Bachelor of Science Pharmaceutical Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

South East Technological University Waterford

Program Overview

The BSc in Pharmaceutical Science at South East Technological University (SETU) gives you a strong foundation in the science of drug discovery, development, and manufacturing, with plenty of hands-on laboratory experience. It’s ideal for curious, science-minded students who want to pursue careers in the pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical sectors or continue on to further study.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, you will develop essential scientific knowledge across biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics while gaining practical laboratory skills. Modules such as Good Laboratory Practice & Core Skills, Introduction to Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Science, Introductory Chemistry, and Cell Biology & Biochemistry provide hands-on experience and help you become confident working with scientific instruments and techniques.

Year 2
The second year takes you deeper into drug-related science and analytical methods. You will study Organic Chemistry and Biomolecules, Spectroscopic Techniques, Pharmaceutical Science, and Biopharmaceutical Science, learning to analyse and interpret complex laboratory data and understand the real-world applications of pharmaceuticals.

Year 3
In the final year, you will focus on advanced topics and professional practice. Modules include Chromatographic Method Development and Validation, Industrial Processing and Operations, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, and Total Quality Management. You will also complete an independent research project and learn about Good Manufacturing Practice and Data Integrity, preparing you for work in quality assurance, research and development, or production environments.

Focus areas

Pharmaceutical analysis, laboratory techniques, drug development science, biopharmaceutical processes, quality control and assurance, data interpretation, research project skills.

Learning outcomes

Develop proficiency in laboratory instrumentation and analytical methods, apply scientific principles to pharmaceutical processes, interpret and communicate data effectively, conduct independent research, and demonstrate professional practice aligned with industry standards.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This Level 7 degree prepares graduates for employment in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries and provides a pathway to advanced level study, including Level 8 honours degrees.

Reputation (employability rankings)

SETU graduates are in strong demand, with Ireland hosting over 150 pharmaceutical companies, including nine of the world’s top ten, creating excellent employment prospects in laboratory analysis, quality control, research and development, and related sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At SETU, the BSc in Pharmaceutical Science is designed to give you much more than classroom knowledge — you will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques from early in your studies. Practical laboratory work is a key part of the program, allowing you to develop confidence in using modern instrumentation and analytical equipment similar to what you would find in real pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical workplaces. Throughout the degree, you will also have access to digital resources that support your learning, including instructional videos and laboratory manuals. In your final year, you’ll complete an independent research project, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge and develop problem-solving and research skills in an area that interests you.

Experiential learning opportunities include:

Laboratory work with modern instruments for separation science, spectroscopic and chromatographic methods, and biotechnology techniques, providing real-world analytical science experience.
A supervised final-year research project where you design, conduct, and present independent scientific research.
Access to digital laboratory resources, including technique videos and manuals, to support hands-on learning and safe lab practices.
Collaboration with research-active staff and facilities in the Department of Science, participating in real research initiatives in pharmaceutical science, biotechnology, drug delivery, and environmental analysis.
Small-group tutorials and practicals where you analyze data and work collaboratively, preparing you for teamwork in professional scientific settings.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc in Pharmaceutical Science at South East Technological University (SETU) are well-prepared to step directly into the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries. Typical career paths include laboratory analyst, quality assurance specialist, research and development scientist, and regulatory compliance advisor. The degree equips you with practical, in-demand skills and real-world experience, helping you stand out to employers:

Outcomes and opportunities you can expect:

Career support from SETU: The Careers Development Centre provides guidance through CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, job boards, and one-to-one career advice, helping you connect with opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.
Employment prospects and salary: SETU graduates enjoy strong employability, with most finding work within six months of graduation. Starting salaries in pharmaceutical roles are competitive, reflecting the high demand for skilled graduates in Ireland’s thriving pharma industry.
Industry partnerships: The programme includes an integrated industry placement in the third year and benefits from links with local and international research partners, multinational pharmaceutical companies, and applied research centres, giving you valuable real-world experience.
Accreditation and long-term value: The course is recognised for excellence in pharmaceutical education and aligns closely with industry standards, ensuring your qualification is respected by employers.
Graduate destinations: Alumni have gone on to roles in laboratory analysis, quality control, research and development, compliance, technical sales, management, and some have pursued entrepreneurial ventures or teaching positions, demonstrating the flexibility of this qualification.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, you can continue your studies through postgraduate options such as taught master’s degrees, MSc programmes, or PhD research, either at SETU or other universities in Ireland and internationally. Further study allows you to specialise in areas of pharmaceutical science, expand research experience, and open doors to advanced industry or regulatory roles.