Biopharmaceutical Technology - Athlone
Why take this course?
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 placement will allow students to gain hands-on experience of the processes involved in biopharmaceutical production.
What will I experience?
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.
Course Award: Master of Science/Post Graduate Diploma
Course NFQ Level: Level 9
Department: Dept of Life & Physical Sciences
Subjects taught
Year 1
Semester 1:
Analytical Tools for Characterising Biopharmaceutical, Cell Culture and Cell Line Development, Protein Biochemistry, Lean Six Sigma for Biopharma
Semester 2:
Immunobiologics, Contemporary Issues in Biopharm, Bioprocess Technology, Quality by Design and Project Management, *Research Project, *Practical Elements
*These 2 modules are run throughout the academic year.
The Research Project module runs throughout Semester 2 and is continued on after Semester 2 in the summer period from May to the end of August.
Entry requirements
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.
Application dates
Online applications for this programme for the academic year 2022-2023 commencing in September 2022 are accepted from March 1 - June 1, 2022
Duration
1 year full-time
Enrolment dates
Contact Athlone IT for next start date.
Post Course Info
What opportunities might it lead to?
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