Advanced Polymer Materials - Athlone

This programme offers an understanding of advanced polymers which is vital for engineers and scientists in the design and manufacture of complex devices, and increasingly, this knowledge is playing a key role in the design for recyclability of such devices. Polymer materials and technology industries are growing industries in Ireland with the number of companies rising to 230 which boasts an annual turnover of €2.1 billion. This programme is aimed at technical specialists and leaders in polymer and related industries who requires advanced knowledge of polymer materials. The programmes spans polymer chemical, processing and characterization.



Key Features:



• Level 9 Programme (90 ECTS)



• Online/Blended flexible mode of delivery



• Developed in partnership with relevant industry partners in the medical device and pharma sector.



• Personal and supportive approach to teaching and learning.



• Problem Based Learning (PBL) based approaches will be used to challenge and expand the students’ knowledge, skills and competence as the programme includes a ‘real life’ industrial project so that learners can translate theory to practice.



• Examples of best practice is a key component of the programme as it is delivered by polymer experts immersed in research and latest developments.



• The programme focusses on four key polymer modules in each semester, addressing core level understanding in semester 1 moving to advanced knowledge level in semester 2.

Semester 1

Core Polymer Materials

Core Polymer Processing

Core Polymer Characterisation

Advanced Polymer Chemistry



Semester 2

Advanced Polymer Materials

Advanced Polymer Processing

Advanced Polymer Characterisation

Advanced Polymer Chemistry

Team Project



Semester 3

Research Thesis

Students will complete a thesis based on an agreed research topic which maybe related to their industrial experience or employment. Research topics and proposals will be agreed w early in semester 2.

A level 8 award in an engineering / science discipline or a level 8 award in any discipline with 2 years of relevant work experience in a manufacturing environment.



Applicants that do not have the requisite academic qualifications may gain entry to the programme via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in accordance with the institute’s policies.



If you have worked in the manufacturing industry or have experience in a company working with polymers / plastics this may be considered relevant. The duration and amount of experience would be assessed during our Recognition of Prior Learning process.

1 year part-time. blended.



This programme will be delivered online and TUS Athlone Campus. The flexible approach of delivery of the programme will allow for greater participation, particularly for those who are employed.

Career Opportunities

Polymer graduates find employment in advanced manufacturing industries across Ireland and internationally. Typical roles include process engineers, new product development engineers, material scientists and Research and development engineers in Medtech, Pharma, Automotive and Aerospace companies.