscope techniques to identify and count fossil

pollen grains.

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

understand the main principles of pollen analysis

understand the key vegetation changes that have occurred in Ireland since the end of the Ice Age

have an appreciation of the role people have played in shaping the Irish landscape

have a greater understanding of the natural world

interpret a pollen diagram

Module

Code


TI368 Fundamentals of Aeolian

Geomorphology

1 5 CA;

This courses examines processes that lead to the formation of aeolian landforms (e.g. sand dunes) and the impact of

process dynamics (e.g. sediment transport, climate) on the long-term development of aeolian systems (e.g. deserts).

Students will use a systems approach to examine short-long term controls on sediment budgets; critique different

research techniques (e.g. high frequency sensors, remote sensing, GIS, deep sea cores); and assess current

management issues (e.g. desertification).

Renewable Energy

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Mechanical

Engineering ME223













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Mechanical










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Sustainable Agricultural Production

Code Course Sem ECTS

Examination

Arrangements

BPS304

AgriBiosciences for Sustainable Global

Development 1 5

Two hour

examination

Life forms arose on earth 3.5 billion years ago, yet human civilisation emerged ~10,000 years due to

domestication of plants & animals (the advent of agriculture). By 2050, the human population will be 9

billion (9000 million) people with requirements for food, feed, fuel (energy), fibre, fuel, chemicals &

medicines to sustain their health & livelihoods. Agribiosciences innovations are required to ensure future

food security & sustainable development, particularly in developing countries.

The food security and sustainable development challenges facing humanity are immense and growing

daily, particularly in developing countries. The bio-derived resource demands of humans will continue to

increase over the coming decades posing “mega-challenges” for sustainable development. Two thousand

years ago there were only 20 million people on the planet. In 2045, the human population will reach 9 billion

(9000 million) people all of whom have requirements for food, feed, fuel (energy), fibre, fuel, chemicals and

medicines to sustain their health and livelihoods. As incomes and purchasing power rises, such resource

requirements will rise also. Where food and energy supply does not keep pace with demand, this leads to

price rises that disproportionately affect the poor and poorest in all societies.

AgriBiosciences innovations have an important role to play in relation to such challenges and are

emphasised in this module. This module will allow students to gain an understanding and critical appraisal

of the major food security and sustainable development challenges facing humanity, particularly in

developing countries. This will include analysis of the roles that science and technology can play in helping

to address such challenges. The module has a particular emphasis on the interplay between agriculture,

food, energy, climate change and resource constraints and how agribiosciences innovations are of

relevance. One of the greatest technical challenges is to accelerate the development and introduction of

new suites of productivity-increasing bio-based technologies (for crops, animals, algae, fish, forestry and

food), that are sustainable in the sense that they do not themselves inflict damage on the soil, water and

ecological resources as well as on the atmospheric conditions on which future food output depends.

Topics covered in the module include; Sustainable global development; food and livelihood security; drivers

of famines; human population growth and demographics; consumption patterns; urban and rural poverty;

malnutrition, undernutrition, overnutrition and chronic disease; major drivers of mortality and morbidity;

agriculture, diet, nutrition and global health; communicable diseases and global health; food supply and

demand dynamics; agricultural productivity; sustainable intensification and low-input farming; emerging

resource constraints; energy demand; climate change & low carbon economy; clean and renewable

energy; bioenergy & biorefineries; environmental footprints of different agri-production systems; sustainable

livestock; climate change, global warming & low carbon economy; climate adaptation and mitigation in

agriculture; planetary boundaries facing humanity.

All topics will be covered from the perspective of critically appraising what agbiosciences innovations may

be necessary to help address the growing portfolio of mega-challenges. Students will engage in tutorials to

present, discuss and critically appraise the topics in the module along with the latest scientific literature, and

will develop their critical thinking and scientific presentation skills through an Ignite rapid presentation format

at the end of the module.

Module

Code


TI331 Geography of Tourism and

Recreation

1 5 CA; 2 hour examination

Tourism and recreation are interrelated phenomena and have inherently geographical dimensions. Both involve

movement of people between places (albeit on different scales) and multi dimensional environmental resource uses

which incorporate cultural, economic, physical and social elements. Growing levels of disposable income, significant

reductions in the cost of international travel and increased leisure time, particularly in contemporary western societies,

have contributedto increase the flows of tourists internationally and the demand for recreational experiences. World

Tourism Organisation figures show that tourism is one of the fastest growing service sectors internationally and its

influence extends well beyond the economic realm. Society, culture, the built and natural environments are also

impacted on to varying degrees. This course discusses key concepts relating to the geographies of contemporary

tourism and recreation and provides examples from a range of international contexts. The concepts and examples are

explored through the medium of seven major themes and associated sub-themes: the relationships between tourism

and recreation; the demand for tourism and recreation; the supply of tourism and recreation facilities; performance

and performativity for and by tourists; commodification for tourism and recreation; issues of sustainability; policy and

planning issues. Tourism or recreation?

Objectives

The course has three main objectives:

To examine key features of contemporary tourism and recreation, as they find expression in

particular places, and to locate them within broader processes of local-global interaction;

To employ a series of well-recognized concepts that relate to tourism and recreation in order to

achieve a more advanced level of understanding of the spatial processes at work;

To support individual study and research by providing a knowledge base and understanding of

the role of theory and concepts in the context of the geography of tourism and recreation.

Learning outcomes

Critical awareness of tourism and recreation as spatial practices

Critical awareness of the role of theory in providing understanding of the spatial dimensions of tourism and recreation

Capacities for individual study and research, including presentation of a reasoned argument and

application of concepts and theory in written formats.

Module

Code


TI332 Local Development: Theory and

Practice

1 5 Essay, 2 hour examination

Theory and practice of local development (a territorial based approach to meeting local development challenges) are

explored in diverse geographic settings, including advanced economies, post-socialist east European member states of

the EU and other developing countries. In addition to enabling the local productive system to compete successfully in

an increasingly globalised environment, local development is shown to encompass the promotion of economic, social

and cultural well-being in an inclusive and sustainable fashion. Strategic planning at the local territorial scale to

facilitate a considered and coordinated approach to local development is explored and new governance

arrangements to facilitate local development are assessed.

Learning Outcomes

Critical understanding of theoretical constructs informing local development.

Critical awareness of the challenges associated with local development in practice

An appreciation of why places matter or why geography is not history!

Module

Code


TI369 Geographical Perspectives on Rural

Change

1 5 CA, 2 hour examination

This course evolves from the appreciation that Rural Geography has emerged in recent years as a significant element of

the geographical discipline and has been the subject of many textbooks and journal articles. These mirror the changing

nature of rurality and rural space, and highlight attempts to bring a broader theoretical framework and insight into the

rural domain. Issues such as, imagining the rural; exploiting the rural; developing the rural and living in the rural are

contemporary issues which this course seeks to address. Including many examples from Ireland and the broader

European Union the course will investigate different understandings of what rural entails and from a theoretical

standpoint, the conceptualizations that enlighten our perception of the rural and its continued sustainability.

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