Course Summary
The MSc in Biotherapeutics educates students on the practical uses of molecular advances in the discovery of protein and other biomolecular drug candidates and their development into biotherapeutics.
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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.
Entry Requirements
The programme is intended for applicants who have an Upper Second Class Honours Degree, or international equivalent, in a biological or chemical science. This includes a BSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Physiology, Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification.
Graduates with equivalent qualifications in related areas of science and technology or with proven relevant industrial experience may be considered for places. The number of places is limited and selection will be made on the candidate's performance in his/her primary degree and experience. A significant amount of lab experience will be required, e.g. a laboratory based project or equivalent component(s), at a senior stage of the student's degree.
2 academic references will be required, at least one to be from a science faculty member.
Early Applications
In previous years, all spaces on this suite of programmes have been offered by May of the previous academic year. Please submit your application as soon as possible.
English Language Requirements
If English is not your native language, unless you have done your primary degree through English in an English speaking country, an English language qualification is required for all programmes. English Language qualifications include a minimum score of 550 (213 computer based) for Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or 6.5 (with a score of 6 obtained in each category) for International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Other evidence of proficiency in English may be accepted such as the Cambridge Certificate. Tests used as evidence of language proficiency must have been completed within the last 12 months.
Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s Pre-Sessional or International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes. Please see the following link for further information http://www.ucd.ie/alc/programmes/pathways/
These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes.
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/
Application Details
Apply online
Who Should Apply?
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: Yes
F102 Biotherapeutics (Master of Science) Full-Time
Commencing September 2026
Graduate Taught
Fees
MSc Biotherapeutics (F102) Full Time
EU fee per year - € 12500
nonEU fee per year - € 29100
***Fees are subject to change
Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website. Please note that UCD offers a number of graduate scholarships for full-time, self-funding international students, holding an offer of a place on a UCD graduate degree programme. For further information please see International Scholarships.
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
This graduate degree in Biotherapeutics has been developed in consultation with the Biopharmaceutical industry and is recognised and valued by them. A key feature is the undertaking of a significant drug discovery and development laboratory project which is reviewed by industry partners. This engagement is designed to help graduates identify opportunities in the industry at the earliest stage.
Prospective employers include Novartis, GSK, Eli Lilly and Co., Johnson & Johnson Ltd., Pfizer, Janssen Biologics, AstraZeneca, MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Abbott and Sanofi.
Duration
Delivery: On Campus.