Certificate in Computer Aided Design - Parametric Modelling

Applications are now open for September 2024.

The engineering world is moving rapidly towards collaborative design, facilitated by Computer-Aided Engineering and Design software packages.

Three-dimensional parametric modelling is becoming an increasingly desirable skill for professionals or anyone who wants to work in a wide range of CAD industries.

Parametric modelling is a software tool used in all stages of the design process, from concept to the completion of manufacturing drawing and/or photorealistic images.

The aim of this programme is to develop candidates' CAD - Parametric Modelling skills.

The programme will allow candidates to gain employment as CAD technicians and allow other professionals to up-skill. In addition, it may inspire others into apprenticeships or directly into technical degrees.

Furthermore, additive manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing are ubiquitous, and the learners on the programme will use these technologies, which will help them envision better quality and/or customised products.

There are numerous positions in a variety of sectors that use CAD software, such as the CAD technician/drafters, Architectural technologists, Project Engineers, Interior designers, Graphic Designers, 3D artists, etc.

This programme is designed to provide learners with specialised training in a 3D parametric modelling software, which may inspire them to participate in apprenticeships in industry (e.g. manufacturing apprentice) or to progress onto a technical, engineering, or architectural degree. 

What to expect 

The programme consists of two consecutive modules adapted from our full-time engineering programmes.

The first 10-credit module introduces the Fundamentals of Parametric Modelling to the learner, while the second 5-credit module teaches the learner to an intermediate/advanced level in parametric modelling practices.

The modules of the programme will be delivered sequentially over the academic year equating to 4.5 hours of weekly tuition. 

Unlike the full-time engineering programmes, the modules will be delivered in a blended learning format consisting of weekly onsite and remote practical classes facilitated by the cloud and Microsoft Teams.

Three of the 4.5 weekly hours will be delivered on-site, and 1.5 hours will be delivered synchronously in either the CAD or Additive Manufacturing laboratories.

Both modules will use a variety of pedagogical and assessment practices including practical demonstrations, discussions, and individual and group projects which will allow students to practice and hone their CAD skills. 

The modules will be continually assessed via ongoing assignments coupled with extensive group project work, thereby simulating real-world industrial engineering practices. 

Entry Requirements

The minimum Leaving Certificate requirements necessary for entry onto the programme are:

A grade O6/H7 or better in five Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English or Irish, with a minimum of 160 points

In addition to these requirements, the learner should be keenly interested in Technical Graphics and/or be familiar with a two-dimensional CAD package, and have good ICT skills - as the programme is delivered blended. All applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

For entrants who hold an L6 or higher qualification in an engineering discipline. In accordance with ATU policy, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can be used, where applicable, to gain exemption(s) from a specific module of the programme. ATU is committed to the principles of transparency, equity, and fairness in RPL and to the principle of valuing all learning regardless of the mode or place of its acquisition.

Contact Us

Dr Oliver Mulryan
Email: oliver.mulryan@atu.ie
Tel: +353 (0)91 742399