Bachelor of Science Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

South East Technological University Waterford

Program Overview

The BSc in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science at SETU Waterford gives you a strong foundation in the life sciences while developing specialised laboratory and analytical skills. This hands-on degree blends core biological principles with industry-relevant practices, making it ideal for students passionate about biotechnology, molecular research, and the biopharmaceutical sector.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you will build essential scientific knowledge and laboratory skills through modules such as Good Laboratory Practice & Core Skills, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Introductory Chemistry, and Mathematics for Scientists. These courses help you gain confidence in biology’s fundamentals while introducing key concepts in biotechnology and pharmaceutical science, preparing you for more advanced study.

Year 2
The second year deepens your expertise with subjects like Microbiology 1, Biochemistry, Chromatographic and Electrophoretic Techniques, and Microbial Biotechnology and Genetics. You will also strengthen your analytical and statistical skills through modules such as Statistics for Scientists and Environmental Monitoring, equipping you to analyze complex biological systems effectively.

Year 3
In the final year, you will study advanced modules including Molecular Biology and Genetics, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Applied Immunology, and Total Quality Management. The capstone Research Project and Methodologies allows you to design and carry out your own independent investigation, preparing you for professional roles or further postgraduate study.

Focus Areas

Molecular biology techniques, microbiology, biopharmaceutical production, analytical testing, quality management, and research methodologies.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply laboratory best practices, interpret scientific data, understand cellular and molecular systems, and contribute confidently to biopharmaceutical, environmental, and industrial sectors.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This Level 7 undergraduate degree meets industry standards for laboratory and analytical roles in biopharmaceutical and related sectors in Ireland and internationally.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

SETU’s science courses are highly valued for their practical lab focus and industry relevance, with graduates well-prepared for roles such as Biopharmaceutical Laboratory Analyst, Quality Control Analyst, and Environmental Laboratory Analyst.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At SETU Waterford, you won’t just study theory — you’ll gain hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world scientific work. From your very first semester, you will work in well-equipped laboratories, learning essential molecular biology and microbiology techniques. The program also incorporates small-group tutorials and IT-supported exercises that help you apply what you learn, solve problems collaboratively, and develop confidence in practical scientific work. Throughout your studies, you’ll refine your lab skills, data analysis abilities, and critical thinking, all under the guidance of experienced lecturers.

Some of the practical experiences and resources you’ll have access to include:

Practical lab work in dedicated science laboratories, performing traditional and advanced molecular biology and microbiology techniques.
Use of specialized laboratory equipment and instrumentation for analytical testing, chromatography, and electrophoresis.
Small-group tutorials and IT-supported exercises that reinforce practical application of your coursework.
Opportunities to study abroad at partner institutions to broaden your practical experience in different scientific environments.
For students who progress to the honours version of the program, extended work placements with recognised industry partners provide valuable professional experience outside campus.

Facilities supporting your practical learning include modern laboratories at SETU’s Waterford campuses, designed specifically for hands-on biological and chemical science training.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science at SETU Waterford are well prepared for science-based roles where practical laboratory skills are essential. Many move directly into positions such as Biopharmaceutical Laboratory Analyst, Molecular Biology Laboratory Analyst, Quality Control Analyst, or Environmental Laboratory Analyst, while others use the degree as a stepping stone to further study. The programme’s strong industry focus ensures you leave with skills that are directly relevant to today’s life-science employers:

Career development support: SETU’s Careers Development Centre supports students throughout their studies with career planning, CV and interview preparation, and guidance on graduate job opportunities, helping you make confident career decisions.
Employer engagement: SETU regularly hosts science and industry-focused career events that allow students to interact with employers and gain insight into real job opportunities in laboratory and biopharmaceutical sectors.
Industry-relevant skills: The programme emphasises laboratory techniques, quality systems, data analysis, and regulatory awareness, skills that are consistently sought after by employers in biopharmaceutical, environmental, food, and biomedical industries.
Industry pathways through honours progression: While this Level 7 degree builds strong practical foundations, students who progress to the Level 8 honours programme benefit from extended work placement opportunities that strengthen links with industry.
Long-term qualification value: The degree’s alignment with industry standards gives graduates lasting career value, particularly in laboratory science, quality assurance, and analytical roles.
Graduate outcomes: Many graduates secure employment in laboratory and quality-focused roles shortly after graduation, reflecting the applied and practical nature of the programme.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, students may progress to the BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science at SETU, where they gain advanced technical knowledge and access to professional work placement opportunities. An honours degree also opens pathways to postgraduate study, including taught master’s or research-based programmes at SETU or other universities, supporting long-term career growth in research, advanced industry roles, or specialist scientific fields.