• » Bachelor of Science Honours in Bioanalytical Science

    Programme Title  Bachelor of Science Honours in Bioanalytical Science
    CAO Code  
    LYIT internal code  LY_SBIOA_B
    Duration  1 Year, post level 7 degree
    Standard Code Places:  18
    National Framework Level  8
    Award Type  Major
    Awarding Body  LYIT, under Delegated Authority from HETAC
    Is this Programme for Me?
    This programme is designed to meet the demand for reliable bioanalysts in the areas of molecular biology, analytical science, biotechnology, immunology and in the pharmaceutical industry. The programme builds on the knowledge gained by students in the Level 7 B.Sc. in Applied Bioscience, or its equivalents. It may be completed in one academic year (two semesters) or on a part-time basis. The programme aims to broaden the extent, scope and depth of the student's knowledge.
    The B.Sc. in Bioanalytical Science provides a clear knowledge of the underlying concepts behind modern bioanalytical techniques and experience in application of these techniques in the areas of biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and related industries and in environmental analysis . Graduates are provided with technical competence in biochemical, genetic, immunological and microbiologically-based analytical methodologies and the skills and knowledge required to work in the biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries as well as in state scientific agencies. It also provides the necessary skills for those students who wish to pursue further post-graduate studies or research.
    The programme covers areas such as Molecular Diagnostics and Bioanalytical Techniques, Analytical Science and Applied Practical Analysis, Industrial Processes, Biopharmaceuticals, Quality Systems and regulatory affairs of the pharmaceutical and food industries, and Advanced Immunology. Other modules include data analysis and research project design. The students carry out an extensive research project during the course, develop essential practical research skills, and strengthen the presentation and communication skills acquired in previous years.
    Minimum Academic Entry Requirements
    This is two semester, add-on, Honours Degree programme for students who have achieved a Level 7 B.Sc. in Applied Biology with Biotechnology or B.Sc. in Applied Biology with Environmental Science. Students who have successfully completed level 7 qualifications in other areas of Science with 180 ECTS credits and appropriate learning outcomes would also be considered for acceptance.
    What will I have to study?
    Year/SemesterModulesMandatory/
    Elective    		No of creditsClass hours per week
     4/7  Applied Practical Analysis Mandatory  5  5
     Analytical Science Mandatory  5  5
     Research Project Design Mandatory  5  3
     Regulation of the Pharmaceutical & Food Industries Mandatory  5  3
     Toxicology Mandatory  5  4
     Data Analysis Mandatory  5  3
     4/8  Molecular Diagnostics Mandatory  5  4
     Bioanalytical Techniques Mandatory  5  6
     Research Project Mandatory  10  3
     Industrial Processes and the Biopharmaceutical Industry Mandatory  5  4
     Advanced Immunology Mandatory  5  4
    Learning Outcomes
    Learning outcomes of this programme include the following. The graduate will
    • Be able to understand the new emerging technologies in the field of bioanalytical science
    • Have a knowledge of the principles and applications of modern biological and chemical analytical techniques
    • Be able to critically select the appropriate analytical technique for a particular biological, chemical or environmental sample
    • Have developed laboratory skills in the manipulation of nucleic acids and proteins and have an understanding of bioinformatics analysis as a tool for investigating biological data.
    • Have a detailed understanding of the immune system and understanding of advanced immunological technologies and the application of immunological methods in both a research and clinical setting.
    • Have an understanding of the rational behind drug development and manufacture of Biopharmaceutical products.
    • Have knowledge and practical experience of a range of molecular diagnostic techniques and an understanding of advances in molecular diagnostics and their applications in research and industry.
    • Have a clear understanding of how unit operations are applied in industry to develop process and produce a finished product.
    • Be familiar with legislation governing the authorisation of medicinal products in Ireland and in Europe and have an appreciation of the role of the Irish and European Regulatory authorities in the regulation of medicinal products.
    • Be aware of the mathematical and statistical methods underlying advanced data analysis
    • Understand procedures and relevance of validation to manufacturing industries
    Are there follow-up Programmes Available?
    This course has been recognized by the Teaching Council as fulfilling the requirements for admission to the Register for Post Primary Teachers, for the purpose of teaching Biology in Secondary Schools.
    Graduates may pursue postgraduate studies by research at LYIT.
    Graduates from this programme may also pursue further studies to Masters level at other Universities in Ireland or abroad, or in some cases transfer to programmes leading to the award of a Doctoral Degree.
    Career Opportunities
    Graduates find employment in analysis, quality assurance, research and development, and in innovation and product development areas of biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food, and health care companies.
    Current forecasts about the future of the Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industries in Ireland are excellent. High-profile companies include Allergen, Wyeth BioPharma, Schering Plough, Genzyme Megazyme, Abbott Ireland, Merck Sharpe and Dohme, Takeda and Pfizer.
    Holders of the B.Sc. Honours degree can obtain more senior and responsible positions than holders of Level 7 qualifications. Graduates may also pursue postgraduate degrees in the science department at LYIT and in other third level institutions.
    This course begins in September each year. How to Apply
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
    • Contact: Dr Anne Nelson Head of Department of Science, Letterkenny Institute of Technology by
    • E- Mail: anne.nelson@lyit.ie
    • Telephone: (074) 918 6302