Higher Cert in Eng in Agri Mechanisation (LIT)

Duration: 2 years

Qualification & Awarding Body:

1. Level 6 Higher Certificate in Engineering in Agriculture Mechanisation from TUS - Technological University of the Shannon: (previously LIT)

2. The graduate also qualifies as a "Young Trained Farmer"

Course Code: US 651 

Locations: 

1. Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry &

2. TUS - Technological University of the Shannon: (previously LIT)

Application: CAO (2022 points 222)

Minimum Entry Requirements: A minimum of 5 O6/H7 grades in Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English or Irish.

Maintenance Grant: Application through SUSI  (Means Tested).

Year 1 Modules:

• Introduction to Tractor Engineering and Workshop Processes

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the basics of farm tractors and workshop repair processes for example diesel engines, hydraulics, brakes and transmissions and welding.

• Introduction to Electrical & Electronic Technology

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the basics of farm machinery electrics and electronics. Areas of study include the use of the multimeter, wiring circuits of agricultural machinery, testing and diagnostics of issues in wiring and electronic circuits.

• Machinery Operations

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to operation, setup and maintenance of agricultural equipment such as modern Grass and forage equipment, Tillage equipment.

• Introduction to Agricultural Engineering Science and Mathematics

Introduce the learner to the basics of engineering science and mathematics, and how to apply these to problems in the field of agricultural technology.

• Project

The focus in this module is to prepare the student for the working environment and this is achieved by the correct planning, organisation and repair or fabrication of equipment used by the agricultural industry. Projects are fabrication or repair based for example:

Fabrication- log splitters, post driver and bale handlers

Repair – Tractor engines, clutches, brakes, hydraulic, transmissions or machinery repair.

• Computer Applications including CAD

In this module the students study engineering design and drawing. Also involved is commercial packages used in agriculture.

Year 2 Modules

• Industrial Placement

Students complete 30 weeks work placement in agricultural dealerships/garages, fabricators, large contractors and with foreign placement also available with large scale combine and forage harvesting crews. The placement will give students the opportunity to put into practice what they have learned in college.

• Intermediate Tractor Engineering

Introduce the learner to more complex aspects of the modern tractor such as modern engine features, modern tractor transmissions systems.

• Intermediate Electrical & Electronic Technology

Introduce the learner to the complex electric

Progression: Graduates of the programme can progress to a Bachelor Degree of Engineering in Agricultural Engineering (Level 7) or Bachelor of Engineering in Road Transport, Technology and Management Level 7 at TUS - Technological University of the Shannon: (previously LIT)

Graduates have gained employment in the following areas:

• Machinery Dealerships

• Machinery Importers

• Machinery Manufacturers

• Agricultural Contractors

• Fabricators and Heavy Plant trades

Video Section

Follow the links below to view our student experiences: 
 VIDEO 1       VIDEO 2

Testimonial:

Cathal Fenlon, Wexford

I decided to do this course as I had a keen interest in Agriculture and most importantly Machinery. There was a good balance between practical instruction and the theory side of the course. I gained a great base to start my career at Salesian Agricultural College Pallaskenry and gained confidence in operating and maintaining farm machinery.

For my project I fabricated a bearing press this gave me the opportunity to put both theory and practical learning into use. I had to produce drawings for the project using Autocad and I also got to help out with a wide variety of other projects.

I also felt that practical learning period was very beneficial as I done my placement with Templetouhy Fam Machinery in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. I gained a lot experience in servicing and repairing John Deere tractors and combines.

After completing this course I got the opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship with Templetouhy Farm Machinery Enniscorthy.

I would highly recommend this course as the work placement gave me an insight into what it was like to work in a garage and I learned that this was the career I wanted to pursue.

My advice to future students would be to get involved with the sports teams, and get involved on the farm.

Tomas Lacey

Tipperary

I decided to do this course as I had a keen interest in agricultural machinery and also wanted to get my level 5 qualification in Agriculture while gaining hands on practical skills in machinery and agriculture that would help me in my future career.

This course gave me a solid practical base in general  Agri Mechanics and Fabrication in which I previously had no experience prior to starting this course.

For my project I fabricated a power box which was a big achievement for me as I never had done any fabrication work previously I was delighted to get the opportunity to use skills I learned in class practical’s and put them to use in this project. The skills I learned have really helped me in my career to date.

The advice I would give anyone thinking of doing this course would be that the Salesian Agricultural College Pallaskenry gave me a great experience and sound practical knowledge. I am now furthering my education and doing a Level 8 Degree in Agricultural Engineering with Tralee IT and without going to Pallaskenry I don’t think I could have progressed. I am currently doing work placement with Case New Holland Basildon in the UK, and I am working as part of their demonstration team which involves promoting their agricultural machinery at trade shows and grassland events. I am really enjoying this experience.