Higher Diploma in Engineering in Semiconductor Manufacturing Operations

The Higher Diploma in Engineering in Semiconductor Manufacturing Operations QQI Level 8 Major Award* programme has been created to help address the skill shortages in the Irish ICT sector and will equip full time learners with the knowledge, skills, and competence to undertake a range of tasks at operative level in the clean-room environment for semiconductor manufacturing and/or data centre operations an area having difficulty filling roles. Learners will be provided with the opportunity to assimilate knowledge within an industry focused learning environment through the use of practical sessions in labs and workshops supported by on campus and online interactive learning.
The programme will equip the learner with the knowledge, skills, and competence to undertake a range of tasks at operative level in the cleanroom environment for semiconductor manufacturing and/or data centre operations. The programme will cover many aspects of theory and practice for semiconductor manufacturing, some of which includes electrical and electronic systems, cleanroom technology, automation, structured trouble shooting and manufacturing operations.

The programme assessment strategy will ensure that graduates of the programme will have demonstrated the practical skills necessary to secure internships or employment in the semiconductor manufacturing and data centre operations in Ireland.

Learners will be provided with the opportunity to assimilate knowledge within an industry
focused learning environment. This focus is maintained through the use of practical sessions in labs
and workshops supported by on campus and online interactive learning.

This programme is designed for those graduates of engineering or cognate disciplines aspiring to progress their academic experience to a Level 8 NFQ award, specifically in the area of Semiconductor Manufacturing Operations. The programme is designed for domestic learners with a level of self-motivation and discipline that will drive them through the academic demands of the programme and the independent learning required.

Subject to validation by Quality & Qualifications Ireland*

1. To provide graduates with the ability to advance their career by attaining a qualification which enables them to secure industry entry to junior level positions, or further advancement within their current sphere.
2. To provide the semiconductor manufacturing industry with graduates who possess the requisite attributes to make a positive contribution to industry.
3. To provide learners with an NFQ level 8 major award that will provide them with the knowledge, skill and competence to set them on a progression pathway to further their education in the area of semiconductor and manufacturing practice.
4. To provide graduates with the foundation upon which they can further their studies at NFQ Level 9 in Engineering or one of many engineering-related disciplines (in Ireland or abroad) such as Engineering, Computer Science, Computational Science, Information Systems, IT Management, Technology and Innovation Management.
5. To provide graduates with an environment conducive to personal development established through the use of peer learning, mentoring and formative feedback, thus allowing them to acquire new knowledge and the ability to identify their further learning needs and continuing professional development.
6. To provide a programme of study attractive for female participation in the semiconductor manufacturing field addressing the national lack of diversity in employment in this expanding field.

The direct entry route to this programme requires applicants to evidence discipline specific expertise, including mathematical proficiency to a minimum of NFQ level 7. The following are accepted as appropriate evidence for direct entry:

a. An NFQ Level 8 honours degree in a cognate discipline to Engineering,
or
b. An NFQ level 7 degree in a cognate discipline to Engineering and post qualification discipline-relevant work experience.

City Education Group are committed to providing equal access to education and equal opportunities for mature students.

Students who are 23 years of age or older on 1st January of the year of application can apply directly to this programme.

Mature applicants are required to evidence their potential to succeed through demonstration of ability to pursue the programme at the applicable NFQ level and benefit from the programme of study in question.

Springboard Eligibility:

Full information on your eligibility for the scheme can be found directly on the springboard website. For those who commence the programme and are actively employed at the time of enrolment you will be liable for 10% of the course fee (€450). If you are unemployed your feel will be covered in full if you are deemed eligible for the scheme. Proof of unemployment is required.

Applicants should first ensure that they are registered with springboard+ and can then submit an application through the Springboard+ website a member of the Admissions team will be in contact with you within 1-2 working days to advise you on the next steps to enrolment.