UG Prospectus 2025

50 WhyDCU? − Longest-established biotechnology course in Ireland − Modern course integrating emerging new technologies and transversal skills − Multidisciplinary academic staff within the School of Biotechnology − 9month paidwork placement (INTRA) at home or abroad in Year 3 − Biopharmaceutical streamoption − Final year research project option About You Do you have an inquisitive and analytical mind? Are you interested in the application of the basic sciences? If you have basic competency inmathematics, then you should thrive in Biotechnology. Additional Requirements In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the University (see page 174), the following entry requirements apply: minimum of O3 or H6 inMathematics PLUS minimumof O3 or H5 in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemistry, Agricultural Science or Computer Science. Understanding: Biotechnology Biotechnology ismaking significant contributions to global society. By studying the components of living cells, we can learn how to control, fix andmodify them to our benefit. This knowledge is already leading to the creation and manufacture of products that help in the diagnosis and treatment of disease (e.g. the production of antibiotics, insulin and other genetically engineeredmedicines, such as safer recombinant vaccines). Biotechnology also contributes to services in areas like healthcare, food, agriculture, energy and the environment. Biotechnologists find newand innovative solutions to problems encountered in society. They need a good fundamental grasp of the biochemistry underlying biological systems and a good knowledge of the exciting innovations occurring in genetics, immunology and bioinformatics. To understand how solutions apply on a commercial industrial scale, they also need a good understanding of the underlying physical and chemical (bioprocess) engineering principles pertaining to living cells. Course Structure Youwill study awide range of scientific and bioprocess engineering subjects, youwill gain the necessary skills to succeed in the emerging, technology-driven biotech industry. In Year 1, youwill study the basic sciences andmathematics, with an introduction to bioprocessing. Year 2 develops the biological and engineering aspects of Biotechnology. Year 3 introduces specialist areas of biology, such as immunology, genetic engineering and cell culture. In your bioprocess engineeringmodules, you will be introduced to bioreactors, primary separations and downstreamprocessing. In Year 4, the underlying biological and engineering principles of biotechnical processes are developed in an integrated manner, and you can choose either a BioPharma specialisation, which includes content focusing on the biopharmaceutical industry, or a research specialisation that includes an 8week research project conducted in the research laboratory of your project supervisor. Here youwill work with postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers on cutting edge problems in biology and bioprocess engineering. INTRAWork Placement In Year 3, youwill have the opportunity to undertake a 9month long paid work placement (INTRA) giving you a unique opportunity to enhance your CV, increase your employability, and apply your knowledge and skills in the real world. Our experience has been that students who have been on INTRA have a significant competitive edgewhen seeking employment after graduation. For more information, please visit dcu.ie/intra BSc in Biotechnology Apply biology to improve the quality of human life