IRSE Module A
Recently I passed the IRSE Module A, and I thought I’d be sharing my thoughts and opinion about it, while it’s still relatively fresh in my mind. This exam, and its other module, has always had a ‘bad’ reputation, being touted and taunted as a difficult exam, but after sitting for it, I think that perception is not precise. I believe the exam is comprehensive but fair, and you too, can pass it.
What is it?
Module A is a certification by IRSE (Institute Railway Signaling Engineer) which was introduced two years ago, and acts as ‘qualifier’ for the module B, C, and D which is the full certification. Passing Module A results in an IRSE Certificate in Fundamentals of Railway Control Engineering (Module A), while module B, C, and D results in Advanced Diploma in Railway Control Engineering (the IRSE Professional Exam).
It’s well known and does help in career. It IS UK-centric, in the sense the questions are based on signaling in the UK, but like I said before I think the module is fair and doable.
How to study for it?
There are three main sources that I used.
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Reading list – This list is provided by IRSE themselves. Particularly important is the “Back to Basics” series, which is very important for me since I didn’t have experience of signaling in the UK. My recommendation is to do a read through and make some notes, then revisit later after you do some sample questions.
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IRSE Young Members Vimeo – There are dozens of sessions from previous year(s) discussing either a certain aspect of signaling and telecom, or a specific focus on part of the exams. Very useful even if you attend the live session, since some calculations benefit from a pause here and there to understand. Plus if you’re like me, you can watch the videos on 2x speed.
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Study group session – other than the one organized by IRSE, there are also other group sessions ran by individuals. I was fortunate enough to join some of them and had greatly benefited.
What’s needed?
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Time – the reading list might take you around 20-60 hours, depending on how familiar you are with the subjects. For example, I’m from metro so those parts are a breeze, but telecommunications need extra reading. The Vimeos are around 1 hour each and might take around 30 hours to watch. That’s around three seasons of Peaky Blinders that you have to trade with. 😄
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Cost – Fee was £110.
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Tools – no special tools. Exam was online with invigilation though, so a computer with video capability was needed.
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Motivation – a friend would be helpful. I did this with my friend, Raimi and we both thankfully passed. (Here’s his take on the exam)
What now?
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Read more about the exam, here.
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Glimpse through the materials I mentioned above.
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Register for the exam. Good luck!
I’ll be glad to answer any questions you have. Also, if you’re interested in a webinar, would appreciate if you could fill up this form.