Course Summary
By studying on this programme, you can come to understand the genetic basis for life and how this information can be used to investigate, diagnose and treat diseases. You’ll also gain practical laboratory skills, as well as skills in communications, critical thinking and problem-solving. Furthermore, you’ll gain skills in computational biology, which uses high-tech data analysis and modelling to help harness genetic and biological insights.
DCU has a 30-year history of innovation in Bioprocessing Teaching and Research with a strategic investment in a new Microbial Bioprocessing Facility in the School of Biotechnology. This new facility aims to provide students with access to the most industrially relevant equipment and processes, whilst also acting as an innovation hub for microbial bioprocessing in the north Dublin region. Whether you choose our BSc in Biotechnology or BSc in Genetics & Cell Biology, you’ll become part of a lively community of Biologists, Bioinformaticians and Engineers in an industrial and research-driven environment.
Academic Spotlights:
Demystifying Maths and Computers
Many students who choose biological subjects have a self-proclaimed fear of maths and few have coding experience. To interest them in statistical equations or the use of lines of code is a difficult task. Yet this is exactly what Dr Emma Finlay, a lecturer in the School of Biotechnology, has successfully mastered.Click HERE to find out more.
A More Efficient Means of Producing Medicine
At DCU’s Faculty of Science and Health, cutting-edge research takes place in labs across the campus daily. Scientists work behind sealed doors to find ways to enhance technology and medicine. One scientist doing just this is Alan Costello, who is undertaking a PhD at the National Institute of Cellular Biology. Click HERE to find out more.
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Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Language Options
Language options with this course
The following language options are available to study as part of this programme:
* Time abroad utilising this language
Disclaimer: Details subject to change - always check with the college.
Note: It may also be possible to do an Erasmus+ Programme allowing you to study abroad for a
period of at least 2 months to 12 months. This study can be through English or through your
language of choice � please check with your course coordinator to see if this is possible
for this course.
Entry Requirements
Disclaimer: Details subject to change - If this is a course you are considering applying for you should check on the Colleges' website to ensure you have the latest entry requirements information.
If you believe the data above to be incorrect, please let us know at [email protected] - thank you.
PLC Progression Links
PLC courses leading to the following QQI Major Awards may be used for entry into this course.
Search for PLC Courses offering these awards (Click on the Codes)
| PLC Codes | Award Title |
| 5M3807 | Laboratory Techniques |
This Information is Correct for 2025 Entry
Points Calculator for QQI Awards:
Details of the QQI scoring system and a points calculator can be found
HERE
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
You will find employment in the many Irish industries that produce medical therapeutics, diagnostics and healthcare devices. Moreover, in recent years there has been significant growth in the production of medical and veterinary diagnostics and vaccines as well as the manufacture of medical devices.
Advances in genetics and cell biology have the potential to transform medical science and to make a significant contribution to improving the quality of life. This degree is the perfect starting point for a career in this area.
Further Research
DISCLAIMER: These links are to official sources of information for this course - we accept no responsibility for the information on them.
