Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development Bachelor of Science (Honours)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Atlantic Technological University Sligo

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development at Atlantic Technological University provides a comprehensive education in the science behind discovering, developing, manufacturing, and regulating medicinal products. It’s perfect for curious, science-minded students who enjoy hands-on lab work and want a clear path into Ireland’s thriving pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a strong scientific foundation with modules such as Mathematics for Science, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Introduction to Drug Discovery and Development. You will also gain insight into how drugs move from initial ideas to laboratory testing, giving you a practical understanding of pharmaceutical science.

Year 2:
The second year deepens your understanding of core scientific disciplines essential for drug research and production. Modules like Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Analytical Methods, Pharmaceutical Microbiology, and Environmental Health and Safety will prepare you for real-world lab work and regulatory environments.

Year 3:
In the third year, your studies become more specialized with courses such as Pharmaceutical Processing and Medical Device Manufacture, Pharmaceutical Formulation, Biopharmaceuticals, and Active Ingredient Synthesis. You will also strengthen communication and statistical skills that are crucial for scientific research and employment in the pharmaceutical industry.

Year 4:
The final year includes an Industry Placement where you apply your learning in a real pharmaceutical or biopharma company. Advanced modules like Biopharmaceutical Analysis, Pharmaceutical Legislation, Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, and an independent research project tie together your lab expertise, regulatory knowledge, and professional practice.

Focus areas: Drug discovery and design, pharmaceutical chemistry and analysis, biopharmaceutical techniques, regulatory frameworks, quality systems, and industrial processing.

Learning outcomes: Graduates will master scientific theory and practical lab skills, interpret and apply regulatory standards, communicate complex data effectively, design and analyze drug products, and work confidently in multidisciplinary teams.

Professional alignment (accreditation): This is a Level 8 Honours degree recognized on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications and suitable for roles across the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors.

Reputation (employability rankings): Ireland’s biopharma sector is one of the world’s most dynamic and export-driven, with 19 of the top 20 global pharmaceutical companies operating here, creating strong demand for graduates with expertise in this field.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At ATU Sligo, you won’t just study theory — you’ll gain hands-on experience in environments that closely mirror modern pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical workplaces. The programme provides access to specialist science laboratories where you can use industry-relevant analytical and formulation tools, work on group projects, and develop practical skills that employers value. Strong industry connections and placement opportunities allow you to apply your learning outside the classroom and prepare for a professional career.

These practical experiences include:

Dedicated science and engineering laboratories on campus where you’ll carry out experiments in chemistry, biopharmaceutical analysis, formulation, and microbiology, building confidence with real lab equipment and scientific techniques.
Group laboratory projects that simulate real pharmaceutical scenarios, helping you develop teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills while tackling complex scientific tasks.
Opportunities for work experience or industry placements, including your final year project, giving you direct exposure to professional pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical environments.
Access to the university’s library services, including science and research resources, to support your studies, projects, and assignments throughout the degree.
Modern computer labs and digital learning tools that support data analysis, scientific communication, and digital literacy across your coursework.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development at Atlantic Technological University are well-prepared for a range of rewarding careers in Ireland’s thriving pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors. Typical roles include pharmaceutical production scientist, quality control analyst, regulatory affairs specialist, and drug formulation technologist, all of which make direct use of the practical lab skills and industry knowledge gained during the degree. This strong alignment with industry needs means many graduates are able to start working soon after finishing their studies:

University careers services provide tailored support, including CV workshops, interview preparation, internship placements, and connections with employers who actively recruit ATU graduates into pharmaceutical and life sciences roles.
Ireland’s biopharmaceutical industry is one of the largest in the world, employing tens of thousands of people across multinational companies and emerging biotech firms, creating a strong demand for graduates skilled in formulation, quality systems, analysis, and regulatory compliance.
ATU has strong industry partnerships, offering opportunities for work placements and project collaborations that often lead directly to employment with leading pharmaceutical companies.
The degree is recognized on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications, providing long-term professional credibility and mobility within the EU and internationally.
Many students begin applying their skills and securing employment even before graduation, thanks to the hands-on projects and industry placements built into the programme.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes at Level 9 (master’s) or Level 10 (doctoral) in areas such as pharmaceutical sciences, regulatory affairs, or biopharmaceutical technology. With the expansion of advanced programmes like the Master of Pharmacy (MPharm), graduates also have opportunities to pursue professional qualifications that could lead to roles in clinical pharmacy or specialised scientific research.