For further information please refer to: http://www.ucd.ie/biotech/
Who is the UCD MSc Biotechnology for?
This multi-disciplinary UCD MSc in Biotechnology programme will provide the theoretical background, practical training and ancillary workplace skills that will equip graduates with the essential tools for a successful career in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industry both in Ireland and abroad.
Course objectives of the UCD MSc Biotechnology
The programme focuses on broadening your knowledge and understanding of the current technologies and processes in the PharmaBiotech industry, including approaches being applied to further advance the discovery and design of new and highly innovative biotech and pharmaceutical products. It also provides industrially relevant expertise in bioprocess technology, regulatory affairs and the design and management of clinical trials.
Eligibility for the UCD MSc Biotechnology
Candidates must have obtained at least an upper Second Class Honours Grade or equivalent in a biology or chemistry primary degree. This includes a BSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Physiology, Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification.
Graduates with equivalent qualifications in related areas of science and technology or with proven relevant industrial experience may be considered for places. The number of places is limited and selection will be made on the candidate's performance in his/her primary degree and experience.
What will I learn from the UCD MSc Biotechnology?
You will be able to demonstrate skills in experimental design, problem solving and interpretation of new data, demonstrate the analytical and technical skills required for experimental research and / or the exploitation of scientific discovery in industry, depending on your chosen project. You will learn to understand regulatory compliance and the procedures involved in design and management of clinical trails.
In addition you will be able to identify and appropriately manage the professional, ethical and wider social aspects and impacts of product development within the biotech and pharmaceutical industry. You will improve your communication skills, your ability for independent thinking and for developing creative solutions.
One of the main factors that will determine your field of expertise is your selection of research project which aims to develop project management, research and analytical skills.
How will I benefit from the UCD MSc Biotechnology?
This advanced graduate degree in Biotechnology has been developed in consultation with employers and therefore will be recognised and valued by them. A key feature is the opportunity to carry out a project in industry which will allow graduates to develop connections with prospective employers, thereby enhancing chances of employment on graduation. You will also have the opportunity to become part of a network of alumni in the field of Biotechnology.
What is the UCD MSc Biotechnology programme about?
The UCD MSc Biotechnology programme provides a comprehensive course of education in "Biotechnology", a branch of science that demands a broad knowledge of a number of areas of scientific study including Biochemistry, Microbiology and Pharmacology. Biotechnology is one of the major technologies of the twenty-first century that is predicted to provide solutions to major national problems by developing new technologies with great potential for economic impact.
UCD_MSc_Biotechnology (PDF Document)
The UCD MSc Biotechnology programme has a global, multidisciplinary perspective with contributions from national and international academics and experts.
Students share their firsthand practical experience with other MSc students and professionals from a diverse range of countries and backgrounds and this creates a dynamic learning environment. You will have the opportunity to work with industrial practitioners and to carry out a project in industry.
Programme Structure
The UCD MSc Biotechnology programme is a full-time, one-year programme, divided into three semesters (from early September until the end of summer). The programme consists of lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops and case studies. To complete the MSc in Biotechnology you must complete 12 core modules and a substantial project in biotechnology as part of the programme.
Semester 1, Core Modules
Biomedical Diagnostics (5 ECTS)
Medical Device Technology (5 ECTS)
Microbial and animal cell products (5 ECTS)
Pharmacology and Drug Development I (5 ECTS)
Recombinant DNA Technology (5 ECTS)
Professional Career Development Part I (2.5 ECTS)
Semester 2, Core Modules
Bioprocessing Laboratory (5 ECTS)
Drug Development and Clinical trials (5 ECTS)
Environmental Biotechnology (2.5 ECTS)
Facility Design (5 ECTS)
Food Biotechnology (2.5 ECTS)
Professional Career Development Part II (2.5 ECTS)
Regulatory Affairs Science for Biotechnology Products (5 ECTS)
Semester 3, Core Modules
Biotechnology Project
Students who do not complete a project are eligible to graduate with a Graduate Diploma.
Where can I go after the UCD MSc Biotechnology?
This programme will enable you to choose from a wide range of careers and areas of postgraduate study. This multi-disciplinary course provides a solid grounding for careers in industry, health and research. Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Microbiology, Process control, Technical Transfer, Research and Development, and Regulatory Affairs, Scientific Editor or Write, Lab Technician or Analyst. Armed with an MSc in biotechnology, you could also become a researcher in a lab.
Prospective Employers
IRELAND: Abbott Ireland; Allergan; Alltech; Alpha Technologies; Medtronic; Avonmore Foods; Baxter Healthcare; Beckman Coulter; Biotrin International Ltd.; BioResearch Ireland; Boston Scientific; Elan Corporation; Enfer Group; Fort Dodge Laboratories; Gerard Laboratories; Howmedica International; Hygeia; Icon Clinical Research; Irish Distillers Ltd.; Janssen Pharmaceutical Ltd.; Kerry Group Plc.; Medentech Ltd.; Medtronic; Merck Sharp & Dohme; Nycomed Ireland; Olympus Diagnostica; Quintiles; Quest International; Sandoz Ringaskiddy Ltd.; Schering AG; Schering-Plough; Serology Ltd.; Stiefel Laboratories; Teagasc; Trinity Biotech.; Waterfood Foods; Wyeth Ireland; Xenith Biomed.
EUROPE: Alcan (UK); Celltech (UK); Eurand International S.p.A. (Italy); Eli Lilly and Co. (UK); Glaxo-Wellcome (UK); Johnson & Johnson Ltd. (UK); Mars Confectionary (UK); Murex Diagnostics (UK); Parexel International (UK); Sandoz AG (Switzerland); SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals (UK).
ELSEWHERE: Amgen (USA); Clorox Technical Centre (USA); Kerry Group Plc. (USA); ImmunoGen Inc. (USA); Repligen Corporation (USA); Shaklee Corporation (USA); Syntex (USA).
Admissions to the UCD MSc Biotechnology
The UCD MSc Biotechnology programme is designed to accommodate applicants who have successfully completed a primary degree in a biological or chemical science. This includes a BSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Physiology, Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification.
If English is not your native language, unless you have done your primary degree through English in an English speaking country, an English language qualification is required for all programmes. English Language qualifications include a minimum score of 550 (213 computer based) for TOEFL i.e. Test of English as a Foreign Language, or 6.0 for IELTS i.e. International English Language Testing System. Other evidence of proficiency in English may be accepted such as the Cambridge Certificate.
Fees and Financing
Information on Fees is available at the UCD Fees and Grants Office website. EU students may be eligible to apply for higher education grants through their Local Authority.
For information on the Cost of Living in Dublin, Ireland, please visit the following websites:
http://www.ucd.ie/international/
Also ICOS http://www.icosirl.ie/
