Course Summary
This 3-semester long part-time course has been designed to is to help science, engineering and related graduates to re-skill or up-skill with the required knowledge and skills to assist them in gaining employment in the Healthcare, Manufacturing, Biopharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Medical Devices and related Life Sciences industries.
College Link
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.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have a level 8 major award in Engineering/Science
OR
a Level 7 major award in a cognate Science discipline
OR
a Level 7 major award in Engineering with a minimum of 2 years’ experience in the Pharmaceutical/Biopharmaceutical Industry.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language must have English level of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
Applicants who do not meet these academic criteria may be admitted though the DkIT Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Learn more about RPL at DkIT
Such candidates are assessed through a reference-supported application and interview.
Application Details
Start date September 2026
Fees
Course is free if you qualify via one of the springboard categories else €998 if employed.
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
Graduates from the Higher Diploma in Science in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing will have professional skills and knowledge in the area of biopharmaceutical production. They will be able to effectively contribute and progress in (bio)pharmaceutical or related settings, in areas such as manufacture, validation, quality assurance, quality control, and regulatory affairs. Graduates could also seek further educational qualifications in a (bio)pharmaceutical or related area.
Duration
This course is delivered using a blended learning approach with weekly on-line classes, and hands-on practical lab-based sessions (at the end of the semester). Students will also be expeted to undertake directed and independent study.
Online classes runs Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5.30-9.30pm.
Students have to attend DKIT for 3 days (09.00 to 16.30hrs) at the end of each semester for laboratory-based classes.
Please note: Final exams may be scheduled in the DkIT campus during the daytime.
Due to the blended learning delivery within this course students should have access to PC / Mac, a headset with a mic, and a broadband internet connection from home, so as to be able to fully participate in the course.