Biotherapeutics

The MSc in Biotherapeutics educates students on the practical uses of molecular advances in the discovery of protein and other biomolecular drug candidates and their development into biotherapeutics. It will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the development of biotherapeutics, beginning with pre-clinical modelling and target identification together with antibody engineering, biochemical and biophysical characterisation, and development issues for bioprocessing.



Systems biology of biotechnological processes and approaches to the analysis of proteomics-based discovery data will be covered in detail together with mathematical modelling, bioinformatics analysis and data integration strategies. Regulatory issues and innovation and commercialisation strategies will also be covered. A practical 6-month drug discovery laboratory project will form a significant component of the experience of how drug candidates are identified and brought through the development pipeline.



- Expert faculty and senior industry practitioners working at the forefront of their disciplines

- Hands-on practical experience in bioprocessing

- Large research component in hi-tech research lab

- Company visits and access to The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) on campus



What Will I Learn?

1 - Students will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of biotherapeutics

2 - Students will be able to comprehend the challenges of scaling bioprocesses and apply their knowledge to overcome these

3 - Students will be able to analyse, evaluate and communicate biotherapeutics research

4 - Students will be able to work safely and effectively in a biotherapeutics laboratory, both independently and as part of a team

5 - Students will be able to develop effective time management, problem-solving and reporting skills as required in a professional workplace

6 - Students will be able to develop a professional approach to engaging with industry and an applied methodology in preparing for employment opportunities

Stage 1 Core Modules

PHAR40230 Project in Biotherapeutics Dev 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum) 45

BIOC40180 Professional Career Development Autumn 5

PHAR40200 Biotherapeutic Pipeline I Autumn 5

PHAR40210 Biotherapeutic Pipeline II Spring 5

PHAR40220 Systems Biology in Drug Dev Spring 5



Stage 1 Options - B)5 of:

Please choose 5 Option Modules from the 9 Option Modules available to you.

BIOC40260 Biomedical Diagnostics Autumn 5

BMOL40120 The Business of Biotechnology and Science Autumn 5

MICR40010 Recombinant DNA Technology Autumn 5

MICR40020 Microbial and Animal Cell Products Autumn 5

BMOL40190 Multicellular Systems Spring 5

BMOL40360 Bioprocessing Spring 5

CELB40160 HCS Microscopy Spring 5

MICR40100 Emerging Issues in Biotechnology Spring 5

PHAR40240 Regulatory Affairs for Life Sciences Spring 5

The programme is intended for applicants who have an Upper Second Class Honours Degree, or international equivalent, in a biological or chemical science. This includes a BSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Physiology, Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification.



Graduates with equivalent qualifications in related areas of science and technology or with proven relevant industrial experience may be considered for places. The number of places is limited and selection will be made on the candidate's performance in his/her primary degree and experience. A significant amount of lab experience will be required, e.g. a laboratory based project or equivalent component(s), at a senior stage of the student's degree.



2 academic references will be required, at least one to be from a science faculty member.



Early Applications

In previous years, all spaces on this suite of programmes have been offered by May of the previous academic year. Please submit your application as soon as possible.



English Language Requirements

If English is not your native language, unless you have done your primary degree through English in an English speaking country, an English language qualification is required for all programmes. English Language qualifications include a minimum score of 550 (213 computer based) for Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or 6.5 (with a score of 6 obtained in each category) for International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Other evidence of proficiency in English may be accepted such as the Cambridge Certificate. Tests used as evidence of language proficiency must have been completed within the last 12 months.



Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s Pre-Sessional or International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes. Please see the following link for further information http://www.ucd.ie/alc/programmes/pathways/



These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax

1 year full-time. Delivery: On Campus.

Next Intake: September 2025.

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

This graduate degree in Biotherapeutics has been developed in consultation with the Biopharmaceutical industry and is recognised and valued by them. A key feature is the undertaking of a significant drug discovery and development laboratory project which is reviewed by industry partners. This engagement is designed to help graduates identify opportunities in the industry at the earliest stage. Prospective employers include Novartis, GSK, Eli Lilly and Co., Johnson & Johnson Ltd., Pfizer, Janssen Biologics, AstraZeneca, MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Abbott and Sanofi.