Biomedical Device Materials

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This one year M. Sc. programme is designed to produce highly qualified graduates who have an in-depth knowledge of the instrumentation involved in the analysis and characterisation of materials together with a detailed knowledge of Materials Science and Materials Processing. Specialist modules and a specialised research project will allow students to become fully briefed in Biomedical Device Materials and how such materials interact with the human body. With this knowledge base, graduates could expect to work in the quickly evolving high-tech Biomedical Device industry or to continue their education to PhD level.

OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the programme are:

* To provide science, engineering and technology graduates with a competitive edge for a career in biomedical device companies
* To provide graduates with key analytical skills and knowledge in the latest biopolymer and metallurgical technologies preparing them for a career in biomedical device R & D and / or product design
* To develop graduates with excellence in Materials Science and Engineering capability to underpin National and International Industrial development

PROGRAMME OF STUDY

This Master of Science course is a two Semester plus Summer full time programme based on a modular credit system (90 ECTS) and the course outline is given below. In Semester 1, students study analytical techniques (microscopy, electron microscopy and X-ray analysis; X-ray diffraction; IR-, UV- and Raman-spectroscopy, particle size analysis, NMR spectroscopy, specimen preparation), structure of materials (structure mechanical property relationships for metals, polymers and ceramics, phase transformations with associated strengthening effects, failure processes), advanced materials processing (manufacturing with metals, ceramics, polymers and composites and typical coating methods).

Semester 1 also includes the study of typical management systems which are needed to standardize and audit manufacturing processes and systems in Industry. This module also addresses regulatory affairs for the Biomedical Device Industry. Semester 2 involves further study of analytical techniques and modelling software used for materials development / analysis and affords students exposure to Research challenges in Materials Science. Students choose one specialised elective in each Semester which covers the detailed materials science associated with Biomedical devices and how new materials are being developed which have therapeutic value.

During Semester 2 students choose and begin work on a 45 credit Biomedical Device Materials related research project supervised by highly published internationally recognised experts in Materials Science & Engineering. These projects involve the use of state of the art instrumentation at the University to acquire information on materials and processes suitable for publication in high impact journals or IP protection.

Semester 1

* Structure of Materials
* Advanced Characterisation of Materials 1
* Advanced Materials Processing
* Management Systems

Electives (Choose One)

* Biomaterials Science
* Polymers for Biomedical Devices

Semester 2

* Advanced Characterisation of Materials 2
* Research Challenges in Materials Science
* Materials Project 1

Electives (Choose One)

* Biomaterials 2
* Biomaterials Science: Polymer Therapeutics

Summer Semester

* Materials Project 2

Applicants for a Masters programme must normally have a first or second class Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) in a physical science or engineering subject(s) or equivalent prior learning that is recognised by the University as meeting this requirement. Applicants must also satisfy the English Language Requirements of the University. The University reserves the right to shortlist and interview applicants as deemed necessary.WHAT TO INCLUDE WITH YOUR APPLICATION:Qualification transcripts and/or certificates (including certified English translations if applicable English language qualification(s) (if English is not your first language) A copy of your birth certificate/passportEnglish Language RequirementsApplicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application):Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following: * Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved * Irish Leaving Certificate English Ordinary Level Grade D or above * TOEFL 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based) * IELTS Minimum score of 6.5 with no less than 6 in any one component. * English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) Grade C1 * GCE O level English Language/GCSE English Language Grade C or above * University of Cambridge ESOL Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English - Grade A * GCE Examination Boards Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council School Certificate Pass 1-6Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 TOEFL iBT® test: 90

Taught Postgraduate Programme Funding

* Funding information for Taught Postgraduate Programmes 2014/15 and additional postgraduate funding within the faculties is available by visiting the Faculty websites

Applying for a Scholarship

* The University of Limerick is offering taught postgraduate scholarships to potential applicants for the 2014/15 academic year. The value of each scholarship is 2,000. The successful candidates will receive the scholarship in the form of a reduced fee. The Scholarships will be allocated by the faculties on the basis of financial need and personal statement from the applicants.

Research Postgraduate Funding

* The following bursaries/scholarships for the Research Postgraduate students are administered by the Graduate School. The funding is provided with assistance from the UL Foundation, Campus Life Services and UL Graduate School. The busaries/scholarships are advertised on an annual basis.