Bachelor of Science Analytical Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

South East Technological University

Program Overview

The BSc in Analytical Science at South East Technological University (SETU) is a practical, career-focused science degree that prepares students to work in modern laboratories across pharmaceutical, food, environmental, and chemical industries. It is well suited to students who enjoy hands-on experimentation and want to build strong analytical, problem-solving, and data-driven skills grounded in real industrial practice.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 — Scientific Foundations
In the first year, students develop a strong foundation in the core sciences that underpin analytical work. Modules such as Chemistry 1 & 2, Physics 1 & 2, Fundamental Biology, and Quantitative Methods introduce essential scientific principles while building confidence in laboratory techniques and scientific measurement.

Year 2 — Core Analytical Techniques
Year two moves into more specialised chemical and analytical training. Students study Analytical Inorganic Chemistry 1 & 2, Organic and Physical Chemistry, and Instrumentation, gaining experience with laboratory equipment used in industry. Emphasis is also placed on Quantitative Methods and Quality Control, ensuring students understand accuracy, validation, and regulatory standards.

Year 3 — Advanced Analysis and Applied Project Work
In the final year, students focus on advanced analytical methods and real-world applications. Key modules include Spectrochemical Methods, Sampling and Separation Science, and Quality Management, Experimental Design and Data Analysis. The Analytical Project and Workplace Planning module allows students to apply their skills in a substantial project, reflecting professional laboratory environments.

Focus Areas (in a string):

Analytical chemistry, laboratory instrumentation, chemical and biological analysis, quality control, data analysis, and applied laboratory science

Learning Outcomes (in a string):

Ability to perform advanced laboratory analysis, operate industry-standard analytical equipment, apply quality and data management principles, and solve practical scientific problems

Professional Alignment (accreditation):

The programme is designed to meet the skill requirements of analytical laboratories and science-based industries, supporting graduate readiness for regulated and quality-driven environments

Reputation (employability rankings):

SETU places strong emphasis on applied learning and industry relevance, supporting graduate employability and progression into science-based roles or further honours-level study

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At South East Technological University, the BSc in Analytical Science is designed around learning by doing. From the first year onward, students spend a significant amount of time in specialist science laboratories, developing practical skills alongside theoretical understanding. Regular laboratory sessions allow students to work directly with analytical instruments, carry out real experiments, and build confidence in data analysis, quality control, and laboratory procedures used in professional scientific environments. A key feature of the programme is the final-year analytical project, where students independently plan and conduct an investigation, closely reflecting the type of work carried out in industry and research laboratories:

Extensive access to dedicated analytical and chemistry laboratories, used throughout all years of the programme for practical classes
Hands-on training with modern analytical instrumentation integrated into modules such as Instrumentation, Spectrochemical Methods, and Sampling and Separation Science
A structured Analytical Project and Workplace Planning module in the final year, focused on applied investigation, data interpretation, and professional reporting
Use of digital laboratory learning resources, including instructional materials developed by SETU to support technique development and laboratory safety
Regular small-group laboratory work, encouraging teamwork, shared problem-solving, and collaborative learning
Full access to SETU’s library and learning resource centres, providing scientific journals, textbooks, and digital databases to support laboratory preparation and project research
Exposure to wider science research activity and campus-based initiatives, supporting awareness of current developments in analytical and laboratory science

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc in Analytical Science at South East Technological University (SETU) move into careers where practical laboratory expertise is highly valued. Many graduates begin their professional journey as Analytical Scientists, Quality Control Analysts, Environmental Monitoring Officers, or Laboratory Technicians within pharmaceutical, food, environmental, and chemical industries. The programme’s strong focus on applied skills ensures students are workplace-ready and confident when entering the job market:

Career and Employability Support: SETU’s Careers Development Centre provides tailored support including CV and application guidance, interview preparation, employer-led events, and access to career fairs. These services work closely with academic staff to help students translate laboratory experience into real employment opportunities.
Graduate Employment Outcomes: SETU reports strong graduate outcomes, with a high proportion of students progressing into employment or further study shortly after graduation. Analytical and laboratory-based roles in Ireland continue to offer solid entry-level opportunities within regulated and science-driven sectors.
Industry Engagement: The programme benefits from SETU’s close connections with pharmaceutical manufacturing, environmental testing, and food and beverage industries in the South-East region. Industry input supports curriculum relevance and helps students understand real workplace expectations.
Long-Term Degree Value: The skills developed in this degree align with regulated industries that value accuracy, quality systems, and analytical expertise. This gives graduates a qualification that remains relevant over time and transferable across international science sectors.
Graduate Destinations: Alumni commonly progress into roles within pharmaceutical quality laboratories, environmental monitoring services, food testing facilities, and private analytical laboratories, reflecting the programme’s applied and industry-focused design.

Further Academic Progression:

On completion of the BSc in Analytical Science, students have clear academic pathways to continue their education. A key progression route is entry into the honours year of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Pharmaceutics and Drug Formulation, allowing students to specialise further in pharmaceutical science. Graduates may also pursue postgraduate study in areas such as analytical science, quality management, or related scientific disciplines, supporting career advancement into senior technical, research, or regulatory roles.