Preparation & Accreditation of Level 7 Engineering Programmes

Accreditation of 3rd level educational programmes by a suitably recognised professional body is of particular relevance in relation to engineering. The completion of a sequence of modules which leads to the attainment of this professionally recognised award is viewed as integral to the undertaking. The engineering technology fields are developing and expanding rapidly and the third level sector must keep abreast of these changes. This is essential if the third level institutions wish to continue delivering programmes which produce graduates who can successfully complete the transition from 3rd level to the various engineering sectors. This paper outlines various aspects of the preparation for, and the facilitation of, the accreditation of a Level 7 Bachelor of Engineering Technology programme in DIT by Engineers Ireland (EI). The generation and presentation of modules which satisfy the programme outcome approach to engineering programme development is overviewed. The accreditation process can be simplified if various steps are taken to ensure that all relevant material is presented to the panel in a logical/coherent fashion. Various personal recommendations are discussed in relation to the layout/structure of supporting documentation as well as presentation of evidence during the accreditation visit.