Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctorate in Engineering (Apprenticeship) Program

The University of Limerick offers a unique four-year, part-time Doctorate in Engineering (Apprenticeship) program designed for experienced professionals seeking to enhance their career and become technical experts in their area of expertise. This program blends academic rigor with practical relevance, focusing on solving real-world problems and recognizing significant research within the practitioner's workplace.

Program Overview

• The program is tailored for those solving highly complex problems in their sectors in innovative ways.
• It is equivalent in status and challenge to a PhD but is specifically designed for professionals applying research-driven thinking to real-world challenges.
• Developed in partnership with Lero, the Research Ireland Centre for Software, this is Ireland's first Level 10 Doctoral program offered as an apprenticeship.

Program Structure

• The program starts with a 12-week qualifier module to identify a problem significant to the industry or profession.
• It is delivered part-time over four years, with blended learning (online lectures and at least one compulsory on-campus day per semester).
• Modules are taught during autumn, spring, and summer semesters.
• Dedicated thesis supervisors and in-company apprenticeship mentors are provided.
• Participation in a 'Community of Practice' for peer-to-peer learning is encouraged.

Yearly Breakdown

Year 1

• Spring Semester: Engineering Doctorate Qualifier module, Research Networking, Digital/Data Research Management, Research Integrity, Research Ethics, Planning Research and Publication, and Developing Ideas and Arguments.
• Summer Semester: Residential week on campus followed by online modules.

Year 2

• Autumn Semester: Research Methods for Professional Practice 1, Research Dissertation 1.
• Spring Semester: Data Strategies and Analysis Techniques for Research 1, Data Strategies and Analysis Techniques for Research 2, Research Methods for Professional Practice 2.
• Summer Semester: Research Dissertation 2, Summer Report 1.

Year 3

• Autumn Semester: Research Dissertation 3.
• Spring Semester: Research Impact & Dissemination, Research Dissertation 4.
• Summer Semester: Research Dissertation 5, Summer Report 2.

Year 4

• Autumn Semester: Research Dissertation 6.
• Spring Semester: Research Conference/Workshop, Research Dissertation 7.
• Summer Semester: Research Dissertation 8, Summer Report 3.

Year 5

• Autumn Semester: Research Dissertation 9.
• Spring Semester: Research Dissertation 10.
• Summer Semester: Exam Board, Graduation.

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with a 2.1 in a relevant subject or recognized prior learning.
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Must be living and working in Ireland with an Irish contract of employment.
• Successful completion of the qualifier module prior to being offered a place.
• Sponsoring company must complete an approval process and commit to supporting the apprentice.

Fees and Funding

• Qualifier Module: €250.
• Annual fee: €1,900.
• Funding available through Generation Apprenticeship for up to 90% of fees.
• Companies can apply for the Apprenticeship Employer Grant of €2,000 per annum.

Graduate Profile

This program can lead to promotion to senior levels in the chosen area of expertise. Graduates have found the experience personally and professionally enriching, opening up new horizons and experiences.