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BSc BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE

Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)

CAO/PAC code : MH208

CAO Points : 470

Closing Date : 01 July 2025

View QQI details

Degree Overview
>This is the study of life, from the fundamental building blocks of our genes to the largest animals that inhabit our planet; how living things work – how they interact with one another and their surroundings, and how they change and evolve; and it involves the application of biomedical science to clinical research.
>Students learn how to use analytical and technical procedures to monitor and improve human health and to investigate disease and study the science that is broadly similar to the pre-clinical component of a medical degree.
>Students also learn how to ask questions, make observations, and analyse evidence – in theory work and through practical laboratory sessions – and to present and communicate findings clearly while developing computer literacy and research skills.
>There is a transfer pathway from 1st year MH201 Science to 2nd year MH208 Biological & Biomedical Sciences for students who have taken Biology, Mathematics and another two subjects. More details about potential MH201 transfer opportunities. 
>The main strengths of the Department include Biological Control, Bioinformatics, Immunology, Medical Mycology, Molecular Genetics and Plant Biotechnology and staff have international reputations and expertise in these areas.
>Students enjoy the opportunity to study a Bachelor of Arts subject in first year such as Economics, Spanish or Anthropology. Alternatively, students can choose a Bachelor of Science subject.

Duration: 4 years

1st year

  • 30 credits of Biology in 1st year 
  • 15 credits Mathematics
  • 15 credits of one other Science or Arts subject: available Science subjects are Chemistry, Computer Science or Experimental Physics. Compatible Arts subjects: Anthropology, Business (International), Business (Management), Business (Marketing), Economics or Spanish

2nd year

  • Concentrate on Biology and Biological Science, along with Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science or Experimental Physics (if taken in 1st year). Mathematics is taken if you chose an Arts subject.
  • Optional 10 credit Critical Skills or Elective available in 2nd year

3rd year

  • Choose from a range of Biological and Biomedical Science topics depending on your preferences

4th year

  • Choose from a range of Biological and Biomedical Science topics depending on your preferences
Course Duration: 4 years

Biology - Paul Moynagh - Maynooth University

Head of Department

Department of Biology


Department of Human Health Institute

Lorna Lopez - Biology - Maynooth University

Academic

Department of Biology


Department of Human Health Institute


Department of Hamilton Institute

Biology - Conor Meade - H&S

Academic

Department of Biology

After Graduation
>Students graduate with either a BSc in Biological Science OR a BSc in Biomedical Science.
- BSc Biological Science graduates pursue careers in research, industry, and teacher training.
- BSc Biomedical Science graduates pursue careers in research, industry or enter graduate entry degree programmes (e.g. medicine, pharmacy, veterinary) or engage in Biomedical research.
- The BSc in Biomedical Science does not qualify to work in a hospital diagnostic laboratory, although graduates do work in clinical research.
>The Department of Biology offer a range of postgraduate study options.

Visit the Department website for more information about postgraduate options.

This table displays the requirements for Leaving Certificate applicants.
Subject Required Ordinary Level Grade Higher Level Grade
Irish Yes O6 H7
English Yes O6 H7
Language No N/A N/A
Math Yes O4 H7
Science Yes O6 H7

International & EU/EFTA Entry Requirements

Mature Students

Mature Applicants 

Mature applicants are assessed separately to school-leavers. Mature applicants are 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. For part-time/flexible degrees the mature age is 21. 

Click here to be taken to our mature applicant information page - tab 3 on that page outlines application steps for this degree.

Mature applicants who have a disability 

If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia), and require examination support for any required written exercise/interview which may form part of your application assessment please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2025 to the Access Office. Unfortunately we are unable to consider applications for alternative examination accommodation after this deadline.  

For further information on the supporting documentation required, as well as examination and other supports visit the Access Office website.

01 February 2025

Additional Information

Leaving Certificate Applicants 

Required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English & Science subject (one of Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry) & O4/H7 in Mathematics. MH208 Round 1 Points 2024: 470

HEAR and DARE

DARE: The Disability Access Route to Education is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers whose disabilities have had a negative impact on their second level education.

HEAR: The Higher Education Access Route is a third level admissions scheme for school leavers from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Contact the Access Office for more information about these access routes.

The Maynooth Education

Click here for details about optional Critical Skills courses, Electives and degree pathways. 

APPLY TO THE CAO - WWW.CAO.IE

The application process depends on the type of applicant you are. Click here for all information about how to apply.

Categories of applicant:

  • School-leavers (Leaving Certificate students)
  • Mature students (23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University/part-time degrees the mature age is 21)
  • EU/EFTA/UK students
  • International students (outside the EU)
  • QQI (Further Education) students
  • Transferring students
  • Deferring students
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