Program Overview

Precision Engineering – BEng (Hons)

Course Overview

Precision engineering is the high-level manufacturing of engineering parts and assemblies for the medical, aerospace, automotive, oil and gas exploration and related industries. It is a combination of Mechanical engineering and design and high-level manufacturing and production technology.

Students learn to work effectively with manual and CNC machines to produce parts from an initial design to a final product. Parts are designed using CAD systems to develop solutions to engineering problems and when completed the accuracy will measure specialised measurement equipment such as co-ordinate measuring machines (CMM).

Work Placement in the third year offers the opportunity to learn about the industry and gain valuable experience in this vital industry.

Students will work as individuals and in groups on a variety of industrial standard engineering projects. Students will use some of the newest CNC technologies such as advanced CNC machining, robotics in manufacturing, Additive manufacturing, materials engineering and Lean engineering technology.

This programme has been validated by Engineers Ireland.

Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate

• A minimum of 2 H5 & 4 O6/H7 grades in six Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English or Irish.

Mature Applicants

• Candidates applying as mature applicants may be required to attend an interview and may be requested to take an aptitude test to prove their suitability for a place on this programme. Each case is considered individually; for guidance please get in touch with the programme leader.

Level 6 Craft Certificate (Trade) such as Fitting or Toolmaking, or National/Higher Certificate

• Candidates who hold a Senior Trade Certificate and/or National Craft Certificate or holders of a National/Higher Certificate (Level 6) in Engineering or Technology may be considered for admission to Year 2 of this programme subject to a satisfactory interview.

International Applicants

• International applicants should apply directly to the International Office at TUS, allowing plenty of time for completing the visa process. Applications for September start should be made by 1st June at the latest to ensure visas are processed in time. You should familiarise yourself with visa processing times for your country of origin to ensure you make a timely application. Find out more here.

Advanced Entry

• Level 6 Craft Certificate (Trade) such as Fitting or Toolmaking, or National/Higher Certificate
  • Candidates who hold a Senior Trade Certificate and/or National Craft Certificate or holders of a National/Higher Certificate (Level 6) in Engineering or Technology may be considered for admission to Year 2 of this programme subject to a satisfactory interview.
  • Each case is considered individually; for guidance please get in touch with the programme leader.

Course Modules

Year 1

• Engineering Computing
  • Credits: 5
  • This module introduces the learner to ‘Microsoft Office 2016’ computing applications including MS Word, MS Excel, MS Powerpoint, MS Access and MS Project. Learners will start with basic applications and then progress through to an advanced level. The learner will develop a knowledge of how to apply the software to useful engineering applications such as formal report writing (laboratory), charting engineering data, producing equations and creating a technical database.
  • Students will be assessed on their learning by a variety of strategies including Continuous Assessment, Project and Course Work, Examinations and Moodle based assignments. Continuous assessment is worth 40%, Christmas exam is worth 20% and the final exam is worth 40%.
• Engineering Technology
  • Credits: 15
  • The aim of this module is to develop an understanding and a working knowledge of the engineering technology and materials used in industry.
• Introduction to CNC Programming and Operation
  • Credits: 10
  • This module will introduce the learner to Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) technology and machining processes and operations. The emphasis of this modules is mainly focused on CNC programming, setting, and operation. The learner will be required to create part programmes using ISO G and M codes and conversational programming techniques on CNC milling machines and CNC Lathes. Tool setup, work setting and safe operation of the machines is fundamental to the production of components and the learners will be actively using CNC machines to realise their programmes.
• Introduction to Mechanical Engineering Maths
  • Credits: 10
  • Develop a recognition of the basics of engineering mathematics and use them to solve practical engineering problems.
• Mechanical CAD and Design
  • Credits: 10
  • Engineering Drawing is an essential communication technique for those involved in Engineering, the aim of this module is to give the student a comprehensive introduction to the standards used in the preparation of Engineering drawings. Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems are now the typical means by which Engineering drawings are produced, students will use 2D and 3D CAD software to prepare a portfolio of their work.
• Mechanical Engineering Science
  • Credits: 10
  • To develop an understanding of the basic laws of physics and their application to engineering.

Year 2

• CNC Programming (CAM), Setting and Operation
  • Credits: 10
  • The aim of this module is to advance the CNC knowledge and skills of the learner who already has an introductory knowledge of manually programming CNC machines. Through the introduction of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, the learner will develop a greater depth knowledge in current CNC tooling technology and quality standards, analyse tooling usage, speeds, feeds, operation sequencing and machining strategies for greater machining efficiency. The learner will use industrial standard CAM software to program for manufacture, as well as set-up, and operate CNC 3 axis and 5 axis milling machines and CNC lathes with milling capability to manufacture components typical to that produced in the precision engineering industry.
• CAD & Design
  • Credits: 5
  • The use of computer aided design (CAD) systems in industry has become an essential part of the modern working environment. It is used at all stages of the design period, from conceptualisation and production of working drawings to the production of virtual reality images, prototypes, and final products.
• Engineering Technology and Maintenance
  • Credits: 15
  • This module in Engineering Technology and Maintenance introduces the learner to advanced technologies, procedures and techniques as used by the modern mechanical or manufacturing engineer. The module has four main elements including manufacturing processes, metrology, material science, and maintenance.
• Six Sigma and Metrology
  • Credits: 10
  • Metrology is the science of measurement and the practical application in industry is vital to ensuring quality. Six Sigma is a set of methods and tools used to improve business processes by reducing defects and errors, minimizing variation, and increasing quality and efficiency. This module is an introduction to the principles of six sigma and metrology standards to the learner with no prior engineering experience.
• Industrial Machine Mechanics – Statics and Dynamics
  • Credits: 10
  • The aim of this module is to develop a knowledge of the fundamental principles of machine mechanics and dynamics of industrial machinery, to the learner who already has an introduction to engineering science. Knowledge gained from this module will provide the learner with the analytical capability to solve practical and relevant industrial mechanical engineering problems.
• Mech Eng Maths & Programming
  • Credits: 10
  • Strengthen the knowledge of mathematical fundamentals with the aim of solving more complex practical Engineering problems. Developing programming, debugging and engineering computation skills using software such as Visual Basic in Excel.

Year 3 – Semester 1

• Advanced CNC Machining
  • Credits: 5
  • The learner will develop a greater depth of knowledge in current advanced industry standard CNC tooling technology and quality standards, analyse tooling usage, speeds, feeds, operation sequencing, and machining strategies for greater machining efficiency. The learner will program, set up, and operate CNC 5 axis milling machines and lathes with advanced turning and milling capability.
• Advanced Six Sigma and Metrology
  • Credits: 5
  • This module introduces the learner to advanced six sigma tools appropriate for the precision machining industry and other regulated industries such as medical device and aerospace manufacturing. The statistical aspect of the module uses techniques for analysing multiple production systems with the aim of identifying sources of error and variation. They are also used for identifying critical underlying factors and how they interact with other variables in the system. This will enable the learner to develop process optimization plans using design of experiments.
• Materials and Mechanics
  • Credits: 5
  • This module aims to improve the learner’s knowledge and understanding of materials and processes used by engineers. Learners will apply relevant mechanical equations to practical problems by physically testing components and case studies to enable them to select both correct materials and processes.
• Applied Mechanical Engineering Mathematics
  • Credits: 5
  • The aim of this module is to provide a detailed and in-depth understanding of engineering mathematical concepts, which will allow the learner to be able to apply this knowledge to solve practical and relevant mechanical engineering problems.
• Process Planning
  • Credits: 5
  • This module aims to improve the learner’s knowledge and understanding of process planning in a precision engineering environment.
• Group Project
  • Credits: 5
  • This module involves active learning where learners participate in an applied based group project. The group project topic may have industrial links and involves the practical application of research, design, engineering principles, materials analysis, and manufacturing. The group project allows for team development where each member has a defined role to play in the development of a project solution.

Year 3 – Semester 2

• Engineering Work Placement
  • Credits: 15
  • This module is the work placement element for candidates on the Level 7 Degree and Level 8 Honours Degree programmes in Precision Engineering. The aim of this module is to give learners the opportunity to apply the practical skills and theoretical knowledge that they have gained in previous stages of their programmes while being employed in a supervised professional engineering industry.

Year 4

• Additive Manufacturing Technology
  • Credits: 5
  • This module develops the knowledge, understanding and applications of additive manufacturing (AM) processes in engineering. Additive manufacturing is a collection of technologies that used CAD data to produce 3 dimensional physical models and parts through an additive process typically using polymers or metal materials. The learners will evaluate and develop strategies for the production of parts using new technologies and processes to create new components and systems to replace or complement existing manufacturing processes. A clear understanding of the additive manufacturing market and the opportunity to develop new applications forms part of this module.
• Applied Research Project
  • Credits: 10
  • This module aims to develop learners research and evaluation skills through an enquiry based approach project and draws upon the knowledge, skills and competence gain in the previous years of study.
• Automated Manufacturing systems
  • Credits: 5
  • This module involves an in-depth study of automated manufacturing systems for a precision engineering environment. Advanced technologies that integrate precision engineering processes are examined by the learner who already has an in-depth knowledge of the precision engineering processes. The automation for part realisation from the process initialisation to the final stages of production can greatly enhance efficiencies and these are studied in great detail. The manufacturing systems and processes that can be automated are examined.
• Computer Integrated Machining
  • Credits: 5
  • This module in advanced machining integration presents in great detail latest technologies and future technologies for CNC machining management. This module also involves the analysis of the automated handling of components throughout the stages for manufacture while ensuring component identification and verification are achieved for adhering to quality requirements. The learners will gain a detailed knowledge on metal swarf, chips, hazardous particle extraction and coolant management.
• Design for Manufacture and Assembly
  • Credits: 5
  • This module on design for manufacture and assembly investigates the techniques which are used to minimise product cost through the implementation of design and process improvement. Through the analysis of industrial case studies, the learner will implement the principles of design for manufacture and assembly within a controlled environment. Students will also learn about Design for Six Sigma and sustainable manufacturing and the integration of these into industry.
• Engineering Material Selection
  • Credits: 5
  • This module involves an in-depth study of both traditional and novel material types. It will examine both established and developing methods of manufacture and use material selection software packages to enable learners to optimise material and process selection of industrial products.
• Engineering Project Management
  • Credits: 5
  • This module provides the learner with an introduction to formal project management methodologies and the project management environment. Utilising active learning strategies, the module develops the learner’s knowledge and skills in the various tools and techniques for effective project management outlined in the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). The module also provides a platform for the learner to investigate their own personality type, and to develop a deeper awareness of the effects of different personality types on the project team.
• Advanced Engineering Technology
  • Credits: 5
  • This module in advanced engineering technology presents in detail both the traditional and modern manufacturing processes to the learner. Students will analyse cutting tool technology, cutting forces, and wear on tools. Advanced and emerging technologies used in modern precision engineering industries are analysed and reviewed by the learner who already has an introductory knowledge of engineering technologies and manufacturing processes. Modern machine tooling, work and tool holding techniques are also presented.
• Implementation of Lean and six Sigma Systems
  • Credits: 5
  • This module will introduce the learner to the tools required to define and conduct a lean manufacturing project in an industrial environment. The tools will enable a learner to analyse a production process, identify areas which have potential for improvement, define and complete projects. It will also compare the lean manufacturing philosophies for process improvement with Six Sigma, which is another widely used process improvement methodology. These two process improvement techniques are two of the most popular that are being implemented in the manufacturing and service industries.
• Mechanics and Materials Testing
  • Credits: 5
  • This module will give learners a detailed knowledge of the mechanics of materials, how they degrade and fail. They will gain a detailed insight into the current industrial testing methods that are required to obtain material properties and measure their response to degradation and failure.
• Quality and Financial Management Systems
  • Credits: 5
  • With the increase demand in the precision machining industry, the demands on the quality systems employed by companies have also increased correspondingly. This module will focus on setup and management of quality systems within a high tech manufacturing organization primarily focusing on the medical device, automotive and aerospace industries.

Career Opportunities

Programme graduates will work as Precision Engineers in world class manufacturing and production environments and will be highly skilled in areas of CNC machining, CAD/CAM, metrology and material selection methods.

Graduates will typically be employed in one of the following roles: Precision engineer in a world class machining environment; Applications engineer; Design Engineer and Development; Manufacturing engineer; Production engineer; CNC machinist and programmer; Materials engineer; Process control engineer.

Further Study

Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programmes within TUS or elsewhere.