By analysing the components of living cells, biotechnologists are learning how to control, fix and modify them to the benefit of global society. As a budding biotechnologist, you’ll focus on how the fundamental biochemistry underlying biological systems works with innovations in genetics, immunology and bioinformatics. To appreciate how solutions translate to commercial industrial scale, you’ll also need a good understanding of the core physical and chemical engineering principles pertaining to living cells. By studying a wide range of scientific and engineering subjects, you’ll gain the necessary skills to succeed in the emerging, technology-driven biotech industry. At the start of the Biotechnology course, you’ll be introduced to the basic sciences, mathematics and computing. As you progress, you’ll discover more comprehensive areas of biotechnology, ranging from genetics and process engineering to immunology and gene cloning. In third year, specialist areas are introduced. In addition, in Year Three you will have the opportunity to work in industry as part of our paid industrial training programme (INTRA). In fourth year there is a strong emphasis on choice, with students selecting from a wide range of subjects. You’ll also undertake a significant research project in your final year. Science courses at DCU provide an ideal opportunity to acquire hands-on experience, not only at the laboratory bench but also in meeting the challenges associated with ongoing creative research projects. Here you’ll be able to explore your true potential through practical work—much of which counts towards your final mark.

A minimum of six Leaving Certificate subjects at Grade 06/H7, to include the subjects English OR Irish AND the subject Mathematics. In addition, applicants must present at least two subjects at grade H5. A minimum of six Leaving Certificate subjects at Grade 06/H7, to include the subjects English OR Irish AND the subject Mathematics. In addition, applicants must present at least two subjects at grade H5.