Biopharmaceutical Technology - Athlone

TUS has successfully produced highly employable biotechnology graduates at NFQ level 7 and 8 since the programmes were initially offered in 1996. The Master of Science/ Postgraduate Diploma (MSc/PgD) in Biopharmaceutical Technology builds on the expertise and industry links TUS has developed over this time. The programme was conceived in response to significant job opportunities within Ireland’s large and expanding biopharmaceutical sector. In addition to lectures and laboratory sessions at TUS, and site visits to local biopharmaceutical plants, students on the MSc/PgD will receive practical training at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT) in Dublin.



NIBRT is a replica of a functional bioprocessing plant, equipped with all of the manufacturing equipment you would expect to find in a modern bioprocessing facility (for example, upstream, downstream, fill finish and bioanalytical facilities). The NIBRT training/training experience will allow students to gain hands-on experience of the processes involved in biopharmaceutical production.



The MSc in Biopharmaceutical Technology runs at the Athlone campus of TUS from September to August. The programme consists of theory and practical classes which are held at TUS, a training period in the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT), site visits to biopharmaceutical plants and guest lectures from individuals working at the cutting edge of the biopharmaceutical industry.

Year 1 – Semester 1

Protein Biochemistry Credits: 5

Analytical Tools for Characterising Biopharmaceuticals Credits: 5

Research Methods and Professional Development Skills Credits: 5

Cell Culture & Cell Line Development Credits: 5

Lean Six Sigma Credits: 5

Methods in Biopharmaceutical Production (Year-long) Credits: 15



Year 1 – Semester 2

Methods in Biopharmaceutical Production (Year-long) Credits: 15

Immunobiologics Credits: 5

Contemporary Issues in Biopharma Credits: 5

Bioprocess Technology Credits: 5

Quality by Design and Project Management Credits: 5



Year 1 – Semester 3

Research Project Credits: 30

Minimum Entry Requirements:

Eligible candidates should have a first or a second class honours grade or an international equivalent in a Biology or Chemistry-related primary degree (for example Biotechnology, Toxicology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Genetics, Neuroscience, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Physiology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification).



Graduates who hold equivalent qualifications in related science and technology disciplines or who have relevant industrial experience will be considered for places on a case-by-case basis.



Non-EU nationals must provide evidence of ability to follow classes in English (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). Applicants may be required to attend TUS for an interview. An online Zoom/Skype/MS Teams interview may be arranged for international students.

1 year full-time.

Career Opportunities

Nine of the top ten global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies have significant operations in Ireland and seven of the ten worldwide ‘blockbuster’ drug products are manufactured in Ireland. The Irish Government’s Expert Group on Future Skills Needs has identified the Biopharma sector as one which will continue to require highly qualified and skilled scientists over the coming years. The modules offered on the Master of Science/Postgraduate Diploma in Biopharmaceutical Technology were designed to meet these identified current and future skills shortages in the Irish and international Biopharmaceutical sector. The programme also provides a route towards a career in Research and Development within academia and industry. Graduates from this programme can expect to develop careers in a variety of roles in the Biopharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotechnology and Medical Diagnostics sectors.



Further Study

Students can progress to an appropriate Level 10 on completion.