Program Overview

Biotechnology

Course Information

The BSc Biotechnology is a four-year, full-time program that provides students with an excellent training in modern biotechnology, including molecular biology, food biotechnology, immunology, protein science, bioinformatics, and process engineering.

Course Outline

• Year 1 Modules:
  • Core modules in the four main branches of science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Maths.
  • Biology modules include Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry.
• Year 2 Modules:
  • Specialization in biology modules, including Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry.
• Year 3 Modules:
  • Dedicated course of lectures and practical laboratory modules encompassing Microbiology, Biochemistry, Process Engineering, and Pharmacology.
• Placement:
  • A 5-month industrial placement at the end of Year 3 in an industry and/or laboratory relevant to biotechnology.
• Year 4 Modules:
  • Dedicated set of courses in Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Process Engineering.
  • A supervised research project in a research laboratory in UCC.

Course Practicalities

• Expected Lecture Hours: 288 hours per year, conducted between 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
• Expected Lab/Practical Hours: 216 hours per year, including a 6-week lab-based project in the area of Biotechnology.
• Costs:
  • Lab manuals/lecture hand-outs: approximately €15 per year.
  • Textbooks: students typically spend between €50-100 per year on books.

Assessment

• Written Exams: Before Christmas and in May.
• Practical Components: Laboratory reports and assignments.
• Placement and Final Year Project: Assessed using a combination of laboratory/placement performance, written report, and oral presentation.

Why Choose This Course

• Unique Combination of Modules: From Microbiology, Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Pharmacology, and Process Engineering.
• Placement: A mandatory 5-month industrial placement at the end of Year 3.
• Career Opportunities: Ideal for students with a broad interest in the application of life science.

Requirements

• Refer to CK402: For more information on requirements.

Fees and Costs

• EU Students: Tuition fees are paid by the State for eligible students under the Free Fees Scheme.
• Non-EU Students: Fees are applicable; see the Fee Schedule for more information.
• Scholarships: Available to students; check the website for more information.

How to Apply

• Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants: Apply via the CAO.
• Mature Applicants: Apply via the CAO by 1 February.
• QQI/FET Applicants: Apply via the CAO.
• Non-EU Applicants: Apply online via the UCC Apply portal.

Similar Courses

• BSc Microbiology
• BSc Biochemistry and Cell Biology
• BSc Process Engineering