Undergraduate

Mechanical Engineering has been taught in TCD since 1842 but in later years as part of a broad based engineering science degree (BAI or Baccalaureus in Arte Ingeniaria, Latin for Bachelor in the Art of Engineering). The present degree structure was introduced in 1979 at a time of major curriculum overhaul and expanding student numbers. This engineering educational model is unique to Trinity College Dublin. The first two (Freshman) years are common for all Engineering students, followed by two (Sophister) years of specialisation to obtain the BAI degree, and a fifth year to obtain the MAI (Masters in the Art of Engineering) degree. The first year serves to consolidate the study of mathematical and physical sciences. Students are introduced to the various facets of engineering through course and laboratory work, as well as project design-based learning. In the second year, the subjects basic to all engineering disciplines are studied and, at the end of the second year, students select the broad branch of engineering in which to specialise.

Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering is one of six specialisations currently offered by the School of Engineering. Our academic staff members also contribute strongly to the Biomedical Engineering programme. Besides the BAI/MAI Engineering course, we are also engaged in the BSc/MAI Engineering with Management course with its own dedicated website (www.tcd.ie/mecheng/engman/). Altogether, we educate some 300 undergraduate students each year, as well as contributing to teaching the first and second year Engineering students. Detailed information on all undergraduate courses offered is available from the School of Engineering.

For prospective students, Engineers Ireland have developed some interesting websites to discover what different disciplines of engineering are involved in: www.steps.ie/students/16-18/what-is-engineering-.aspx and www.engineersireland.ie/charteredengineer.

Students specialising in Mechanical Engineering are entering a broad multidisciplinary field with plenty of opportunities for highly qualified jobs. Our graduates are employed across a wide range of areas, including:

  • engineering consultancy companies engaged in national and international engineering projects,
  • public transport, power generation utilities, renewable energy companies,
  • engineering and manufacturing companies in the automotive and aeronautical sector,
  • companies manufacturing mechanical, electronic, biomedical and pharmaceutical devices and products,
  • academic research and/or teaching institutions, government research bodies,
  • and other fields such as business management, financial and insurance services and IT.

The Careers Advisory Service Team shows where our graduates have ended up after their studies: http://www.tcd.ie/Careers/resources/publications/.