MSc in Bioprocess Engineering

Program Overview

The MSc in Bioprocess Engineering at Dublin City University equips graduates with advanced knowledge and skills in bioprocess design, operation, and analysis. It prepares students for careers in the biopharmaceutical industry, including research and development, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs. The program is taught by experienced academics and industry professionals and offers access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Program Outline

MSc in Bioprocess Engineering at Dublin City University

Degree Overview:

This program is designed to:

• Update and upgrade the knowledge, understanding, and skills of graduates interested in pursuing or currently working in the Biopharmaceutical industry.
• Retrain graduates working in related disciplines by providing advanced-level modules in the theory, analysis, design, and practical methodology of the rapidly evolving subjects associated with this sector.

Key Program Objectives:

• Equip students with a strong understanding of the fundamentals of bioprocess engineering.
• Develop advanced practical and theoretical skills in bioprocess design, operation, and analysis.
• Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities applicable to the biopharmaceutical industry.
• Provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue further research in bioprocessing or careers in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Program Structure:

• This program is delivered via a combination of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and independent study.
• Students are required to complete a total of 60 credits, consisting of 40 credits of taught modules and 20 credits of a research dissertation.
• Students can choose from a variety of taught modules, including:
• Biopharmaceutical Production
• Bioprocess Design and Operation
• Downstream Processing
• Cell Culture Technology
• Bioprocess Modelling and Control
• Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
• Biopharmaceutical Analysis
• Regulatory Affairs for Biopharmaceuticals
• The research dissertation allows students to undertake a research project on a topic of their choice under the supervision of a member of the academic staff.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• BE517: Introduction to Bioprocessing (5 credits)
• BE515: Biopharmaceutical Production (5 credits)
• BE587: Downstream Processing (5 credits)
• BE560: Cell Culture Technology (5 credits)
• Semester 2:
• BE516: Bioprocess Design and Operation (5 credits)
• BE525: Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (5 credits)
• BE561: Bioprocess Modelling and Control (5 credits)
• BE526: Biopharmaceutical Analysis (5 credits)

Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• BE527: Regulatory Affairs for Biopharmaceuticals (5 credits)
• BE500: Dissertation (20 credits)

Part-time Option:

• Part-time students can complete the course anytime within a four-year period, with a recommended completion time of two years.
• Students can take three taught modules each semester and complete the dissertation project during a summer semester.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods vary depending on the module but typically include a combination of coursework, examinations, and presentations.
• The research dissertation is assessed based on the quality of the research, the written report, and the oral presentation.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals.
• The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions.
• Students are encouraged to participate actively in class and to seek guidance from the teaching staff.

Careers:

• Graduates of this program are well-equipped for careers in the biopharmaceutical industry, including roles in:
• Research and development
• Process development
• Manufacturing
• Quality control
• Regulatory affairs
• The program also provides a strong foundation for further academic study at the PhD level.

Other:

• This program has been awarded the Postgraduate Course of the Year Award in Health Sciences at the Gradireland Higher Education Awards in 2017 and 2018.
• The program is delivered in collaboration with Trinity College Dublin and the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT).
• Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated bioprocessing laboratory.

Contact Information:

David Collins

Program Chair Email: david.collins@dcu.ie Phone: +353 (0) 1 700 6213

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Full time EU Status Fee €7,200 per annum Non EU Fee. €16,500 per annum Part time EU Status Fee Part-time 5 Credit Module €368/Dissertation (30 credits) €2,208/Part time capitation fee €170 Non EU Fee Part time 5 Credit Module €824/Dissertation (30 credits) €4,945/Part time capitation fee €170