BSc (Hons) Biotechnology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology from University College Cork offers you a rigorous training in modern life sciences, equipping you to apply biological understanding for societal benefit. You will explore core areas including molecular biology, food biotechnology, immunology, protein science, bioinformatics, and process engineering. This undergraduate degree is ideal for aspiring scientists keen to delve into the principles of life at a molecular level and translate that knowledge into practical applications, addressing challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science. This programme provides a strong foundation for a career at the forefront of biological innovation.

This full-time, on-campus programme is structured over four years, guiding you through essential scientific principles and advanced biotechnological techniques. You will engage with subjects such as biochemistry, microbiology, and genetic engineering, developing critical analytical and practical laboratory skills. A key feature of your learning journey includes a compulsory work placement, offering invaluable industry experience, and a substantial final-year research project where you will investigate a topic of your choice. You will graduate prepared for diverse roles in the pharmaceutical, food, and environmental sectors, or for further postgraduate study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) Biotechnology program provides a comprehensive foundation in biological and chemical sciences, progressing through core modules in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, and physiology. Students will explore fundamental concepts in their first year, delve into more specialized areas like metabolic pathways and human physiology in their second year, and engage with advanced topics such as genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and biophysical methods in their third year. The final year focuses on practical applications through a research project, work placement, and case studies in various biotechnology fields, including microbial, food, and biopharmaceutical applications.

1 Year 1

Introduction to biochemistry and the biological basis of disease Core
Cells, biomolecules, genetics and evolution Core
Physiology and structure of plants and animals Core
Fundamentals of modern chemistry part 1 Core
Fundamentals of modern chemistry part 2a Core
Calculus for science part 1 Core
Calculus for science part 2 Core
Microbiology in society Core
Physics for biological and chemical sciences Core

2 Year 2

Biomolecules Core
Principles of metabolic pathways Core
Introduction to biotechnology Core
Introductory molecular biology Core
Fundamentals of microbiology Core
Principles of microbiology Core
Principles of human structure Core
Introduction to neuroscience, the brain and behaviour Core
Introductory physiology I Core
Introductory physiology II Core
Introduction to biostatistics Core

3 Year 3

Structural and experimental biochemistry Core
Molecular biology Core
Biophysical and biochemical methods Core
Bioinformatics Core
Literature project in biotechnology Core
The role and ecology of microbes in the environment Core
Genetic engineering and molecular biotechnology Core
Immunology: host response to pathogens. Core
Food and industrial microbiology II Core
Medical microbiology Core
Introduction to biochemical engineering Core
Introduction to pharmacology Core

4 Year 4

Protein science Core
Principles and applications of biotechnology Core
Work placement Core
Research project Core
Case studies in biotechnology Core
Microbial biotechnology Core
Biopharmaceutical and medical devices microbiology Core
Food biotechnology Core
Bioprocess engineering Core

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

7% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,412.00 USD 31,761.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,761.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,761.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,761.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 124,698.00 USD 127,047.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,595.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cork Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Early Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesEvent & Experiential MarketingHealthcare ConsultingMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementPerformance & Growth MarketingPharmaceutical ManufacturingSecondary & High School Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.

Cork University Hospital

Eli Lilly and Company

Health Service Executive

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine

MSD Ireland

Mercy University Hospital

Pfizer

Why Study BSc (Hons) Biotechnology at University College Cork

What makes this program stand out

Moderate Application response time

University College Cork typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University College Cork in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Biotechnology at University College Cork

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but students must be enrolled in a full-time program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements, such as a Duolingo overall score of 120 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5. Other accepted tests include TOEFL and PTE, each with their own score criteria.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible career paths include biotechnologist, research scientist, quality control analyst, and process engineer.

What will I actually study in this course?

A biotechnologist takes an understanding of life science and applies it to the benefit of mankind. The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology will provide students with an excellent training in modern biotechnology, including molecular biology, food biotechnology, immunology, protein science, bioinformatics and process engineering. Students will also be expected to complete a work placement and a final year research project.

The entry route to the BSc Biotechnology is through the general Biological

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology program has an intake in September each year. Ensure you apply early to secure your place.
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