BSc Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry

The Bachelor of Science in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry (MT 774) is a three-year Level 7 undergraduate degree that equips students with scientific understanding and practical laboratory skills to analyse chemical and pharmaceutical materials in industrial and research settings. It suits students who enjoy chemistry and analytical problem-solving and want careers as laboratory analysts, quality-assurance technicians, or technical scientists in pharmaceuticals, food, environmental analysis, and related sectors.

Curriculum structure

First Year:

In the first year, students begin with foundational science modules such as Chemical Principles, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, and Laboratory Skills. These modules introduce principles of general chemistry and chemical interactions, fundamental physical concepts like energy and matter behavior, and essential biological contexts — all supported by hands-on lab practice. Students also develop teamwork and communication skills through modules like Creativity, Innovation and Teamwork alongside scientific subjects.

Second Year:

In the second year, the curriculum deepens into analytical and pharmaceutical chemistry with topics such as Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis, Organic Chemistry, Instrumental Analysis, and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Fundamentals. Students learn how to identify and quantify chemical components in complex samples, understand the structure and reactivity of organic compounds, and apply modern analytical instrumentation. Laboratory work emphasizes practical competence in procedures such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and sample preparation used in industrial and regulatory environments.

Third Year:

In the third (final) year, students focus on advanced analytical techniques, pharmaceutical applications, and professional practice with modules covering Advanced Instrumental Techniques, Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance, and Applied Pharmaceutical Analysis. These enable learners to apply their cumulative knowledge to real-world analysis problems, consider regulatory frameworks in drug and product analysis, and refine their ability to produce accurate, validated laboratory data. Students may also undertake industrial projects or placements to enhance employability and industry experience.

Focus areas (in a string):
Analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, organic chemistry, instrumental analysis, quality assurance, laboratory technique, regulatory compliance.

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Apply chemical and analytical methods to identify and quantify substances; conduct instrumental analyses; interpret laboratory data accurately; understand pharmaceutical chemistry fundamentals; perform quality-assurance procedures.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is an NFQ Level 7 Bachelor of Science degree recognised by Munster Technological University and aligned with Ireland’s higher education quality standards; graduates are prepared for scientific roles in laboratory analysis, pharmaceutical testing, and quality control within industry.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Munster Technological University is recognised for strong industry engagement and practical scientific education, and its chemistry and analytical science graduates enjoy solid employability in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, environmental analysis, and industrial quality systems.