Biotechnology with Biopharmaceutical Science – BSc (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Technological University of the Shannon - Moylish Campus

Program Overview

This four-year honours degree is designed for students who want to understand how biology is applied in real biopharmaceutical and biotechnology settings, from laboratory research to regulated manufacturing environments. You will study biotechnology, biopharmaceutical science, bioanalysis and quality systems, preparing you for employment in Ireland’s life-sciences sector or progression to postgraduate study.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year builds a solid scientific foundation through core subjects such as Biology (Applied), Chemistry, Physics for Biologists and Mathematics for Biologists. You will also develop essential laboratory skills in Laboratory Practice, helping you become comfortable with scientific equipment, measurements and basic experimental techniques.

Year 2:
In second year, the programme moves deeper into biological systems with modules including Cell Biology, Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Classification and Cultivation of Microorganisms. Subjects such as Chemical Analysis for Biologists and Maths and Statistics for Quality Control strengthen your analytical thinking, while Applied Immunology links biological theory to healthcare and industrial applications.

Year 3:
Year three focuses on applied and industry-relevant learning through modules like Bioanalytical Techniques, Applied Microbiology and Biopharmaceutical Science. You will also study Quality Assurance and Regulations, a key area for work in regulated industries, and complete an extended Work Placement, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a professional laboratory or biotech company.

Year 4:
In the final year, you will study advanced topics including Biomolecular Techniques, Bioprocessing and Mammalian Cell Culture, alongside Data Analytics for scientific decision-making. A major Research Project allows you to investigate a real scientific problem, demonstrating your technical ability, independence and readiness for employment or further academic research.

Focus Areas:

Biotechnology, biopharmaceutical science, molecular and cell biology, microbiology, bioanalysis, quality assurance and bioprocessing.

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates develop strong laboratory and analytical skills, an understanding of regulated life-science environments, experience gained through industry placement, and the ability to carry out independent scientific research.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

This Level 8 honours degree is aligned with the skills and knowledge required by the biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries and supports progression into professional roles or postgraduate education.

Reputation (Employability):

Graduates of this programme are well regarded by employers across Ireland’s biotechnology and biopharmaceutical sectors, with skills suited to roles in quality control, process science, microbiology, molecular biology and research and development.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Technological University of the Shannon, practical learning is a core part of the Biotechnology with Biopharmaceutical Science degree. From early in the programme, students develop hands-on laboratory skills alongside their scientific knowledge, working with real equipment and techniques used in modern biotechnology and biopharmaceutical environments. This experience is strengthened by an extended work placement, allowing students to apply what they have learned in a professional setting and graduate with confidence and industry awareness, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world practice:

Specialist bioscience laboratories: Students work in dedicated laboratories for microbiology, biomolecular analysis, mammalian cell culture and bioprocessing, gaining experience with industry-relevant techniques through modules such as Bioanalytical Techniques and Mammalian Cell Culture.
Extended industry work placement: In third year, students complete a six- to eight-month supervised placement with approved biotechnology or biopharmaceutical employers, gaining real workplace experience, professional skills and valuable industry contacts.
Collaborative group projects: Several modules include team-based laboratory and validation projects, reflecting how scientific work is carried out in regulated industry environments and helping students build communication and teamwork skills.
Final-year research project: Each student undertakes an independent research project, applying experimental design, data analysis and problem-solving skills to investigate a scientific question of practical relevance.
Library and academic support facilities: Students have access to TUS library services, including scientific databases, digital resources, quiet and collaborative study spaces, and academic support to assist with research and coursework.
Modern STEM facilities: The programme is supported by TUS investment in science and technology infrastructure, ensuring students train in environments aligned with current industry standards.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Biotechnology with Biopharmaceutical Science degree are well-prepared to enter Ireland’s growing life sciences and biopharmaceutical industries. They typically move into roles such as quality control analyst, bioprocess scientist, research associate, or laboratory technician, applying both their practical laboratory skills and industry knowledge. The programme also opens doors for postgraduate study or specialized training, ensuring long-term career growth:

Career support services: TUS Careers and Employability Office provides tailored guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and industry networking events to help students secure graduate positions.
Employment outcomes: Graduates are highly sought after in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, with many entering full-time roles in research, production, or quality assurance soon after graduation.
University–industry partnerships: The programme includes structured work placements with approved biotech and biopharmaceutical companies, fostering connections that often lead to job opportunities.
Accreditation and professional recognition: The Level 8 honours degree equips graduates with skills that meet industry standards and are valued by employers nationally and internationally.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni work in sectors ranging from biopharmaceutical manufacturing and laboratory research to regulatory affairs and quality management.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in biotechnology, biopharmaceutical science, molecular biology, or related fields. Options include MSc degrees, research-based Masters, or PhD programmes, providing opportunities to specialize in areas such as bioanalysis, cell culture, or regulatory science.