MSc in Biopharmaceutical Technology

Why take this course?
Athlone Institute of Technology has successfully produced highly employable biotechnology graduates at NFQ level 7 and 8 since the programmes were initially offered in 1996. The Master of Science/ Postgraduate Diploma (MSc/PgD) in Biopharmaceutical Technology builds on the expertise and industry links AIT has developed over this time. The programme was conceived in response to significant job opportunities within Ireland’s large and expanding biopharmaceutical sector. In addition to lectures and laboratory sessions at AIT, and site visits to local biopharmaceutical plants, students on the MSc/PgD will receive practical training at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT) in Dublin.

NIBRT is a replica of a functional bioprocessing plant, equipped with all of the manufacturing equipment you would expect to find in a modern bioprocessing facility (for example, upstream, downstream, fillfinish and bioanalytical facilities). The NIBRT placement will allow students to gain handson experience of the processes involved in biopharmaceutical production.

What will I experience?
AIT’s MSc in Biopharmaceutical Technology runs from September to August. The programme consists of theory and practical classes which are held at AIT, a training period in the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT), site visits to biopharmaceutical plants and guest lectures from individuals working at the cutting edge of the biopharmaceutical industry.

What opportunities might it lead to?
Nine of the top ten global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies have significant operations in Ireland and seven of the ten worldwide ‘blockbuster’ drug products are manufactured in Ireland. The Irish Government’s Expert Group on Future Skills Needs has identified the Biopharma sector as one which will continue to require highly qualified and skilled scientists over the coming years. The modules offered on the Master of Science/Postgraduate Diploma in Biopharmaceutical Technology were designed to meet these identified current and future skills shortages in the Irish and international Biopharmaceutical sector. The programme also provides a route towards a career in Research and Development within academia and industry. Graduates from this programme can expect to develop careers in a variety of roles in the Biopharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotechnology and Medical Diagnostics sectors.