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BSc BIOTECHNOLOGY

Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE

Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)

CAO/PAC code : MH202

CAO Points : 431

Closing Date : 01 July 2024

View QQI details

Biotechnology describes how we can gain understanding of biological processes and explores how they can be exploited for beneficial and commercial purposes. It explores the nature of biological molecules, how they are synthesised and how they can be produced, in culture systems, using living cells.

It explores all aspects of modern molecular biology including recombinant DNA technology, antibody production and uses, and animal cell culture. It covers disciplines including genetics, molecular biology, immunology, molecular microbiology, biochemistry, and cell biology.

  • You will reinforce your theoretical studies with practical laboratory sessions, visits to industrial firms, and ideally a placement in a biotech company (subject to availability).
  • As well as being taught by leaders in the field, you will reinforce your theoretical studies with practical laboratory sessions, visits to industrial firms, and ideally a placement in a biotech company (subject to availability).
  • Working to produce new drugs at the cutting edge of medical research (for example, antibodies used to treat cancers, or vaccines to prevent cervical cancer or hepatitis B), to develop new diagnostic systems for human or animal health and to improve food production.
  • Study a range of disciplines including genetics, molecular biology, immunology, molecular microbiology, biochemistry, and cell biology.
  • There is a transfer pathway from first year MH201 Science to second year MH202 Biotechnology for students who have taken Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and another subject. Students must attain 60% at the end of first year. Places are limited and are based on first year results.

Duration: 4 years 

1st year

  • Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and 1 other Science subject (Experimental Physics or Mathematical Physics)

2nd year

  • Concentrate on Biotechnology, Chemistry, and 1 of the other 2 subjects you studied in 1st year (excluding Critical Skills)
  • Optional 10 credit Elective

3rd year

  • Focus mainly on Biotechnology and Chemistry

4th year

  • Concentrate on Biotechnology
  • Industry work placement (subject to availability)
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

Graduates typically work in the biopharmaceutical area producing new drugs at the cutting edge of medical research, (for example, antibodies used to treat cancers, or vaccines to prevent cervical cancer or hepatitis B), to develop new diagnostic systems for human or animal health and to improve food production. Graduates also find career opportunities in the food science industry.

We currently offer the following postgraduate courses:

  • MSc Biology (Research)
  • MSc Immunology and Global Health (Taught)
  • PhD Biology

Visit the Graduate Studies 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 written tests that may be required, please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2024 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 2024

Additional Information

Leaving Certificate Applicants

Required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English, Science subject (i.e. Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry) & O4/H7 Mathematics. MH202 Round 1 Points 2023: 431

HEAR & 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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