Biomedical Device Materials MSc

at University of Limerick

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.

Autumn    
 

• Structure of Materials
• Advanced Analysis of Materials 1
• Advanced Materials Processing
• Management Systems Standards

Electives (Choose One)
 

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymers for Biomedical Devices

Spring
 

• Advanced Analysis of Materials 2
• Research Challenges in Materials Science
• Materials Project 1

Electives (Choose One)
 

• Biomaterials 2
• Biomaterials Science: Polymer Therapeutics
• Engineering Alloys
• Plasticity of Conventional and 3D Printed Metals

Summer
 

• Materials Project 2

Applicants for a Master’s 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.

The cost of studying at University of Limerick varies largely depending on the type of university and the degree chosen. More often than not, humanities, arts, and education courses are less expensive than degrees in medical, engineering, or management. Furthermore, students who choose to study at the postgraduate level typically pay higher tuition fees, which again vary depending on the programme chosen.

Most universities provide scholarships or financial aid to students in order to help them offset their tuition costs. Students should be aware that additional course fees and incidental expenses may not be included in tuition. On average, international students can expect to pay €19300 annually, to study in University of Limerick.

There are in excess of 250 medical technology companies in Ireland, exporting €7.9bn worth of product annually, making Ireland the second largest exporter of med tech devices in Europe and employing 25,000 people. Future forecasts by the IDA for the industry have identified the need for Materials related expertise in regenerative medicine and bioprocessing,  The Irish Medical Devices Association states that “The medical technology industry in Ireland is changing from being predominantly manufacturing to being more complex and driven by R&D” and this new M. Sc. programme is designed to empower individuals to create, and participate in, such change.