Program Overview

Introduction to the MSc in Analytical Chemistry

The MSc in Analytical Chemistry is a one-year course designed to provide students with the theoretical and practical skills for employment in a diverse range of industries that require analytical expertise. The course curriculum consists of six months of lectures, laboratory practical sessions, career service workshops, industry-based workshops, and site visits, and a six-month research project.

Course Outline

The MSc degree courses are provided in three key areas of Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Analytical Chemistry, and in Pharmaceutical Analysis. They are designed to provide advanced knowledge and hands-on training in modern analytical instrumental techniques. Separation science, sensors, and spectroscopic techniques are key elements alongside chemometrics, instrumentation, and advanced research project completion. Students will have the flexibility to specialize in a chosen field and further advancement to Ph.D. research is available to highly motivated and talented postgraduates.

Core Modules

• CM6012 Modern Analytical Techniques, Chemical Data Analysis, and GLP (10 credits)
• CM6013 Separation Science, Sensors, and Process Analytical Technology (10 credits)
• CM6014 Materials, Pharmaceutical, and Bio-analysis (10 credits)
• CM6015 Practice of Analytical Chemistry (10 credits)
• CM6026 Industry Led Workshops (5 credits)
• CM6027 Taught Postgraduate Transferable Skills Development (5 credits)

Elective Module (10 credits)

Students take modules to the value of 10 credits from the following:

• PF6301 Biopharmaceuticals: Formulation Design, Secondary Processing, and Regulatory Compliance (10 credits)
• CM6029 Introduction to Quality and Regulatory Affairs for BioPharma (5 credits) & CM6031 Process Analytical Technology in BioPharma (5 credits)

Research Project Module (30 credits)

• CM6020 Research Project and Dissertation in Analytical Chemistry (30 credits)

Course Practicalities

The MSc may be taken full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months from the date of first registration for the programme. It consists of lectures, laboratory work on set experiments, and a dissertation based on individual research and development in the selected field of modern analytical science, under the supervision of an expert staff member.

Why Choose This Course

This is the most established Analytical MSc course in Ireland and is amongst the more popular MSc courses studied in UCC. The industry-led teaching agenda, the opportunity to complete a six-month placement in industry or an academic research lab, and the global recognition of the course make it highly attractive to students.

Requirements

Applicants must have a Second Class Honours Grade 1 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in a subject(s) related to that of the MSc programme. Relevant subjects typically include any subject in Chemistry, Engineering, or Life Sciences.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Full-time: 8,000 Part-time: 4,800. The Non-EU fee for this course is 27,000. A 1,000 bench fee is also required, payable directly to the department.

How to Apply

Applications are made online, and successful EU applicants will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 500 on acceptance of their place. The closing date for non-EU applications is open until all places have been filled or no later than 15 June. Early application is advised.