PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Hydrogen Safety Engineering

There is a growing need for specialists in Hydrogen Safety Engineering. The PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Hydrogen Safety Engineering, offered by the University of Ulster, is World’s first higher educational programme that enables graduates to specialise in this new and rapidly advancing field.

The programme is intended for students who pursue careers in hydrogen safety, and for professionals already working in industry (process industry, energy industry, civil works, aerospace industry, automotive industry, etc.), transport and distribution, fire and rescue brigades, insurance, teaching institutions, research institutions and legislative bodies.

Graduates with a PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Hydrogen Safety Engineering will be suitably qualified for employment opportunities at various industrial corporations, governmental bodies, research organisations and educational institutions.

APPLICATION/REGISTRATION

Applications for a place on the course can be made on-line by pressing the Apply Now button in the University of Ulster's Prospectus. Details on how to apply are provided in a step-by-step manner as you go through the on-line application. A brief summary of how to apply and select your study option is given here.

Applications for Academic Year 2012/2013 may be submitted until 17 September 2012. The next starting date of the course is 24 September 2012.

Hydrogen Safety Engineering is of vital importance to the onset and further development of the hydrogen economy. It concerns the study of phenomena connected to the safety of hydrogen e.g. unscheduled releases (permeation, subsonic and supersonic jet releases, cryogenic spills), accidental combustion (premixed combustion, partially-premixed and diffusion combustion, ignition and autoignition, jet fires, deflagration, detonation, thermal loads, pressure and shock waves), and material compatibility (embrittlement, hydrogen attack) to ensure the safety of hydrogen in a variety of practical applications (production, storage, transportation, utilisation, development of infrastructures); including the development and application of mitigation technologies, accident prevention methodologies, and, standards and legal requirements. In addition to providing the student with a systematic understanding of the scientific/technological principles and techniques involved in hydrogen safety, this programme aims at developing the skill and expertise to apply this knowledge to the provision of safety in a wide range of hydrogen applications.

The course consists of six modules, namely,

The topical content of the modules complies with the International Curriculum on Hydrogen Safety Engineering, the development of which is aided by more than 60 experts (see Table 1 at International Curriculum on Hydrogen Safety Engineering). The teaching materials of the course include information derived from (i) the European Summer School on Hydrogen Safety, (ii) the International Short Course Series 'Progress in Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Technologies', (iii) the Joint European Summer School on Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technology, (iv) research projects (HySafe, TrainHy-Prof, HyFLEET, HyRaMP, Hyper, SUPERGEN, HyFIRE, FCTEDI, Reactive Flows & Explosions, Numerical Combustion, the Global Hydrogen Society, Hydrogen Filling Stations Worldwide, NanoHy), etc.

STUDY OPTIONS AND AWARD STRUCTURE OF THE COURSE

The CATS Points gathered by studying the modules of the course contribute to the Final Award of Master of Science in Hydrogen Safety (requiring 180 CATS Points). Students can apply directly to the Master's, or can apply for a PgCert and then move on through the levels PgDip and MSc. To match specific student needs and entry qualifications there are two different study options leading to the Final Award of Master of Science in Hydrogen Safety:

MODULE CONTENT, MODULE DELIVERY AND ASSESSMENT

MODULE PRINCIPLES OF HYDROGEN SAFETY
Click here for the Module Description
Further details may be requested from the Module Coordinator: Dr. A.E. Dahoe (MSc-HSE@ulster.ac.uk).

Module Principles of Hydrogen Safety (30 CATS Points) seeks to develop in students the ability to integrate fundamental knowledge and engineering approaches from a variety of disciplines (thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, combustion) to understand the origin and phenomenology of hydrogen safety problems. This module combines a variety of disciplines into an engineering framework called 'Principles of Hydrogen Safety'. Insight into these principles is developed to enable the student to cope with hydrogen safety problems involving unscheduled gaseous releases and cryogenic spills, dispersion of hydrogen (outdoor and indoor), thermal effects of hydrogen fires, and pressure effects of deflagrations and detonations. The module is taught in the distance learning mode and offered over two semesters of the academic year. It consists of nine lectures. The module is fully on-line and can be studied from anywhere in the world; there is no requirement to attend a specific campus location and there are no examinations. Assessment in this module is as follows. Learners are assessed by two coursework assignments (each contributing 50% towards the overall module result). The first coursework assignment is issued in the beginning of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator in the middle of the module. The second coursework assignment is issued in the middle of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator by the end of the module. The questions of the coursework assignments consist of a combination of problems to be solved, tests of factual knowledge, and short essays. On-line self-assessment and evaluation tools are also used to engage the learner with the subject matter. Each lecture is concluded by a simple multiple choice on-line assessment which must be completed prior to proceeding onto the next lecture.

MODULE HYDROGEN SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES
Further details may be requested from the Module Coordinator: Dr. S.L. Brennan (MSc-HSE@ulster.ac.uk).

Module Hydrogen Safety Technologies (30 CATS Points) concentrates on the state-of-the-art in hydrogen safety technologies which are applicable to all foreseeable hydrogen and fuel systems and applications. It seeks to develop in students an understanding of scientific and engineering principles for hydrogen safety applicable to different sectors in the hydrogen industry. Safety issues relevant to production, distribution, storage and use through to fuel cell safety, and the materials used are introduced; the safety strategies, innovative technologies and devices, as well as solutions associated with each, are being covered. This module elaborates on safety principles and techniques covered by module 'Principles of Hydrogen Safety', and it provides a context for and describes in detail recent advances in the field. The purpose of this module is to give a detailed scientific background and demonstrate application of hydrogen safety engineering principles in practice through various safety technologies and case studies. The module is taught in the distance learning mode and offered over two semesters of the academic year. It consists of nine lectures. The module is fully on-line and can be studied from anywhere in the world; there is no requirement to attend a specific campus location and there are no examinations. Assessment in this module is as follows. Learners are assessed by two coursework assignments (each contributing 50% towards the overall module result). The first coursework assignment is issued in the beginning of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator in the middle of the module. The second coursework assignment is issued in the middle of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator by the end of the module. The questions of the coursework assignments consist of a combination of problems to be solved, tests of factual knowledge, and short essays. On-line self-assessment and evaluation tools are also used to engage the learner with the subject matter. In addition, sample questions will be completed by students early in the semester to enable formative feedback before marked coursework is submitted. Each lecture is concluded by a simple multiple choice on-line assessment which must be completed prior to proceeding onto the next lecture.

Module Regulations, Codes and Standards (30 CATS Points) focuses on developments in regulations, codes and standards (RCS) relevant to safety of fuel cell and hydrogen technologies, systems, and infrastructure. The terminology, hierarchy and content associated with various RCS in the field are covered. Differences in the regulatory framework and several key RCS which are relevant to hydrogen safety globally are analysed in detail. A hydrogen safety engineering framework is presented and the role of RCS within this is taught. The differences between prescriptive and performance-based approaches are explained with examples. Risk assessment methodologies and an appreciation of good practices related to hydrogen applications is given. The module is taught in the distance learning mode and offered over two semesters of the academic year. It consists of nine lectures. The module is fully on-line and can be studied from anywhere in the world; there is no requirement to attend a specific campus location and there are no examinations. Assessment in this module is as follows. Learners are assessed by two coursework assignments (each contributing 50% towards the overall module result). The first coursework assignment is issued in two stages, the first question is issued at the beginning of semester 1 and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator by the middle of semester 1, enabling feedback to be given before the remainder of the coursework is submitted. The second coursework assignment is issued in the middle of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator by the end of the module. The questions of the coursework assignments consist of a combination of problems to be solved, tests of factual knowledge, and short essays. On-line self-assessment and evaluation tools are also used to engage the learner with the subject matter. Each lecture is concluded by a simple multiple choice on-line assessment which must be completed prior to proceeding onto the next lecture.

MODULE HYDROGEN POWERED TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE SAFETY
Further details may be requested from the Module Coordinator: Dr. P. Pimenidou (MSc-HSE@ulster.ac.uk).

Module Hydrogen Powered Transport and Infrastructure Safety (30 CATS Points) covers the need that arises from the current and future aspects of hydrogen technologies (well established or under investigation) as they affect the current public perception on issues in hydrogen safety. The up to date developments and progress in the fields of hydrogen use as an energy carrier for transport, delivery and infrastructure are taught. The module focuses on the safety issues relevant to hydrogen-powered vehicles, current infrastructure of hydrogen distribution and delivery. This module's design complements and enhances the understanding of the knowledge students acquired from modules 'Principles of Hydrogen Safety' and 'Hydrogen Safety Technologies' which is relevant to safety of hydrogen-powered transport and associated infrastructure for on-site production, storage, delivery, refuelling, etc. The module is taught in the distance learning mode and offered over two semesters of the academic year. It consists of nine lectures. The module is fully on-line and can be studied from anywhere in the world; there is no requirement to attend a specific campus location and there are no examinations. Assessment in this module is as follows. Learners are assessed by two coursework assignments (each contributing 50% towards the overall module result). The first coursework assignment is issued in the beginning of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator in the middle of the module. The second coursework assignment is issued in the middle of the module and has to be submitted to the Module Coordinator by the end of the module. The questions of the coursework assignments consist of a combination of problems to be solved, tests of factual knowledge, and short essays. On-line self-assessment and evaluation tools are also used to engage the learner with the subject matter. Each lecture is concluded by a simple multiple choice on-line assessment which must be completed prior to proceeding onto the next lecture.

MODULE PROGRESS IN FUEL CELL AND HYDROGEN TECNOLOGIES
Further details may be requested from the Module Coordinator: Dr. S.L. Brennan (MSc-HSE@ulster.ac.uk).

Module Progress in Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technologies (30 CATS Points) provides the latest knowledge in hydrogen and fuel cell safety issues and advancements in the field of fuel cell and hydrogen technologies. Students acquire further knowledge through dissemination of the latest developments in the field by world leading experts. The module content is updated rapidly with new information as it becomes available through block releases in the form of (i) Summer and winter schools (ii) the International Short Course and Advanced Research Workshop Series 'Progress in Hydrogen Safety', (iii) Advanced Research Workshops, (iv) Thematic Seminars, etc. It elaborates on the topics addressed by Principles of Hydrogen Safety and Hydrogen Safety Technologies and covers advances in different areas, as for example, hydrogen safety engineering, including inherently safe design and mitigation technologies; safety issues in the hydrogen infrastructure; safety issues related to hydrogen-powered vehicles, fuel cell technologies, etc. The module is delivered via block releases and is web supported. The module is offered over two semesters and students must chose two short courses to attend. The assessment in this module is as follows. Learners are assessed by two coursework assignments (each contributing 50% towards the overall module result). There is one piece of coursework per short course. Students submit the coursework in two parts, enabling feedback to be given before the remainder of the coursework is submitted. The questions of the coursework assignments consist of a combination of problems to be solved, tests of factual knowledge, and short essays. choice on-line assessment which must be completed prior to proceeding onto the next lecture.

DISSERTATION MODULE
Further details may be requested from the Module Coordinator: Dr. D.V. Makarov (MSc-HSE@ulster.ac.uk).

MSc candidates are required to carry out a research project leading to a dissertation. This 60 CATS Points fully on-line module requires students to carry out rigorous investigative research into an aspect of hydrogen safety suggested by a student or the Module Coordinator and approved by the Dissertation Committee, consisting of the Course Committee and External Examiner. A dissertation of at most 20000 words and a presentation are then required for assessment. Projects are chosen and carried out on an individual basis, making use of knowledge gained in the taught modules of the course and applying it in a situation appropriate to each student's research interest, employment arrangements and expertise. The project should involve a significant amount of original work on the part of the student, under the guidance of a supervisor(s) appointed by the Dissertation Committee. External advisors may be assigned by the Dissertation Committee. These may be senior researchers at the location of the student where the dissertation is prepared.

For full-time students, this module is offered in Semester 3 of the Academic Year. Part-time students take this module in Semesters 1 and 2 of the Academic Year. Students are expected to have completed Modules Principles of Hydrogen Safety, Hydrogen Safety Technologies, Regulations Codes and Standards, and, one of the two optional Modules Hydrogen Powered Transport and Infrastructure Safety or Progress in Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technologies prior to taking this module.

A non-exhaustive list of dissertation topics is circulated to students before the beginning of the module to assist them with the selection of a dissertation subject. Learners are expected to select a dissertation topic and submit a synopsis of their chosen topic for consideration by the Course Committee in the first two weeks from the start of the module. The synopsis should not exceed two A4 pages in length and include: the title, aims and objectives, summary and research strategy. Students will be informed by the Module Coordinator about the Dissertation Committee's decision regarding their submissions not later than six weeks after the start of the module. Students obtaining the approval by the Course Committee of their selected topic will be required to prepare and present to the Course Committee normally within 3 weeks (full-time) or 6 weeks (part-time):

By the end of the module, the student is expected to submit the dissertation to the Module Coordinator. The dissertation will be assessed by the supervisor and reviewed by at least one other member of the Course Committee, taking into account content, style and presentation. A final summary mark shall be agreed upon.

ADMISSION

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Students can apply directly to the Master's, or can apply for a PgCert and then move on through the levels PgDip and MSc.

Applicants must

EXEMPTIONS

MODULE LISTINGS, CREDITS & FEES

- A PgCert generally has a weighting of 60 CATS Points.
- A PgDip generally has a weighting of 120 CATS Points.
- An MSc/MA generally has a weighting of 180 CATS Points.

The normal cost per credit is £19.50 for EU students and £49.30 for non EU students. Click here to see the Guidance Notes for Students on Home/EU/Overseas Fees Status. The tuition fees of the modules of the Master of Science in Hydrogen Safety Engineering are as follows:

This information should be used only as a guide to the normal costs of a distance learning programme, and the University of Ulster's finance website should be used as the definitive source of fees information.

The Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) is a system whereby academic credits are awarded for courses or parts of courses. These enable students to transfer from course to course or institution to institution, or to gain exemption from part(s) of a course. Consult the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System and the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme for more information.