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Biotechnology – BSc (Hons)

  • CAO Points: 339

  • Campus: Athlone

  • years: 4


Course Overview

Biotechnology is the manipulation of living organisms, cells, genes or molecules to develop services and products that benefit mankind and have commercial value. Biotechnology is a dynamic and evolving area, which is making significant contributions to the ‘smart economy’ in areas such as healthcare, agri- business, the food industry and the environment. Biotechnologists have already and continue to discover new ways to diagnose, treat and prevent disease, repair and replace damaged organs, create biofuels and bioplastics, grow crops with better yields, drought and pest resistance, and remove toxic environmental contaminants. These advancements are based on relatively recent discoveries in the areas of genetic engineering, genome sequencing and molecular biology are projected to continue to grow in utility and value. It is estimated that approximately half of all medicines currently produced worldwide originate in biotechnology based systems, making them cheaper and more widely available. Ireland is a leading location for biopharmaceutical production with a mix of start-ups, high growth SMEs and large multinationals located here. The Irish Government has identified the biopharmaceutical/diagnostics sector as one of the country’s best options for our economic future being the largest goods exporting sector in the economy. Currently, 9 out of the 10 largest pharmaceutical companies in the world are located in Ireland while 7 out of the 10 best-selling medicines in the world are produced here. The BSc (Honours) degree in Biotechnology with Placement in TUS Midlands,  is designed to train graduates to pursue careers in this dynamic and thriving sector of the economy, and/or to pursue further education to post-graduate level in highly specialised areas within biotechnology. In the 22-year history of the BSc Biotechnology programme in TUS , it has consistently attracted viable numbers of students wishing to pursue a further education in Biotechnology, a discipline that is acknowledged to have a critical role, not only in the Irish economy, but also in the present and future quality of life of humankind and the planet.

Contact Details

Dr. Donal Eardly

Email: Donal.Eardly@tus.ie

Telephone: (090) 6468001

What are the entry requirements?

Leaving Certificate

A minimum of grade H5 in two higher level subjects plus a minimum of grade O6 in four ordinary level subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination. Two of these subjects must include Mathematics and a language (English or Irish).

QQI

Any major QQI award with three distinctions and a pass in C20139 or 5N1833 or C20174 or C2017 or Leaving Certificate Maths at O6/H7.

Mature Applicants

Candidates applying as mature applicants may be required to attend an interview and may be requested to take an aptitude test to prove their suitability for a place on this programme.

International Applicants

International applicants should apply directly to the International Office at TUS, allowing plenty of time for completing the visa process. Applications for September start should be made by 1st June at the latest to ensure visas are processed in time. You should familiarise yourself with visa processing times for your country of origin to ensure you make a timely application. Find out more here.

Course Modules

  • Biology (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to introduce the core concepts that are fundamental to all biological systems. This includes cell structure and composition, genetics, metabolism, anatomy and physiology of bacteria, fungi, plants and animals, ecosystems and environmental biology.

  • Chemistry (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    In this module, the fundamentals of General and Inorganic Chemistry are introduced. The module also is focused on the core areas of Physical Chemistry, and places a strong emphasis on numerical problem-solving. The module is completed by exploring Organic Chemistry. The module has a strong focus on the development of core Chemistry laboratory skills and techniques, with an emphasis on highlighting Chemistry as a core experimental discipline within the STEM domain.

  • Physics for Chemical and Life Sciences (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    This introductory Physics course is designed to provide students with intuitive mental models of key fundamental principles of Physics, illustrated and reinforced with relevant examples and applications. This course also provides learners with a strong practical foundation in the application of the Scientific Method, as well as a clear understanding of the concept of uncertainty in measurement. Facilitating learners to gain first-hand experience and proficiency of the practical techniques of measurement, data analysis and visualisation, and error analysis is another key part of this module.

  • Mathematics for Scientists (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to offer an introduction to scientific mathematics providing the learner with the necessary tools to deal with the quantitative aspects of the discipline and to equip the learner with the technical skills necessary to become proficient in applying the mathematical concepts and tools for calculus to a wide range of context based examples in science.

  • Transferable skills

    Credits: 5

    This module aims to provide students with a range of transferable skills preparing them to learn and work in a scientific field. Students will work on individual and group based projects developing their communication and project management skills as well as their ability to work as part of a team.

  • Laboratory Practice: Safety Science & Laboratory Competencies:

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to provide the student with a working knowledge of laboratory practices with a focus on safety.

  • Biology (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to introduce the core concepts that are fundamental to all biological systems. This includes cell structure and composition, genetics, metabolism, anatomy and physiology of bacteria, fungi, plants and animals, ecosystems and environmental biology.

  • Chemistry (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    In this module, the fundamentals of General and Inorganic Chemistry are introduced. The module also is focused on the core areas of Physical Chemistry, and places a strong emphasis on numerical problem-solving. The module is completed by exploring Organic Chemistry. The module has a strong focus on the development of core Chemistry laboratory skills and techniques, with an emphasis on highlighting Chemistry as a core experimental discipline within the STEM domain.

  • Physics for Chemical and Life Sciences (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    This introductory Physics course is designed to provide Chemical and Life Sciences students with intuitive mental models of key fundamental principles of Physics, illustrated and reinforced with relevant examples and applications. This course also provides learners with a strong practical foundation in the application of the Scientific Method, as well as a clear understanding of the concept of uncertainty in measurement. Facilitating learners to gain first-hand experience and proficiency of the practical techniques of measurement, data analysis and visualisation, and error analysis is another key part of this module.

  • Mathematics for Scientists

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to offer an introduction to scientific mathematics providing the learner with the necessary tools to deal with the quantitative aspects of the discipline and to equip the learner with the technical skills necessary to become proficient in applying the mathematical concepts and tools for calculus to a wide range of context based examples in science.

  • Current Scientific Issues through Team Based Learning

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce students to a range of scientific topics relevant to their study programme as well as increase student engagement and problem-solving skills. The module will be delivered through a Team-Based Learning (TBL) strategy that consists of familiarisation with programme-relevant topics, in-class quizzes to assess interpretation followed by team-based discussion to enhance overall understanding

  • Information Technology for Scientists

    Credits: 5

    This module provides students with a firm grounding in the basic applications of Information Technology for scientific data analysis. Specifically, this module provides in-depth training in the use of spreadsheet software for collating, analysing and summarising scientific data.

  • Gene Technology 2.1

    Credits: 5

    The Gene Technology 2.1 module provides students with a fundamental knowledge of classical genetics upon which a framework can be built, to understand contemporary methods of molecular biology and genetic analysis. The module will introduce students to mendelian genetics, heredity and the solving of inheritance problems, the structure of nucleic acids and genes, and the molecular mechanisms of transcription and protein synthesis.

  • Biochemistry 2.1

    Credits: 5

    Biochemistry 2.1 provides students with knowledge and skills to enable engagement with the scientific principles of biomolecule structure, function and physiologic context, with emphasis on the role of biochemistry in clinical medicine, veterinary science, food and biotechnology industries.

  • Mathematics and Statistics for Life and Physical Sciences 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This course will develop the students mathematical skills giving them an essential facility to solve problems in the life and physical sciences.

  • Organic Chemistry

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to examine the chemistry, structure and reactivity of the main functional groups in organic chemistry with a special emphasis on those molecules of biological interest; to develop an understanding and familiarity with mechanistic concepts; and to equip the student with the necessary laboratory skills to carry out a safe synthesis and analysis of a simple organic compound.

  • Analytical Techniques 1

    Credits: 5

    This module is an introduction to the theoretical basis of common analytical methods including Spectroscopy and Chromatography Techniques and Titrimetry. This includes UV-Vis, IR, and Fluorescent Spectroscopies, Column, TLC, GC and HPLC chromatrography techniques and common titrimetry methods.

  • Microbiology 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This module builds on fundamental microbiological concepts studied in year 1 Biology and provides the learner with knowledge of general microbiology emphasising asepsis, microbial laboratory methodologies, and an understanding of the role of microorganisms in industry, medicine and the environment.

  • Cell Biology

    Credits: 5

    This Cell Biology module will provide students with the fundamentals of mammalian cell biology. It will involve exploring the components of the cell, their structure, function and location in the cell. The students will be introduced to cell interactions, including cellular interactions with their environments forming tissues. The students will be provided with the opportunity to explore different cell types, their lifecycles and their role in cellular disease, and will introduce special techniques for the study of cell structure and function.

  • Gene Technology 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The Gene Technology 2.2 module builds on knowledge gained by the student in the Gene Technology 2.1 module. It introduces students to key themes and experimental techniques in gene regulation, recombinant DNA technology, oncogenes/tumour suppressors, the genetic basis of disease, a fundamental grounding in genetic analysis in forensic science.

  • Biochemistry 2.2

    Credits: 5

    Biochemistry 2.2 provides students with an in-depth knowledge of metabolism, enzyme catalysis, endocrine hormones and cellular signalling. Biochemical disturbances underlying various disease states will also be evaluated. Laboratory skills for the isolation and functional analysis of biological macromolecules will be acquired. The relevance of biochemistry concepts and laboratory techniques in medicine, the bio/pharmaceutical and wider industry and in environmental sustainability will be elaborated.

  • Mathematics and Statistics for Life and Physical Sciences 2.2

    Credits: 5

    This course will develop the students probability and statistical skills giving them an essential facility to solve problems in the life and physical sciences.

  • Analytical Techniques 2

    Credits: 5

    This modules builds on Analytical Techniques 1 by studying further common analytical techniques. These include Atomic Absorption and Emission spectroscopies, Mass spectroscopies including GC/MS, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and X ray analysis. The chromatographic techniques studied include Electrophoresis, Capillary Electrophoresis, Ion Chromatography, SFC and GPC/SEC chromatographies. Other techniques introduced include Radiochemical methods, Thermal Methods of analysis, Microscopic methods and Electrochemical methods.

  • Microbial Genetics

    Credits: 5

    This module will elaborate on selected topics relating to the molecular biology and genetic engineering of bacteria and yeast. The biotechnological application of bacteria and yeast for the generation of commercially important products and processes will be described. Learners will engage with the practice of various recombinant DNA technologies used for the genetic manipulation and molecular characterisation of microorganisms.

  • Advanced Cell Biology

    Credits: 5

    This module will explore the structures and functions of membranes and subcellular organelles in the cell. It will look at membranous organelles in the cell and show how they act as an integrated network for protein and lipid trafficking. The module will also look at how cells communicate with their environment, exploring how these signals are interpreted by the cells resulting unvaried responses and effects in cells. The module also gives the students experience in mammalian cell culture techniques and allows for analysis of data resulting from experiments on these cells.

  • Applied Genetic Engineering

    Credits: 5

    Students will study the application of recombinant DNA technology and genetic analysis in the context of eukaryotic systems. The genetic modification of eukaryotic cells for heterologous protein expression, and the generation of transgenic organisms will be reviewed. The tools and technologies for analysis of DNA sequence, gene expression and regulation and will be evaluated. The module will present an overview of the application of recombinant DNA technologies in the industrial, agricultural, pharmaceutical and biomedical sectors.

  • Quality and Compliance

    Credits: 5

    Quality management is a key part of the highly regulated manufacturing of drugs, biologics and devices. The module will give an overview of how quality is maintained throughout the manufacturing process from raw materials all the way through to the finished product. The learner will become familiar with quality systems’ compliance in the manufacturing process and also in the laboratory

  • Immunotechnology

    Credits: 5

    In this module the learner will develop their knowledge of the molecular and cellular components of the immune system. The module will enable the learner to acquire a theoretical and practical knowledge of a range of immunotechnologies currently applied for clinical research and diagnostics.

  • Molecular Biology

    Credits: 5

    Molecular Biology provides a comprehensive knowledge of the molecular organisation of eukaryotic genes and genome structure. The molecular mechanisms underlying DNA damage, DNA repair and mutagenesis will also be emphasised. The genetic basis of disease and emerging trends in disease gene discovery will also be evaluated.

  • Environmental Biotechnology

    Credits: 5

    The Environmental Biotechnology module provides learners with comprehensive information on the diversity of prokaryotes in the biosphere, the central roles they play in different habitats and the suite of molecular biology techniques used to study microbial communities in environmental samples. This module provides a base of knowledge for the year 4 module Advanced Environmental Biotechnology.

  • Work Placement

    Credits: 30

    The aim of this module is to provide the learner with the opportunity to experience full-time employment in a workplace relevant to their degree where they can apply their academic knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. Ideally, the student will work in a Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility where they will experience the culture, nature and structure of working in a regulated and/or scientific setting.

  • The list of modules below are the alternative modules to work placement

  • Environmental Science and Sustainability

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the fundamentals of environmental science and the relevance of sustainability to their course of study. Threats to environmental sustainability such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, pollution, population increase and over harvesting of resources will be investigated in a team-based learning environment. An understanding of potential applications of green technologies, renewable energies and circular economic strategies is the ultimate outcome of this module.

  • Industry Relevant Project

    Credits: 15

    The aim of this module is to provide the student with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of scientists working in the Biotech industry. Students will gain deeper understanding of Quality Systems including compliance and regulatory requirements that underpin work practices in both Laboratory and Manufacturing facilities (cGLP and cGMP). They will develop their understanding of bio-manufactoring facilities, including the key roles that plant layout and utilities (air and water systems) play in achieving required manufacturing standards. They will be introduced to topical Lean practices applied in both manufacturing and laboratory-based environments and will map a product through the key stages of manufacturing/laboratory proceses recognising the role utilities and Lean processes play ensuring a compliant environment is maintained.

  • Bioethics (elective)

    Credits: 5

    This module introduces students to the areas of the life sciences that raise ethical and moral issues regarding human rights and animal welfare. The aim is to explain why some area of the life sciences raise controversial ethical issues, the range of viewpoints that often intertwine with religious and philosophical beliefs and how technological advances can raise new moral dilemmas.

  • Clinical Trials (elective)

    Credits: 5

    The way in which disease is prevented, detected and trated has been revolutionised by clinical trials, leading to the avoidance of premature death. They continue to be an expanding area of research and are central to the work of pharmaceutical companies. This module will focus on the design, conduct, management, analysis and reporting of clinical trials. It will provide theoretical and practical understanding of the issues involved in the design, conducy, analysis and interpretation of randomised controlled trials of health interventions.

  • Analytical Biotechnology 4.1

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce the major tenets of analytical biotechnology to students, allowing them to translate knowledge assimilated to unique skill-sets to suit various roles. Students undertaking this module will be provided with a keen awareness of aseptic drug manufacture and the opportunity to discover new and emerging analytical biotechnological techniques and their applications.

  • Applied Cell and Molecular Biology

    Credits : 5

    This module will expand on the science of genetic disease exploring technological advances emerging from the disciplines of molecular biology and cell biology.. Emerging concepts in disease mechanisms and treatment, such as the role of the microbiome, aging and senescence, non-coding RNA, epigenetics and nanotechnology will be reviewed.

  • Bioinformatics

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce students to bioinformatics. Upon completion of this module students should have an appreciation for the principles of current and emerging bioinformatics approaches to addressing biological problems and have gained experience in applying this knowledge in hands on computer based practical sessions.

  • Bioprocess Technology 4.1

    Credits: 5

    To provide the student with theoretical and practical knowledge of bioreactors, growth characteristics and uses of industrial cell lines, the structure of industrial bioprocesses and a thorough understanding of the manufacture of biotechnological and biopharmaceutical products

  • Research Methods

    Credits: 5

    This module focuses on the process of systematic inquiry through to the design of a research study from its inception to the final report. The emphasis will be on active learning and developing students that are self-motivated, critical thinkers that can work independently or as part of a diverse team

  • Experimental Design and Validation for Biopharmaceuticals

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide the learner with a solid foundation in a wide variety of statistical data analysis techniques used in biopharmaceuticals with particular emphasis on the ability to design experiments and critically analyse the data produced. This module will also provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of the principles underpinning validation and qualification of processes, equipment, procedures and systems used in the implementation and maintenance of a compliant biotechnological environment.

  • Analytical Biotechnology 4.2

    Credits: 5

    Through this module students will learn how to apply their knowledge of analytical biotechnology in both research and industry. Emerging from this course students will envision biotechnology as a global driver of change, integrating new technologies and personalised healthcare.

  • Bioprocess Technology 4.2

    Credits: 5

    To provide the student with a thorough understanding of the manufacture of biotechnological/biopharmaceutical products and the latest developments in protein engineering and advanced biological therapeutics.

  • Advanced Environmental Biotechnology

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the module Advanced Environmental Biotechnology is to acquaint students with the application of microbes and their natural capabilities to solving of modern day environmental and biotechnological problems. Building on knowledge gained from the module Environmental Biotechnology, the module expands into the areas of utilization of microbial activities, secondary metabolites and enzymes for wider biotechnological and environmental purposes.

  • Regulatory Affairs and Legislation

    Credits: 5

    This aim of this module is to introduce students to current the legal and regulatory rules and compliance criteria associated with development, approval process and manufacture of medicinal products, including pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and medical devices. The module will present the spectrum of regulatory affairs pertaining to specific activities of a company. The major Directives and Statutory Instruments which legally underpin the regulatory requirements for Agricultural Biotechnology and the use of GMOs will also be reviewed

  • Project

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to provide the student with the opportunity to work independently to develop in-depth knowledge of research design and methodology and to carry out research. The student will at the end of this module have carried out a piece of independent research and disseminated their results via thesis, oral and/or poster presentation. It is expected that the student will spend up to 6hours per week working in the laboratory or at the computer carrying out research as well as a number of hours independent workload completing the final report.

What can you do after this programme?

Typical employers for Biotechnology graduates include:

• Pharmaceutical and Biopharmaceutical companies.

• Medical technology and medical device companies.

• Research institutions (Universities, Institutes of Technology, Contract research organisations, State-run research institutions).

• Agriculture and crop production companies.

• Industries working in areas such as biodegradable plastics, biofuels, environmental monitoring and clean-up.

Graduates from the BSc (Hons) in Biotechnology will be academically prepared to enrol on a research degree programme (MSc/PhD) in TUS, or in other third-level Institutes. Graduates will also be qualified to undertake a variety of taught MSc programmes including the MSc Biopharmaceutical Technology and the planned MSc in Pharmaceutical and Chemical Analysis in TUS. Graduates may also apply to the Teaching Council for admission to Post Graduate in Education programmes for the teaching of second level Junior Certificate Science and Leaving Certificate Biology. The progression rules within the programme will follow the standard procedures for undergraduate taught programmes at TUS.

Student Testimonials

“…in my opinion this course is among the top courses on offer, with thoroughly researched modules which are well taught, the information presented in lectures is very applicable to any future career a student may aspire to, and the hands on practical experience gained during the course is unparalleled in any other course.” Hilary Cassidy, PhD. Lecturer/Assistant Professor, School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin (graduated 2003).

“…the course was well structured with good labs/lectures ratio which gives you a chance to get hands on experience on theoretical part of your studies – I found this very helpful in understanding complex aspects of Biotechnology, genetic engineering, and molecular biology as well as a great opportunity to use analytical instruments. The lecturers in AIT are very helpful and approachable which makes learning easier as you’re not afraid to ask questions. After completion of undergraduate degree I was determined to continue my education at a postgraduate level and I have completed a 21 month research Master in Polymer Engineering”. Gosia Poplawska, B.Sc. Biotechnology (graduated 2013). Technical Specialist for Project Management (graduated 2013).

“Studying Biotechnology at TUS has provided me with a lifetime of opportunities ranging from career opportunities in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and medicine. Throughout my degree, I gained experiences that enhanced my communication skills and overall growth. From being a peer assisted student support leader, to volunteering with cell explorers, and presenting at conferences, each endeavour strengthened my foundation. Joining many groups and clubs helped me make friends and network. This degree gave me a profound understanding of regulatory guidelines, analytical techniques, and advanced chemistry/biology which served as really useful when job hunting. Proficiency in high-tech instrumentation such as HPLC, IR, PCR, and GC became second nature. The genetics/biological modules fuelled my passion for human genetics, leading me to a Masters in Genetic and Genomic Counselling at Cardiff University. With entry into my Master’s being competitive, the skills and networks I built at TUS played a pivotal role to becoming accepted. Without a doubt, I felt supported along the whole journey by the TUS faculty. If you’re passionate for science and have curiosity for things at a molecular-level, TUS’s Biotechnology program may be for you.” Kayli Sousa Smyth, BSc Biotechnology (graduated 2022); MSc. Genetic and Genomic Counselling, Cardiff University.

“As a Biotechnology graduate, I can say that this course has given me a diverse range of knowledge on various sciences, in particular the biotechnological industry which is exponentially increasing as both the present and future in science. I was sure I wanted to do science in college, but unsure what kind of science I wanted to do, so I took the leap with Biotechnology in TUS Athlone. Throughout my four years; I was exposed to hands-on analytical techniques, which are relevant for both the pharmaceutical industry and the biopharmaceutical industry, which in turn allows for a wide range of job opportunities upon completion of the course. Personally, I have gone down the route of pharmaceutical analytics, thanks to Biotechnology at TUS Athlone, from which I received a job offer two months after completing my last exam in final year. Furthermore, my job is just a short distance from TUS Athlone, which is surrounded by many great opportunities in this field. What makes Biotechnology at TUS different from similar courses in similar universities is the guarantee of first-hand experience with important techniques that are relevant when job-seeking. While Biotechnology can be intense at times, the reward at the end is worth it! The course is also more ‘tight-knit’ than most other universities, which enhances opportunity availability and also creates great friends in your chosen career path! I am delighted to be a part of Biotechnology at TUS Athlone, and I am extremely thankful that I chose this course and I acquired fantastic guidance from the Biotechnology Faculty.” Keelin Irwin, BSc. Biotechnology (graduated 2023). Assistant Scientist at ThermoFisher Scientific, Athlone.

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