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What is the BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science course?

The BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science is a four year honours degree course, which can be chosen within the SE501 - Bachelor of Science (Hons) Common Entry is course is designed to train you to work in the areas of biopharmaceutical, biomedical, and/or food related industries. The course will also train you for progression to further study such as postgraduate research and/or the Professional Master of Education (PME).

Why is Level 8 Molecular Biology and Biopharmaceutical Science important?

Industry needs suitably qualified graduates with hands-on practical experience to be part of exciting developments in the field of biopharmaceutical and related sciences. New advances in biotechnology use microorganisms as well as other cell types to produce drugs and other useful products. The nature of such work requires scientists who understand cellular processes and how they can be controlled. This four year degree is designed to train you in processes such as analytical testing, advanced molecular biology techniques, microbiological analyses, biopharmaceutical technology and cell culturing techniques which are important skills required to work in biopharmaceutical, biomedical, food and related industries.

What subjects will I study?

Year 1 of this programme will give you a solid foundation in both the theoretical knowledge and basic lab skills in biology, chemistry and physics. As you progress through years 2, 3, 4 of the programme you will gain specialist scientific skills in areas such as microbiology, molecular biology, pharmaceutical biotechnology, cell culturing, pharmacology as well as quality management which are key skills for your future career.

What are the unique features of your course?

You will spend a lot of time learning key practical skills by working in SETU Waterford laboratories. In addition to molecular biology and biopharmaceutical skills our close links with industry ensure that you will be exposed to other current industry techniques especially in the area of quality management and regulatory affairs and compliance.

What career opportunities will I have?

There are many career opportunities, for instance you could become a:

Laboratory Analyst (Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biopharmaceutical & Analytical Science)
Team Leader (Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biopharmaceutical & Analytical Science)
Senior Scientist (Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biopharmaceutical & Analytical Science)
Development Scientist (Technical Services)
Quality Control Analyst (QC Analyst)
Quality Assurance Coordinator (QA Coordinator)
Technical Lead (Responsible for acquisition of new products/drugs)
Postgraduate Researcher (MSc or PhD)

What follow on study options are available?

After completion of the level 8 programme you will be eligible to apply for relevant postgraduate programmes. SETU Waterford has a range of successful and well-funded research projects in a variety of biological areas. In addition to a career in industry or research you will be suitably qualified for progression to the Professional Master of Education.

Research at SETU Waterford

SETU Waterford lecturing staff teaching on this course are active in a range of successful and well-funded research projects in a variety of biological areas. Current research interests are in molecular biology, molecular ecology, biomedical science, microbiology and biochemistry.