Course Summary
The MSc Biotechnology equips you with the skills, knowledge and vision to drive innovation in medicine, industry, agriculture and environmental sustainability. With a legacy of excellence and a strong record of graduate employment, this programme blends cutting-edge science with real-world applications, preparing you to shape the future of global biotechnology solutions.
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 must hold a Second-Class Honours degree (2.2 or above) in a relevant discipline such as biology, biotechnology, microbiology, biomedical science, biopharmaceutical science, environmental science, marine science, or a related field. Any qualification should include certified skills and knowledge in molecular biology, cell biology and microbiology.
Candidates with equivalent qualifications or significant relevant work experience will also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Application Details
Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.
An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).
Next start date: September 2026
Fees
Fees: EU
€8,640 full-time; €4,355 part-time (including levy) p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Tuition
€8,500 full-time; €4,250 part-time p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Student levy
€140 full-time; €105 part-time p.a. 2024/25
Fees: Non EU
€27,000 p.a. (€27,140 p.a. including levy) 2024/25
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant—please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2023/24). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. An F5 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.
Postgraduate fee breakdown = Tuition (EU or NON EU) + Student levy as outlined above.
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
Industry-relevant modules like Protein Technology, Quality Management Systems, Frontiers in Biotechnology, and Entrepreneurship will give you the skills employers are looking for in today’s rapidly evolving biotechnology sector.
Graduates have found employment in biotechnology, environmental, and pharmaceutical roles, including research scientists, process development engineers, regulatory affairs specialists, product managers, and policy advisors. The MSc in Biotechnology also provides a strong foundation for further study and research, serving as a gateway to progression onto a PhD.
Recent graduates of this course have gone on to work for companies such as:
Chanelle Pharma
Pfizer
Eli Lily
Baxter
Regeneron