Program Overview

Overview of the M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences

The M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences is an integrated multidisciplinary course addressing fundamental and applied aspects of drug and drug product discovery, development, production, and analysis. This program prepares candidates for research careers in academia and industry in pharmaceutical R&D, as well as creates an awareness of issues and approaches relevant to Ireland's pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

Course Details

• NFQ Level: 9
• Duration: 1 year full-time, with the option for part-time study over two years
• Number of Places: 18
• Next Intake: September 2025
• Course Coordinator: Dr. Maria Jose Santos-Martinez/Dr. Eduardo Ruiz-Hernandez
• Closing Date: 28th June 2025

Admission Requirements

Applicants are sought from holders of an upper second-class (2.1) Honours degrees in relevant science disciplines, including Pharmacy, Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or Pharmacology. Equivalent primary and/or postgraduate qualifications are considered, particularly with relevant professional experience.

English Language Requirements

All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Structure

The course consists of lectures, workshops, presentations, and laboratory work. Formal classes run from September to April and are normally held two days every week, with the remaining time available to students for self-directed studies, writing tutor-marked assignments, preparing laboratory reports, and presentations.

Course Content

The program includes 10 compulsory taught modules:

1. Regulatory Aspects and Industrial Pharmacy
2. Natural Product Analysis and Regulation
3. Spectroscopic Methods for Drug Analysis
4. Molecular Pharmaceutics and Advanced Drug Delivery
5. Biopharmaceutical Sciences
6. Pharmaceutical and Medical Nanotechnology
7. Drug Discovery and Development
8. Biotechnology
9. Formulation Development and Evaluation
10. Professional Skills in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Students who wish to progress to the Masters course must complete a Research Dissertation and present a detailed scientific report at the end of the course. The project may be conducted either in the School of Pharmacy or at the student's place of employment, but in either case, supervision is exercised by a member of the School of Pharmacy academic staff.

Career Opportunities

This course prepares candidates for careers in pharmaceutical research relevant to academic and manufacturing sectors, as well as creates an awareness of issues and approaches relevant to the key pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Ireland. Graduates have enjoyed successful careers in manufacturing, in R&D, and in regulatory affairs.

Fees

For a full list of postgraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section of the university's website.

Testimonial

I enjoyed the invigorating environment of the university, which kept me motivated to achieve my goals. As a chemist, studying pharmaceutical sciences aligns perfectly with my future goals. I enjoyed the multidisciplinary nature of the course, especially the hands-on projects, which offered fascinating opportunities to explore new concepts and deepen my learning.

Mariya Sabu

Graduate

Related Courses

• Hospital Pharmacy (M.Sc.)
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technology (Online - M.Sc./P.Grad.Dip)