Analytical chemistry deals with the great variety of methods used to identify and quantify the chemical components of materials, while pharmaceutical chemistry focuses on aspects of drug design, synthesis, and manufacture.

An analytical chemist is trained to use modern analytical techniques and instruments to develop strategies to detect, identify and quantify substances such as the pollutants in air and water, illegal substances in suspicious powders and the active pharmaceutical ingredients in medicinal products.

This course, which includes rigorous scientific training and a six-month work placement, will make you work-ready.

Analytical Chemistry is the speciality dealing with devising, selecting, and using methods for determining the identity and quantity of chemical composition of samples such as drugs, medicines, food and beverage, water, air etc.

These have key components that are present at very low levels or concentrations, and many sophisticated techniques have been developed for their detection and analysis.

During this interdisciplinary course, you will  learn both the theoretical and practical aspects of chemical, biochemical and microbiological analysis. In first year, you’ll gain essential background knowledge in chemistry, biology, mathematics and physics, and get hands-on laboratory experience. From second year on, you’ll focus on analytical science and from third year, you’ll specialise in either chemical or biological analysis.

Analytical scientists investigate the chemical nature of substances to identify and understand how they behave in different conditions. In the pharmaceutical industry, for example, analytical scientists are involved throughout the drug manufacturing process to ensure the quality and stability of drug products.

The human body is a complex structure of systems all working to maintain optimum human health. This anatomy and physiology course is designed to equip learners with knowledge of the structure and function of each of the systems of the human body and an understanding of the interrelationship between the systems of the body.

This is an ideal course to build a strong foundation of knowledge in human anatomy and physiology.  It is particularly suited to anyone undertaking higher education courses without previous knowledge of anatomy and physiology or where this subject is a core element.

Ancient and Medieval History and Culture concentrates on the period c. 2000 BC to c. 1500 AD. It explores the changes in society, politics, religious practices, and art and architecture that have helped to shape the world we live in.

Over the four years of the programme you will explore topics including the development of different systems of government (from democracy in ancient Greece to monarchy and empire in the Middle Ages), the formation of Europe, ancient and medieval belief systems and religious practices (from the pantheon of ancient deities to the dominance of Christianity), the development of the legal system, and the role of warfare in bringing about change. 

You will enjoy this course if you are interested in studying the history and culture of the Greeks and Romans – their achievements and their profound influence on the modern world – through the complementary study of history and archaeology. You will have the opportunity to get practical experience and take part in Study Tours.

You will study the Greek and Roman worlds by working with historical and literary documents alongside the material remains of ancient sites and artefacts. All material is studied in translation and no knowledge of Greek or Latin is required, but there are opportunities to take introductory modules in the languages.

Ancient History and Archaeology are both concerned with understanding social, political and cultural experience in the past. This course offers you the opportunity to range across these two broad disciplines. You will study the Greek and Roman worlds by working with historical and literary documents alongside the material remains of ancient sites and artefacts. All material is studied in translation and no knowledge of Greek or Latin is required, but there are opportunities to take introductory modules in the languages.

Ancient History and Archaeology are both concerned with understanding social, political and cultural experience in the past. This course offers you the opportunity to range across these two broad disciplines. You will study the Greek and Roman worlds by working with historical and literary documents alongside the material remains of ancient sites and artefacts. All material is studied in translation and no knowledge of Greek or Latin is required, but there are opportunities to take introductory modules in the languages.

Ancient History and Archaeology are both concerned with understanding social, political and cultural experience in the past. This course offers you the opportunity to range across these two broad disciplines. You will study the Greek and Roman worlds by working with historical and literary documents alongside the material remains of ancient sites and artefacts. All material is studied in translation and no knowledge of Greek or Latin is required, but there are opportunities to take introductory modules in the languages. 

UCD’s Animal and Crop Production programme offers a comprehensive education in the science and business of animal and crop production. You will learn about the development and improvement in farm animal and crop production, gain broad knowledge on growth, physiology, nutrient utilisation, agribusiness, agri-environment and develop the skills to create economical and sustainable agricultural production systems. Plus, you will gain communication and IT skills to help you stay up-to-date on evolving technical, economic, and regulatory frameworks.

Our biological science degree in Animal Bioscience has a major focus on animal health, disease and diagnostics. The animal biosciences discipline is experiencing significant growth, both nationally and internationally, due to an increased demand for diagnostics to underpin animal health and disease management globally.

 The Animal Care / Veterinary Assistant program is a foundational course designed for individuals passionate about working with animals and pursuing a career in the veterinary or animal welfare sectors. The curriculum provides a comprehensive introduction to basic animal care, clinical assistance, and laboratory procedures, ensuring students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical handling skills. It is specifically structured to prepare learners for immediate entry-level employment or to serve as an academic stepping stone. 

Become an expert in grooming companion animals – studying in our designated animal grooming facility. Study to support vets and veterinary nurses in a veterinary practice with components in veterinary assisting skills, animal welfare, safety and health at work, and customer service.

Deepen your understanding of companion animals with components in biology and animal anatomy and physiology. Develop your expertise in our animal science lab.

Use your qualification to progress on to veterinary nursing and science degrees.

A one year course of specific interest to applicants wishing to pursue a career in the Dog Grooming/Animal Husbandry industry. Applicants will study a range of subjects relating to animal care and grooming. Emphasis will be placed on the skills and practices required to work in a modern dog grooming studio.

This course provides comprehensive training in animal welfare, veterinary assistance, and behavior, focusing on domestic and captive animals. Through laboratory sessions and anatomy modules, learners gain deep technical knowledge supported by field trips, guest speakers, and a standalone Canine First Responder qualification. A mandatory 60-hour work placement ensures students gain invaluable practical experience, often leading to direct employment or further career opportunities in the veterinary sector.

Students will gain knowledge and skills to allow them to work in a variety of animal care facilities. You will have the opportunity to:

• Understand and describe animal anatomy and physiology
• Practice and promote animal welfare standards
• Show fundamental biology knowledge
• Execute basic animal grooming techniques
• Analyse and interpret animal behaviour
• Use word processing software effectively
• Provide excellent customer service in animal care settings
• Communicate effectively with clients and colleagues
• Apply knowledge and skills in a real-world work experience setting

This one year course provides students with a very solid foundation in Animal Care and Grooming. Often graduates progress to a degree in Veterinary Nursing, Zoology, Biochemistry, Animal Science and Animal Behaviour.

This course may be of interest to students who are considering pursuing a degree in Veterinary Nursing and animal care. It is also of particular relevance to those who have an interest in setting up their own Animal Grooming business or for those who wish to progress to further study.