Course Summary
The MSc Biotechnology at University College Cork is a one-year full time postgraduate programme designed to equip graduates with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for careers in the biotechnology and biopharmaceutical 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 must have at least a Second Class Honours Grade 1 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8), in a subject(s) related to that of the MSc programme. Relevant subjects typically include those in the molecular and cell biology areas of the life sciences
Applicants with a Second Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8), in a subject(s) related to that of the MSc programme (relevant subjects typically include any subject in the molecular and cell life sciences) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants with qualifications in related areas of science and technology, at a minimum Second Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) and with proven and relevant industrial experience may be considered for admission under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) following assessment and interview by the Programme Director.
All applicants must have appropriate experience of laboratory-based training and/or research, such as laboratory-based research project/s undertaken as part of the applicants’ undergraduate degree and/or independent laboratory-based training or research projects undertaken in academia or industry.
The specific details of this laboratory-based training and research experience must be uploaded separately by the applicant as part of the application process.
The number of places to this programme is limited and selection will be made on the basis of the applicants’ academic performance, laboratory research training and experience and interview (where appropriate).
For Applicants with Qualifications Completed Outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. For more information see our Qualification Comparison page.
International/Non-EU Applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.
In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.
Note that not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above. For more information contact the International Office.
English Language Requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements. Visit our PG English Language Requirements page for more information.
Application Details
Closing Date 6 March 2026
Non-EU Closing Date
28 November 2025
Start Date 7 September 2026
Fees
The EU fee for this course is €7,130 (excluding €1,000 bench fee).
The Non-EU fee for this course is €23,100 (excluding €1,000 bench fee).
Deposits
If your course required a deposit, that figure will be deducted from your second semester fee payment in January.
EU student fee payment
Fees for EU students are payable in two equal instalments. First payment is at registration in August and the second in January.
International student fee payment
International Students can pay in two equal instalments once they have paid the appropriate deposit. The initial payment is due on registration and the balance usually by the end of January.
How can I pay?
You can pay by Credit/Debit card online or by credit transfer.
Questions?
If you have any questions on fee payment email our Fees Office at [email protected].
Bench Fee: Please be advised that a €1,000 bench fee is also required, payable directly to the department.
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
The course is suitable for students wishing to extend their specific undergraduate degree knowledge in biotechnology, with additional education and training and the opportunity to gain ‘real-world’ experience of working in the biopharmaceutical industry. This links academic theory and study to real industry work practise, the latest technology and the possibilities for future employment.
It allows you to follow a number of career pathways. Each year, 90% of MSc Biotechnology graduates gain employment within industry, while 10% decide to pursue PhD opportunities nationally and internationally.