BSc (Hons) in Biopharmaceutical Science (Add-On)
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Course Overview
Graduates of the BSc in Bioscience and BSc in Pharmaceutical Science (or equivalent) can progress to this one-year, full-time, honours degree course. The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biopharmaceutical Science (Add-on) is a one-year Level 8 honours degree designed for learners who want to progress their qualifications and build specialist expertise for careers in one of Ireland’s fastest-growing industries. Delivered over two semesters on a full-time basis, this programme combines advanced scientific knowledge with practical industry-focused skills.
Students develop a strong understanding of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, upstream and downstream processing, regulatory compliance and process engineering. The programme also explores emerging areas such as genomics, bioinformatics and Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs), preparing graduates for the future of healthcare innovation. A significant feature of the programme is the Biopharmaceutical Research Project, where students apply scientific methods, solve technical challenges, analyse data and present findings in professional written and oral formats
What makes this course different
Industry-Relevant Curriculum
The programme is specifically designed to meet the needs of Ireland’s expanding biopharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, focusing on the technical skills employers value most.
Specialist Focus on Upstream & Downstream Processing
Students gain expertise across the full manufacturing lifecycle - from cell culture (in a state-of-the-art cell culture facility) and fermentation through to purification and product recovery.
Future-Focused Science
Modules in genomics, bioinformatics and Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products ensure graduates understand the next generation of medicines and personalised healthcare
Hands-On Research Experience
The integrated research project gives students valuable experience in laboratory investigation, problem-solving, data analysis and scientific communication
Career Opportunities
Graduates have opportunities for employment in the following sectors:
- Biopharmaceutical manufacturing
- Biotechnology and life sciences
- Pharmaceutical production
- Quality assurance and quality control laboratories
- Regulatory affairs and compliance
- Research and development
- Genomics and bioinformatics
- Advanced therapeutics and cell/gene therapy
- Environmental monitoring and validation services
Graduates could expect to compete for positions such as:
- Biopharmaceutical Process Technician
- Manufacturing Scientist
- Processing Associate (Upstream or Downstream)
- Quality Control Analyst
- Quality Assurance Specialist
- Validation Technician
- Regulatory Affairs Associate
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Research Assistant / Research Scientist
- Laboratory Analyst
- Data Analyst (Life Sciences)
- ATMP Production Associate
- Technical Operations Specialist
- Validation Specialist
Course Delivery and Modules
This course is delivered via a mixture of lectures, practicals and tutorials. Practicals include laboratory work.
- Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing and Regulatory Requirements
- Biopharmaceutical Processing (Upstream)
- Biopharmaceutical Research Project (year-long)
- Genomics and Bioinformatics
Education Progression
Graduates of the B.Sc. (Hons) Add-on in Biopharmaceutical Sciences can pursue Level 9 taught postgraduate programmes, as well as Level 9 and 10 research programmes. This includes research opportunities at Level 9 and 10 available at DkIT.
Graduates have successfully progressed to further education and research opportunities at prestigious institutions across Ireland and beyond. Many students have pursued advanced degrees, professional certifications and research roles, demonstrating the versatility and academic rigor of the programme.
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Fees and Funding
Please find information on fees and funding here: www.dkit.ie/fees
Entry requirements
B.Sc. in Applied Bioscience or B.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Science, or equivalent, with an overall Pass.
Student Stories
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Dr. Leanna Morgan
Norin McArdle
How to apply
Apply Directly to DkIT
Apply directly to DkIT using our online applications system. Please remember to upload the required documentation (copies of your existing qualification(s), your CV, any other support documents etc) with your online application to expedite your application. To avoid disappointment early registration is recommended.
Ask us a Question
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Disclaimer: All module titles are subject to change and for indicative purposes only. All courses are delivered subject to demand and timetables are subject to change. Elective Module options will only run subject to student numbers. The relevant Department will determine the viability of each elective module option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose that option. Students will be offered alternative elective modules on their programme should their preferred elective option not be proceeding. Award Options for Common Entry Programmes: The relevant Department will determine the viability of each award option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose either option. If the numbers for one of the Award options exceed available places, students for this option will be selected based on Academic Merit (highest grades).