The MSc Medical Device Design programme at National College of Art and Design (NCAD) blends research from the medical and design fields, with insights from industry experts, clinicians and hospital staff.

This course is a one-year, full-time, studio-based programme which places an emphasis on human-centred design innovation. Graduates from creative and technical disciplines study side-by-side in a design studio, working in collaboration with clinical and industry partners.

The learning is a combination of studio projects collaborating with industry, clinicians and hospitals alongside taught modules in human factors, regulatory affairs, research methods and basic medical science.

Studio projects have human-centred briefs, are open in nature and encourage learning through real-world research, ideation through sketching and sketch modelling and final design aided by CAD and 3D printing.

School: National College of Art and Design, School of Design
Course: MSc Medical Device Design
Type: Postgraduate
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Course dates: September 2026 to August 2027
Application deadline: 30 March 2026

Find out more about the course and apply ›

What will I learn during this course?

– How to conduct research and contextual inquiry with users in practice
– How to map out tasks in a manner appropriate to medical device regulatory submissions
– How to conduct user testing in order to validate a design during the design process
– Ideation through sketching and sketch modelling in order to collaborate with engineers, clinicians and other stakeholders
– Using computer-aided design and 3D printing to specify a medical device design

What are the requirements?

– An approved Bachelor's degree at level 8 (2.2 or higher); a broad range of disciplines are accepted
– A statement of interest of 500 words framing your reasons for applying to the programme
– A recent CV
– Certified transcripts of previous programmes followed
– Certified copies of degree, certificates and other appropriate third-level qualifications bearing the official stamp of the institution
– Academic reference (head of school or department preferred)
– Applicants to this studio-based programme must submit visual or supporting documentation that represents their experience, interests and approach to making and problem-solving

What facilities and resources are available?

– 3D printing suite with SLS and SLA printers
– Laser cutter
– CNC milling machines
– Wood and metals workshop
– Welding facilities
– Plastic and silicone forming and moulding
– VR equipment
– Physical computing (Microbit, Arduino, Raspberry Pi and associated sensors)
– Photography studio with green screen
– Finishing and project spaces for prototyping
– Digital camera, audio recording and filming equipment

What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?

Graduates have the opportunity to work in a variety of roles in design and engineering.

Who teaches this course?

– Enda O'Dowd, course leader
– Derek Vallence, course leader

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