Medical Devices encompasses all products, except medicines, used in healthcare for the diagnosis, prevention, monitoring or treatment of illness or disability. Examples include contact lenses, orthopedic joint replacement, programmable pacemakers, stents, ventilators and laser surgical devices. The medical technology industry in Ireland is changing from being predominantly manufacturing based to becoming increasingly complex, value added and driven by R&D. It now involves the extensive collaboration of a broad range of partners, including research institutions, clinicians, manufacturing companies and government agencies.<br><br>The course is designed to provide students with a range of knowledge and skills for employment in a medical device environment. The medical device industry provides graduate opportunities in design, manufacturing, technical services, customer support and a range of other services that add value to the sector. The course was formulated with industry input in response to a number of recommendations highlighted in the March 2008 Forfás Report on the Future Skills Needs of the Irish Medical Devices Sector. The course specifically addresses the need to upskill scientists, engineers and technologists and the provision of professional development within this sector.