Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science – BSc

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Technological University of the Shannon - Moylish Campus

Program Overview

The BSc in Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of the Shannon is a three-year undergraduate degree that combines forensic investigation with core pharmaceutical and analytical science. It is well suited to students who are interested in laboratory work, evidence analysis, and understanding how medicines and chemicals are developed, tested, and regulated.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students build a strong scientific foundation through subjects such as Biology and Chemistry, developing essential laboratory and analytical skills. Modules like Crime Scene Investigation and Scientific Practice introduce forensic methods early, while Introductory Physics Concepts and Science Mathematics support problem-solving and data handling skills needed across scientific disciplines.

Year 2
The second year moves into more specialised scientific study, with a strong focus on laboratory techniques and applied chemistry. Students study Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Forensics: Analytical Techniques alongside Instrumental Analysis I and II, gaining experience with chromatography and spectroscopy. Modules such as Inorganic and Physical Chemistry I and II, Introduction to Pharmaceutical Science I and II, Introduction to Statistics, and Statistical Process Control strengthen understanding of quality systems and data-driven decision making.

Year 3
In the final year, students explore advanced topics including Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, Molecular and Immunobiology, and Pharmaceutical Technology. Quality Assurance modules prepare students for regulated laboratory and industrial environments. A major component of this year is the extended work placement, lasting up to nine months, where students apply their skills in real forensic, pharmaceutical, or analytical science workplaces.

Focus areas (in a string):
Forensic analysis, pharmaceutical science, analytical chemistry, toxicology, microbiology, quality assurance, laboratory techniques

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Strong laboratory competence, ability to analyse forensic and pharmaceutical samples, understanding of drug analysis and quality systems, data interpretation skills, industry-ready professional experience

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is designed to meet industry expectations for laboratory science, forensic analysis, and pharmaceutical quality environments.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Technological University of the Shannon is recognised for its applied learning approach and strong graduate employability, particularly in science and industry-focused programmes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Experiential learning is at the heart of the BSc in Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of the Shannon. From early in the programme, students develop practical laboratory skills through regular hands-on sessions, working with real scientific equipment and industry-standard techniques rather than simulated exercises. As the course progresses, learning becomes increasingly applied, with strong emphasis on analytical methods, quality systems, and professional practice, all reinforced through an extended work placement in the final year.

This practical focus is supported by dedicated facilities and structured learning opportunities that allow students to build confidence and industry-ready skills in a real scientific environment:

Purpose-built science laboratories where students carry out experimental work for modules such as Biology, Instrumental Analysis, Pharmaceutical Science, Microbiology, and Forensic Evidence
Regular laboratory practicals and group-based experiments that reflect how scientists work collaboratively in forensic and pharmaceutical settings
Hands-on use of analytical instrumentation, including chromatography and spectrophotometry, particularly within Instrumental Analysis and Forensic Analysis modules
Strong emphasis on quality assurance practices and regulated laboratory procedures aligned with pharmaceutical and forensic industries
A substantial work placement in Year 3, lasting up to nine months, allowing students to gain real-world experience in pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, analytical, or forensic science organisations
Access to computer laboratories and digital tools used for statistical analysis, data handling, and quality control during modules such as Introduction to Statistics and Statistical Process Control
Full access to university libraries, study areas, and learning resources that support both independent study and research-based coursework
Career development support to prepare students for placement and graduate employment, including guidance on professional skills and workplace readiness

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc in Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of the Shannon are well prepared for science-based careers that value accuracy, analysis, and regulated laboratory practice. Typical graduate roles include Analytical Scientist, Forensic Analyst, Quality Assurance Officer, and Regulatory or Compliance Technician, across pharmaceutical, forensic, biotechnology, and analytical science sectors. The strong practical focus of the programme means graduates are ready to step directly into professional laboratory environments:

TUS Careers and Employability Services support students throughout the programme with CV and interview preparation, placement guidance, employer engagement events, and career planning tailored to science and laboratory roles
Technological University of the Shannon consistently reports one of the highest graduate employment rates in Ireland, with the majority of honours degree graduates securing employment within nine months of graduation
Graduate salary data published by the university indicates strong early-career earning potential, with many science graduates progressing into roles with competitive starting salaries and clear advancement opportunities
The programme benefits from close engagement with industry through work placements and curriculum design, particularly within the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, analytical, and quality-regulated sectors
The qualification delivers long-term professional value by developing industry-relevant laboratory skills, quality assurance knowledge, and analytical competence aligned with employer expectations
Graduates progress into roles in private laboratories, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, analytical service providers, regulatory environments, and public sector science organisations in Ireland and internationally

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, students have a clear pathway to continue their studies by progressing to the Level 8 honours degree in Forensic and Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of the Shannon. This progression allows graduates to deepen their scientific expertise, enhance career prospects, and create opportunities for further postgraduate study or specialised professional roles in forensic, pharmaceutical, or research-focused fields.