Certificate in Fundamentals of Cell Culture Techniques
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Course Overview
This Cell Culture practice focused module provides hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and its application to biopharmaceutical processes. You will develop both technical and professional competencies in aseptic handling, maintenance, cryopreservation, recovery, and quantitative analysis of cultured cells. These skills reflect the critical steps used in upstream bioprocessing workflows - ranging from maintaining healthy cell stocks to assessing cell viability and cytotoxic response.
Designed for beginners and early career learners, the course emphasises best practice and troubleshooting in a laboratory setting.
Understanding the Industry
Industry has highlighted through SECBA project engagement that there is a significant need for specialised expertise in many fields such as bioinformatics, analytical chemistry and biotechnology. Quality assurance and control are particularly crucial, with industry seeking competent analysts, Qualified Persons (QPs), and professionals skilled in Quality Management Systems (QMS) and ISO standards.
The growing reliance on technology, including computerised information management, automation and digital skills like bioinformatics and statistical analysis, further underscores the need for graduates with strong tech proficiency. Regulatory compliance, especially in Quality Control, validation, and adherence to standards, is also a priority. However, a noticeable talent gap exists, particularly for roles requiring specialised skills (e.g. Bioprocessing). This highlights the importance of ongoing education and training in related fields to address the skills shortage and ensure a steady pipeline of qualified professionals for the sector.
Career Opportunities
Learners could gain employment within the sector (e.g. Wu-Xi Biologics, Pfizer, Almac, MSD, AbbVie, Grifols, Amryt Pharma etc.) and undertake the programme to obtain a recognised qualification.
Some learners may undertake the programme to ‘re-skill’ and move into the area, they are not employed, or perhaps employed in other Biopharmaceutical areas.
Course Delivery and Modules
Delivered over 5 Full days of practical experience in a cell culture suite at DkIT supported with online lectures to solidify knowledge.
Module Learning Outcomes
• Maintain mammalian cell lines under sterile conditions.
• Perform subculturing, cryopreservation, and recovery with accuracy.
• Apply analytical and imaging-based methods to evaluate cell health
• Demonstrate traceability, record-keeping, and adherence to GMP-style documentation
Topic 1
- Characteristics of mammalian cells - Adherent versus suspension cells
- Cell culture laboratory - Aseptic technique, Classes of BSC, Incubators,Inverted Mircoscope, Autoclave, Disposables, reagents, aliquoting
Topic 2
- Classes of cells - Primary, Continuous, Stem cells
- Cells Banks - Master & Working cell bank
- Cell Growth Media
Topic 3
- GCCP
- Cell Morphology
- Confluency
- Thawing cells
- Counting cells
- Seeding/Plating cells
- Subculture - Adherent versus Suspension
- Cryopreservation
Topic 4
- Cell growth curve
- Contamination of Mammalian cells
Topic 5
- Viability Assays (MTT, ATP)
- Determination of EC50
Education Progression
Graduates may progress to the Higher Certificate/ Diploma in Science in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing or similar level 8 programmes. Graduates of the Higher Diploma will be able to progress to level 9 taught postgraduate and Level 9 and 10 research programmes, including Level 9 and 10 research opportunities in DkIT.
Certificate in Science in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing New course
Higher Diploma in Science in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing
Fees and Funding
This programme is funded through the South East Cross Border Alliance (SECBA) project, supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Fees
Entry requirements
Standard Entry Requirements
- Applicants should have a level 8 major award in Engineering / Science (or equivalent)
or - a Level 7 award in a cognate Science discipline (or equivalent)
or - a Level 7 award in Engineering with a minimum of 2 years’ experience in the Pharmaceutical / Biopharmaceutical Industry (or equivalent)
- Applicants for whom English is not their first language must have English level of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
Non-Standard Entry Requirements
Any non-standard entries will be covered by Recognition of Prior Learning.
The part-time programmes are not available to international applicants (the programme includes delivery of practical content on campus, part-time programmes do not fulfil visa requirements).
Recognition of Prior Learning
Applicants who do not meet the standard academic entry requirements but have significant relevant experience (certified and/or experiential) may apply to access this programme via the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) route. Learn more about RPL at DkIT
How to apply
Applications will open soon. Register your interest below and we’ll notify you once they open.
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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).