MSc (Biomedical Science) with industry placement

2 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Galway

Program Overview

The MSc in Biomedical Science with Industry Placement at University of Galway is an exciting two‑year program that combines advanced scientific learning with hands-on industry experience. It’s perfect for students who want to deepen their understanding of biomedical science while gaining practical skills and professional exposure through a research project or a 9–12 month industry placement.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Core Scientific & Applied Foundations
In the first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in biomedical science through modules such as Tissue Engineering, Applied Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Medicine, and Materials Science & Biomaterials. You’ll also explore business-oriented topics like Introduction to Business, while gaining practical laboratory experience and developing your ability to communicate scientific findings effectively.

Year 2 – Industry Placement or Advanced Research
The second year is focused on real-world experience. Students undertaking the industry placement will work in leading medical technology, pharmaceutical, or biopharmaceutical companies, gaining hands-on professional skills, teamwork experience, and exposure to industry practices. Alternatively, students can focus on research projects or modules such as Regulatory Affairs & Operational Excellence, learning about compliance, quality management, and global regulatory standards in healthcare.

Focus Areas: Biomedical Laboratory Techniques, Industry Experience, Regulatory Compliance, Research and Innovation in Medical Technologies

Learning Outcomes: Develop advanced practical and analytical laboratory skills, apply interdisciplinary scientific knowledge, gain industry-aligned professional competencies, understand and interpret regulatory frameworks, communicate effectively in scientific and business contexts

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): While this program is not accredited for clinical laboratory practice, graduates have successfully moved into research assistant roles and positions in MedTech and pharmaceutical industries

Reputation (Employability Rankings): University of Galway is recognized among the top 2% of universities globally and has strong links to a dynamic MedTech and health-science industry, supporting excellent graduate employability

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the MSc in Biomedical Science with Industry Placement don’t just learn from lectures — you’ll be fully immersed in real scientific environments, working with modern laboratories and equipment, and learning directly from researchers who are actively shaping the future of biomedical science. You’ll gain hands-on experience with practical lab techniques through core modules and research projects, and if you take an industry placement, you’ll spend up to a full year working within a biomedical, medical technology, or biopharmaceutical company. This experience allows you to apply your skills in real-world settings, build professional confidence, and graduate ready to contribute immediately in the workforce.

Here’s how experiential learning is delivered in this program:

• State-of-the-art research labs: Conduct practical laboratory sessions as part of your core modules and take on a research project, learning everything from experimental design to data analysis and reporting.
• Industry placement experience: Apply for a 9–12 month placement with medical technology or pharmaceutical companies, gaining structured professional experience and exposure to workplace procedures and technologies.
• Collaborative projects and industry engagement: Work on group projects, case studies, presentations, and workshops that mirror real industry challenges, developing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Guest lectures and site visits: Learn from industry guest speakers and take part in visits to innovation centres and MedTech companies, gaining insight into current trends and professional practices.
• Research-active environment: Benefit from an environment where teaching is closely connected to research, with access to expertise across scientific and clinical disciplines.
• Campus facilities: Learn and conduct research in the University’s Biosciences Research Building and associated facilities, supported by broader campus resources for biomedical science.

Progression & Future Opportunities

After completing the MSc in Biomedical Science with Industry Placement at University of Galway, graduates move into rewarding roles across the biomedical, medical technology, and pharmaceutical sectors, or continue into advanced research. Typical career paths include positions such as Biomedical Scientist in R&D teams, Medical Device Testing Specialist, Regulatory Affairs Associate, or Quality Assurance Officer. This industry-connected programme opens doors in global companies and research environments, helping you build a career with real impact:

• University career services support: You’ll have access to University of Galway’s Careers Service, which offers one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer events, and connections to placement opportunities specific to science and engineering fields — all designed to support your transition from study to professional life.
• Employment outcomes: Graduates have secured roles in well-known organisations such as Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Regeneron, Abbott, Allergan, and Pfizer, reflecting strong demand for biomedical science expertise.
• Industry partnerships: The programme’s industry placement option connects you directly with medical technology and pharmaceutical companies in and around Galway’s MedTech hub, giving you practical work experience and professional networks before you graduate.
• Long-term value: While this MSc is not accredited for clinical laboratory scientist registration in Ireland, it is highly regarded by employers in research and industry and provides a solid foundation for careers in biomedical science, regulatory affairs, and quality management.
• Graduation outcomes: Graduates regularly move into roles across research laboratories, medical device companies, pharmaceutical organisations, and healthcare-related fields, equipped with both advanced technical skills and real-world industry experience.

Further Academic Progression:
If you are interested in research or an academic career, this MSc is an excellent springboard to doctoral study (PhD) in biomedical science or related disciplines. Many students continue with research-intensive programmes or apply directly to structured PhD programmes, building on the skills and knowledge gained during their MSc.