Internet of Things Technologies

The Internet of Things (IoT) is about the new connected world, that is fast expanding, based on synergistic integration of Computer Science, Sensor Technology, and Engineering Science and Technology. It concerns the new generation of systems of networked devices that are becoming capable of sensing, transmitting and acting on data, e.g,: wearables, autonomous vehicles, drones, robots, smart homes, smart cities, smart industries, etc (see exemplars in Figure 1 ). The associated IoT coverage ranges from simple sensors at one end to complex services in the “cloud”, and encompasses, among others; electronic engineering, software development/engineering, networking technologies, product design, encryption etc.

A major obstacle to more extensive and sustainable deployment of IoT Technologies is the impending major worldwide shortage of workers with appropriate knowledge and skills. Therefore, in order to ensure that Ireland can compete, and specifically to enable the SME sector to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by R&D in IoT technologies, there is an urgent need to bridge the predicted skills gap. The proposed programme presents real opportunity to its graduates to enter a developing technology support and research roles in industry, and to benefit from rapid career advancement.

The aim of this Dual-Pathway MEng in IoT Technologies programme is to contribute to meeting the skills needs for sustainable IoT deployment and expansion. Specifically, the programmes will produce graduates with: Comprehensive qualifications in research and project management skills that can be directly applied in to high-end research, development and innovation to support engineering practice in the predicted future growth in IoT; Knowledge and competences for design, commissioning and maintenance of IoT systems and processes.