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Tech & Engineering
Duration
4 years
Level
Bachelor
Outlook
Growing
This programme covers the design, engineering and construction of timber-based buildings, from traditional timber frame to modern cross-laminated timber (CLT) and modular building systems. You study structural principles, materials science, building physics, and low-energy construction methods aligned with Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standards. Practical laboratory work includes materials testing, moisture analysis and structural load assessments, while studio projects develop your ability to design sustainable, energy-efficient structures. Placement in a timber construction, retrofit or modular-build company is a core part of the degree, giving you real industry experience. A typical week mixes lectures, CAD and BIM software sessions, materials lab work and site visits to live construction projects.
Entry is normally through the CAO, requiring a Leaving Certificate with a minimum of six subjects including English or Irish and Mathematics. Higher-level Maths is strongly advantageous and may be required depending on the specific ATU intake; Construction Studies, Physics or Engineering at Leaving Certificate level is very useful preparation. CAO points for this programme are generally moderate compared to cognate Level 8 engineering programmes. QQI Level 5 or 6 FET awards in Construction Technology, Carpentry or a related discipline provide a recognised progression route for applicants without Leaving Certificate entry. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply through the mature-student CAO pathway, and HEAR and DARE schemes are available for eligible applicants.
Demand for graduates with expertise in sustainable and timber construction is growing strongly in Ireland, driven by Government housing targets, climate action commitments and NZEB building regulations. The retrofit of Ireland's older housing stock is a particular growth area, with significant state investment through the SEAI and local authority programmes creating consistent employment opportunities. Graduates with BIM skills and knowledge of modern methods of construction are especially sought after by employers operating in the offsite and modular-build sector.
AI and machine learning tools are increasingly used in structural analysis, energy modelling and building performance simulation, and you will encounter these through BIM-integrated software during your studies. Automated design optimisation tools are beginning to assist timber engineers in calculating material efficiencies for CLT and frame structures, reducing waste and cost. While AI enhances productivity in design and project management, the hands-on, site-based and regulatory aspects of timber construction technology mean that skilled human technologists remain central to the industry.
1 CAO course lead to this qualification. Points shown are last year's Round 1 score.
Providers and indicative points are curated with AI support. Always double-check with the institution itself.
CAO points (indicative): 260-390 (2024)
* Indicative only: CAO points change every year. Always check the current points on cao.ie and with the institution.
How to apply
Most undergraduate programmes in this field are accessed through the CAO system (cao.ie) with applications typically submitted by 1 February each year; some specialist or Level 8 top-up programmes at technological universities may require a direct application to the provider or a relevant Level 6/7 qualification for advanced entry.
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