Masters of Arts in Interdisciplinary Design
The Masters of Arts in Interdisciplinary Design offered by TUS Midwest...
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology
Athlone
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology program at the Technological University of the Shannon Midlands Midwest provides students with a thorough understanding of the principles and applications of biotechnology in various fields such as healthcare, agriculture, environmental science, and pharmaceuticals. This interdisciplinary program integrates coursework in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, and engineering to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills required for careers in biotechnology research, development, production, and innovation. Through hands-on laboratory experiments, industry placements, and research projects, students explore cutting-edge biotechnological techniques, tools, and methodologies, preparing them to address global challenges and contribute to advancements in biomedicine, agriculture, and sustainable development.
Fundamentals of Biotechnology: The program covers the fundamental concepts and principles of biotechnology, including genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology, molecular biology, and cell culture techniques. Students learn to manipulate genes, proteins, and microorganisms to produce valuable products such as vaccines, therapeutic proteins, biofuels, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). They also explore ethical, legal, and societal issues surrounding the use of biotechnology and biotechnological products.
Bioprocess Engineering: Students study bioprocess engineering principles and techniques used in the production of biotechnological products on an industrial scale. They learn about fermentation processes, bioreactor design, downstream processing, and quality control in biomanufacturing. Students gain practical experience in bioprocess optimization, scale-up, and technology transfer, preparing them for careers in biopharmaceutical production, industrial biotechnology, and bioenergy production.
Bioinformatics and Computational Biology: The program includes coursework in bioinformatics and computational biology, providing students with skills in data analysis, genomics, proteomics, and systems biology. Students learn to use bioinformatics tools and databases to analyze DNA sequences, predict gene functions, and model biological systems. They also explore the applications of bioinformatics in drug discovery, personalized medicine, agricultural genomics, and evolutionary biology.
Biomedical Applications: Students explore the applications of biotechnology in biomedical research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. They learn about biomarkers, diagnostic assays, medical imaging techniques, and regenerative medicine approaches used in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and infectious diseases. Students also study the development of biopharmaceuticals, gene therapies, and tissue engineering strategies for personalized medicine and targeted therapy.
Agri-Food Biotechnology: The program covers the role of biotechnology in agriculture, food production, and environmental sustainability. Students learn about genetically modified crops, agricultural biotechnology techniques, and crop improvement strategies to enhance yield, pest resistance, and nutritional value. They also explore food biotechnology applications such as food fermentation, food safety, and functional food production. Students investigate the environmental impacts of biotechnology and bioremediation approaches for pollution control and environmental conservation.
Professional Development and Industry Engagement: The program emphasizes professional development and industry engagement to prepare students for careers in the biotechnology sector. Students have opportunities to gain practical experience through industry placements, internships, and research collaborations with biotechnology companies, research institutes, and government agencies. They develop communication skills, teamwork skills, and project management skills, as well as professional competencies in laboratory techniques, regulatory compliance, and ethical conduct.
Location
Athlone
Score
IELTS: 6
Tuition Fee
€ 12500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 17 in each section.
- PTE: Overall score of 52 with a minimum of 50 in each section.
- DET: Overall score of 105.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
TUS: Midlands Midwest, situated in Ireland, provides various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support the academic aspirations of international students seeking to pursue their education at the institution.
Merit-Based Scholarships: The university offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding academic achievers. These scholarships often consider students' academic records, achievements, and potential contributions to the academic community.
Country-Specific Scholarships: TUS may offer scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions, encouraging diversity and inclusivity within the student body.
Financial Need-Based Scholarships: In addition to merit-based scholarships, the institution may provide financial need-based scholarships to students facing economic hardships, ensuring access to quality education irrespective of financial constraints.
Sports and Art Scholarships: TUS recognizes talents beyond academics and may offer scholarships to students excelling in sports, arts, or other extracurricular activities. These scholarships aim to support and nurture students' diverse talents.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology program at the Technological University of the Shannon Midlands Midwest offers graduates a wide range of career opportunities in biotechnology research, development, production, and commercialization. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, laboratory-based learning, and industry partnerships, the program prepares graduates to excel in diverse roles that contribute to scientific discovery, technological innovation, and economic growth in the biotechnology industry. Graduates emerge as skilled and versatile professionals equipped to address global challenges in healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, and industrial biotechnology, as well as to make a positive impact on human health, society, and the environment.
Biotechnologist: Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biotechnology program can pursue careers as biotechnologists in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, environmental science, and food production. Biotechnologists utilize their knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry to develop and optimize biotechnological processes, products, and applications. They may work in research and development, quality control, production, or regulatory affairs roles, contributing to the development of new drugs, vaccines, diagnostic tests, genetically modified crops, and bio-based materials.
Bioprocess Engineer: Graduates may work as bioprocess engineers, designing and optimizing biomanufacturing processes for the production of biopharmaceuticals, biofuels, enzymes, and other biotechnological products. Bioprocess engineers apply principles of chemical engineering, microbiology, and biotechnology to scale up laboratory processes to industrial-scale production. They may work in biotechnology companies, biopharmaceutical firms, or contract manufacturing organizations, overseeing fermentation, purification, and downstream processing operations to ensure product quality, yield, and cost-effectiveness.
Bioinformatics Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as bioinformatics specialists, analyzing biological data using computational tools and techniques to derive insights into genomics, proteomics, and systems biology. Bioinformatics specialists work in academic research, pharmaceutical companies, or bioinformatics software firms, developing algorithms, databases, and software tools for analyzing DNA sequences, predicting protein structures, and modeling biological systems. They may contribute to drug discovery, personalized medicine, agricultural genomics, and evolutionary biology research.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Specialist: Graduates may work as QA/QC specialists, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and quality assurance protocols in biotechnology manufacturing facilities, diagnostic laboratories, or research institutes. QA/QC specialists perform quality control tests, monitor process parameters, and analyze product samples to ensure consistency, purity, and safety of biotechnological products. They may also conduct audits, inspections, and validations to maintain regulatory compliance and uphold industry standards.
Research Scientist: Graduates can pursue careers as research scientists in academic institutions, government agencies, or private research organizations, conducting basic or applied research in biotechnology and related fields. Research scientists design experiments, collect data, analyze results, and publish their findings in scientific journals to advance knowledge in areas such as molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry. They may investigate topics such as disease mechanisms, drug targets, biomarkers, or genetic engineering techniques, depending on their research interests and funding opportunities.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Graduates may work in regulatory affairs, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and obtaining approvals for biotechnological products, processes, or clinical trials. Regulatory affairs specialists work for government agencies, regulatory bodies, or biotechnology companies, preparing regulatory submissions, managing interactions with regulatory authorities, and providing guidance on regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and risk management. They play a crucial role in obtaining product approvals, navigating regulatory pathways, and ensuring public safety and confidence in biotechnological innovations.
Business Development Manager: Graduates can pursue careers in business development, marketing, or sales roles within the biotechnology industry, promoting and commercializing biotechnological products and services. Business development managers work for biotechnology companies, consulting firms, or venture capital firms, identifying market opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and negotiating licensing agreements or distribution contracts. They may also conduct market research, develop marketing strategies, and coordinate product launches to drive revenue growth and market expansion in the biotechnology sector.
