Applicants must have obtained at least a Second Class Honours Grade 1 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in a subject(s) related to the programme. These include Process and Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or another relevant engineering or life-science subject.

Consideration under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may also be given to applicants who do not meet the minimum academic entry requirements as stated above but who present with significant and directly relevant work experience. An interview may also be required for such applicants.

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.

Closing Date
Rolling deadline. Open until all places have been filled. Early application is advised.

Non-EU Closing Date
Open until all places have been filled or no later than 15 June. Early application is advised.

Start Date: 8 September 2025

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.

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

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.

Skills and Careers Information
Our MEngSc Industrial Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing graduates will be highly sought-after in the bioeconomy sector, which includes food production, bioenergy generation, biomanufacturing, and industrial biotechnology. There is already a global shortage of scientists and engineers for these industries and thus opportunities will continue to increase as the sector expands. These opportunities will be global as all countries are implementing policies to implement the circular, bio-based economy.

As an MEngSc graduate, you will not only have the technical (science and engineering) skills needed to develop solutions, but you will also have the transversal personal skills and attributes that are vital for work in the industrial sector.