Program Overview

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Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Sandwich) BSc

Overview

The UK pharmaceutical industry headquarters two of the largest global companies in pharma and employs 63,000 people, with nearly half involved in research and development (R&D). Ireland’s sector has similar success and accounts for more than 5% of global pharmaceuticals production. Graduates entering this space play an important role in the development of new medicines with global employment opportunities existing at all stages of the product pipeline. Our BSc degree course in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology aims to create the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists, able to work in all stages of the drug development process as part of a multidisciplinary team. You'll learn about drug discovery, formulation, manufacturing, and regulation with a focus on biologics medicines. Working with some of the world’s leading researchers, you will be exposed to cutting edge technology that will feed into the pharmaceutical industry of the future.

Course Structure

• Introduction: During your course of study, you will develop breadth and depth in the skills, knowledge and experiences required for success in your future career. Both degree programmes have been developed in consultation with industry and involve a broad syllabus covering the design, evaluation, production, and testing of medicines.
• Level 1: All students take four modules: The first module provides an introduction to pharmaceutical microbiology, including aspects of disinfection and sterilisation, with a second module introducing foundational physical and organic chemistry, as well as spectroscopic methods of pharmaceutical analysis, which are widely used in industry. The third module addresses the mathematical, statistical and other general skills that are needed by pharmaceutical scientists to work effectively in the industrial sector, and other related areas. Finally, a physiology module covers the principles of general physiology and histology as well as an introduction to systematic pathophysiology.
• Level 2: This year provides further development and understanding of the basic/fundamental sciences related to pharmaceutical sciences and pharmaceutical biotechnology. Students are introduced to medicinal chemistry, analytical techniques and formulation. Further knowledge and practical expertise is developed across several other key subjects, including biochemistry, immunology and molecular biology. This training prepares students both for their placement* and their Level 3 research project.
• Level 3: The final year of each of these degree programmes builds upon the knowledge gained and skills developed in the first two years, and provides further specialisation in key areas, allowing graduates to work successfully within the industrial sector. Modules studied in the final year cover the following areas which include the design of large and small molecules, advanced delivery systems for these active ingredients, and their associated pharmaceutical analysis. Those specialising in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology study biological approaches to disease treatment and prevention and applied biotechnology and regulatory affairs.
• Year Out (Sandwich): Students who secure a placement will spend a minimum of 46 weeks in a work placement during which they will carry out some industry related work. Students will begin preparations for the placement in the first semester of Level 2 and the placement will be assessed within the module Professional Studies.

People Teaching You

• Dr. Peter Boyd: Director of Education
• Professor Lorraine Martin: Course Director Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Contact Teaching Hours

• Personal Study: 25 (hours maximum) Self Directed Learning
• Medium Group Teaching: 8 (hours maximum) 4 hours practicals 2 hours workshops 2 hours tutorials (Hours quoted are on average per week across programme)
• Large Group Teaching: 8 (hours maximum) Large Group Teaching (e.g. lectures) 6-8 hours per week. Please note: this is an average weekly amount across the teaching semester

Teaching Times

This course is a full-time taught across the week from Monday through to Friday (9-5pm)

Learning and Teaching

At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable students to achieve their full academic potential. The Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Sandwich) degree programme, provides a range of learning experiences, which enable our students to engage with world-leading research experts and develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work in the pharmaceutical and related industries. During their degree programme students will make use of advanced pharmaceutical equipment, develop knowledge of innovative drug delivery technologies and have access to a world-class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in a range of work-related learning opportunities and may opt for a placement period within the industry. This will help students build knowledge, understanding and operation of industrial processes and develop an ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team.

Assessment

Details of assessments associated with this course are outlined below:

• The way in which students are assessed will vary according to the Learning objectives of each module. The majority of modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and end of semester examinations. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first year induction.

Feedback

Students receive general and specific feedback about your work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and your peers. University students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work.

Facilities

Students have access to large teaching laboratories.

Entrance Requirements

• A level requirements: BBB including Biology and Chemistry + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 OR BBB including Biology and at least one from Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 OR BBB including Chemistry and at least one from Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Biology grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
• Irish leaving certificate requirements: H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in Biology and Chemistry + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics.
• Access Course: 80% average with no less than 70% in any module including sufficient relevant Level 3 modules in Biology and Chemistry (normally two Chemistry and two Biology). GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Chemistry and at least one of Biology (preferred), Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Biology grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 OR 32 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Biology and at least one of Chemistry (preferred), Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Chemistry grade C/4 or GCSE Double Award Science grades CC/4,4 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
• BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma: Not considered
• Graduate: A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree, provided any subject requirements are also met.

How We Choose Our Students

In addition, to the entrance requirements above, it is essential that you read our guidance below on 'How we choose our students' prior to submitting your UCAS application.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region.

English Language Requirements

An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at:

Tuition Fees

• Northern Ireland (NI): £4,855
• Republic of Ireland (ROI): £4,855
• England, Scotland or Wales (GB): £9,535
• EU Other: £26,600
• International: £26,600

Additional Course Costs

• Year 1 students: are required to buy a laboratory coat at a cost of £13.
• Students on placement year: are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and subsistence costs. These costs vary depending on the location and duration of the placement. Students may receive payment from their placement provider during their placement year.
• Students who take optional short placements: are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and subsistence costs of around £20 to £100 per week.

Scholarships

Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available.

International Scholarships

Information on scholarships for international students, is available at:

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at:

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students

1. Applying through UCAS: Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2026.
2. Applying direct: The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more.
3. Applying through agents and partners: The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.

Modules

• Properties and analysis of drug molecules: Chemistry is the defining science of pharmacy. To understand anything about a drug – including its synthesis, determination of its purity, its formulation into a medicine, the dose administered, its absorption and distribution in the body, the molecular interaction of the drug with its receptor, the metabolism of the drug, its elimination of drug from the body – requires an appreciation and understanding of the chemical structure of the drug molecule and how the chemical structure influences the properties and behaviour of the drug both in the body.
• Pharmaceutical Physiology - BSc: A study of basic physiology and tissue morphology that defines normal and abnormal physiology within the main body systems including: gastrointestinal tract; cardiovascular system; respiratory system; urinary tract; nerve and muscle; central nervous system; endocrine system; reproductive system.
• Basic Skills for the Pharmaceutical and Biopharmaceutical Sciences: In the first two weeks of semester you will complete a range sessions in lectures, workshops and practical sessions to help you develop the key skills required to transition from 2nd level to 3rd level education.
• Pharmaceutical and Applied Microbiology: The application of microbiology to the pharmaceutical sciences including the structure, function, nutrition and metabolism of bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa relevant to the pharmaceutical sciences, bacterial genetics, antimicrobial agents and antimicrobial resistance, the basic principles and methods of sterilisation and disinfection, contamination of pharmaceutical products, an introduction to microbial biofilms and infectious diseases.
• Mathematics and Statistical Skills: Development of mathematical and statistical methods that are required for the theoretical and practical aspects of the pharmaceutical sciences and pharmaceutical biotechnology.
• Introduction to Dosage Forms and Unit Operations: A foundational introduction to common dosage forms, unit operations and aseptic techniques that are applicable to pharmaceutical scientists working in the fields of small and large molecule drug delivery.
• Biotechniques: The module will develop understanding, knowledge, and practical experience of core laboratory techniques relevant to pharmaceutical biotechnology.
• Foundational Pharmacology: Designed to provide an introduction to the key principles of pharmacology, exploring the mechanisms by which many key classes of drug operate. Provides the essential foundation knowledge in regard to how drugs interact with the body.
• Pharmaceutical Analysis: The design, workings and operating principles of a range of analytical instruments. Methodologies relating to the use of such analytical instruments in qualitative and quantitative pharmaceutical analysis.
• Introduction to Drug Discovery and Design: The relationship between drug structure and biological function, focusing on how molecular properties influence therapeutic effects and side effects. Chemical strategies in drug discovery, with emphasis on contemporary computational approaches including chemogenomics, cheminformatics, and AI applications. Gaining industry-relevant skills in drug design while exploring the development principles of major therapeutic classes.
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: The molecular processes involved from genes to proteins and the biochemical basis of human metabolism will be studied. In addition, this module will provide an understanding of immunobiology to include the innate and adaptive immune system, as well as the genetic basis of antibody generation.
• Preparing for industry: The pre-placement sessions and associated material provide information that can be used to assist students in preparing to apply for employment, and also to prepare them for the work environment.
• Industrial Placement: Students complete a placement of at least 48 weeks, between Level 2 and 3, with a relevant pharmaceutical sciences/pharmaceutical biotechnology industry. The placement descriptor will depend on the placement provider and job specification. Pre-placement workshops will take place in Level 2, preparing students for placement and the process involved in sourcing a placement.
• Applied Pharmaceutical Biotechnology: This module outlines the application of biologics and biomolecules within the pharmaceutical and healthcare space focusing on the following themes: Delivery platforms, their formulation and administration routes Biological barriers to delivery Emerging technologies
• Microbial Biotechnology: This module will provide an overview of the physiological and ecological aspects of industrially important microorganisms to include the use and application of molecular biology and genetic engineering approaches. A description of different types of microbial products and their wide-ranging applications within pharmaceutical biotechnology will be covered, and the use of biocatalysts for production of drug precursors highlighted. The role of the microbiome in health and disease will be discussed. Finally, you will gain valuable practical experience and learn useful bioinformatics skills.
• Industry: Quality, Regulation and Entrepreneurship: This module will introduce students to the concepts of the commercialisation of pharmaceutical and biotechnological products. The students will learn aspects of the regulatory space that occupies and determines the mechanisms and structures of drug discovery, drug development, preclinical, clinical and post market surveillance. While learning these vital steps they will be trained in ‘Quality’ and learn how to execute tasks and scenarios using regulatory guidance documents. While learning about regulatory and quality, the students will get an insight to the conception of these products through learning about innovation and entrepreneurship and the process of getting ideas from the lab to the market – learning cutting edge research on drug product intermediates, formulations, biomaterials, processing, and production. Through this the students will also learn critical aspects of project management.
• Personalised Medicine and Therapeutics: This module will focus on the fundamental basis of how personalised medicine and biological/targeted therapies can be used to treat a range of maladies. This module will cover the latest developments in personalised medicine including biomarkers, molecular pathology, clinical trials and omics technologies. Furthermore, we will examine small-molecule and antibody-based drugs, in addition to other biotherapeutic strategies involving stem cells, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
• BSc Research Project Module: Lectures covering generic research skills; supervisor-led study sessions covering research techniques specific to the field of the project. Individual research project including project design and implementation; practical/fieldwork, literature searching; preparation of critical literature review and research report preparation; oral presentation of results. Case study including workshop, preliminary proposal, case study report and oral presentation of findings.