Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science – BSc (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Technological University of the Shannon - Moylish Campus

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) in Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of the Shannon combines cutting‑edge science with real-world investigative and pharmaceutical applications, giving you both strong laboratory skills and an exciting path into growing scientific sectors. You’ll explore everything from crime scene investigation to drug analysis and pharmaceutical technology, perfect for curious, hands-on thinkers who want a career where science makes a real difference.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation across the core natural sciences with Biology and Chemistry, learning essential lab techniques and scientific principles. You’ll also explore Crime Scene Investigation and Scientific Practice, gaining insight into forensic processes, and strengthen your problem-solving abilities through Introductory Physics Concepts and Science Mathematics, all designed to prepare you for more specialised work ahead.

Year 2

Year 2 deepens your scientific toolkit: you’ll study Pharmaceutical Microbiology, exploring microbes in industry environments, alongside Forensics: Analytical Techniques, which introduces evidence collection and lab interpretation. Modules like Instrumental Analysis and Introduction to Pharmaceutical Science also bridge theory and hands-on lab work, while Introduction to Statistics and Statistical Process Control equip you with data and quality-control skills crucial for modern science roles.

Year 3

In Year 3 you begin specialised topics with Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis and Molecular & Immunobiology, giving you deeper insights into biomolecular techniques and toxicological profiling. You’ll also cover Pharmaceutical Technology and Quality Assurance, while the second semester culminates in a significant work placement of up to nine months, putting your academic learning into practice in real organisations, from pharmaceutical companies to forensic labs.

Year 4

Your final year focuses on advanced professional skills and cutting-edge science with modules such as Advanced Forensic Techniques, Biomolecular Forensics, Advanced Pharmaceutical Technologies, and Drugs in Sport. You’ll also complete a substantial research project and interpret complex evidence through Interpretation and Evaluation of Forensic Evidence, positioning you for industry roles or postgraduate study.

Focus Areas

Forensic science, pharmaceutical science, analytical techniques, drug analysis, biomolecular methods, evidence interpretation, quality assurance, toxicology, biopharmaceuticals, statistical and instrumental analysis.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with strong laboratory proficiency, analytical reasoning, evidence interpretation, regulatory understanding, quality-control skills, and professional experience through placement — ready to solve complex problems in scientific contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This programme is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Science (UK), affirming its quality and relevance to professional forensic standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

TUS graduates enjoy an excellent employment record in Ireland and internationally, taking roles in forensic labs, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries, analyst labs, healthcare, and more — reflecting strong industry demand for the skills this degree builds.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

For students on the BSc (Hons) in Forensic & Pharmaceutical Science at Technological University of the Shannon, practical experience is central to learning from the very first year. You’ll spend much of your time in well-equipped science laboratories on the Moylish Campus, gaining hands-on experience with instruments like spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, and other analytical equipment as part of modules such as Instrumental Analysis and Forensic Toxicology. The programme also includes a significant work placement in industry, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, or forensic science settings, with staff guidance to support CV development and interview preparation. Students benefit from modern lecture theatres, dedicated lab spaces, and computer suites designed to support collaborative and applied learning.

Here’s how experiential learning is integrated into the programme:

Extensive hands-on laboratory work across biology, chemistry, forensic investigation, and pharmaceutical science, giving you practical experience with scientific techniques and instrumentation.
A long, structured work placement in Year 3, working in industry laboratories or science companies in Ireland or abroad to apply your skills in professional settings.
Collaborative group project work in modules such as Advanced Pharmaceutical Technologies, where you test and analyse pharmaceutical formulations as a team.
Access to modern facilities, including science labs and computer suites at Moylish Campus, supporting practical classes and data analysis.
Preparation for industry readiness through CV guidance and interview preparation provided ahead of placement modules.

Students also benefit from dedicated laboratory spaces integrated into the Moylish Campus infrastructure, ensuring you have the right environment and tools to practise and refine your scientific skills throughout the degree.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this programme are well placed to step confidently into science and health-related careers, thanks to the hands-on skills and industry experience built over four years. Typical job roles include forensic laboratory analyst, pharmaceutical scientist, quality control specialist, and analytical chemist in sectors ranging from crime labs to life sciences companies. This strong professional grounding connects directly to long-term career growth and mobility:

Careers & employability support: TUS’s dedicated careers team helps with work placement preparation, CV reviews, mock interviews, employability workshops, and employer networking events throughout your studies, supporting your smooth transition into the workforce.
High graduate employment rates: TUS honours degree graduates have one of the highest employment rates in Ireland, with around 80% of students in work within nine months of finishing their course, and many securing permanent contracts soon after graduation.
Salary prospects: Typical starting salaries range between €35,000 and €39,000 per year, with opportunities for higher earnings as you gain experience and take on specialist or managerial roles.
Industry connections: The programme is developed in collaboration with employers and industry partners, and TUS coordinates work placements that strengthen links between student learning and real jobs in pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, forensic, and analytical laboratories.
Accreditation and professional edge: Accreditation by the Chartered Society of Forensic Science gives lasting professional recognition, enhancing your competitiveness in science-focused job markets.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this honours degree, you have a solid foundation to continue into postgraduate study if you wish. Many graduates go on to pursue master’s programmes in areas such as pharmaceutical science, forensic science, regulatory affairs, or analytical chemistry either at TUS or other universities. Postgraduate qualifications can open doors to specialist research roles, leadership positions in industry, or academic careers.