This programme will provide learners with the opportunity to further their skill, or to re-skill and make a positive contribution to the economy by gaining an understanding of the dynamics of the Biopharma/Pharma Medical Device sector.

From an industry perspective this will ensure they are skilled in making decisions, solving problems and prepared for the workplace of the future. According to the IDA, the biopharmaceutical industry has invested approximately US$10 billion in new facilities, most of which has come in the last 10 years. Ireland hosts 10 of the world’s top 10 pharmaceutical companies and in 2014 was the 7th largest exporter of medicinal and pharmaceutical products worldwide. Ireland’s biopharmaceutical industry is currently responsible for 45,000 jobs and accounts for 62% of the country’s exports.

This programme is designed to meet the current and emerging needs of Ireland’s biopharma, pharma and medical device sectors as they progress towards greater integration of new technology, increased compliance and the ever-changing requirements of agility and innovation to remain competitive in the industry. Employers within these sectors increasingly require employees to have more advanced knowledge, skills and competences to manage the exacting requirements within the professional, highly regulated and internationally competitive sector.

Online and TUS Athlone Campus

• Process and Equipment Validation
• Lean Six Sigma
• Research Methods
• Analytical Tools for Characterising Biopharmaceuticals
• Quality by Design and Project Management
• QA-Compliance Standards and Auditing

Eligible candidates should have a first or a second class honours grade or an international equivalent in a Biology or Chemistry-related primary degree (for example Biotechnology, Toxicology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Science, Genetics, Neuroscience, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Physiology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification).

Graduates who hold equivalent qualifications in related science and technology disciplines or who have relevant industrial experience will be considered for places on a case-by-case basis.

Online – Induction for the September 2023 programme takes place (online via Zoom) on Saturday 09th September from 9.30am to 1.00pm. Classes commence week beginning Monday 11th September 2023.

This is a HCI Funded Programme.

This programme will be fully funded for eligible unemployed applicants.

Eligible employed applicants and eligible recent graduates (Summer 2022 and 2023) will be 90% funded. They will have to pay 10% directly to TUS Midlands. The 10% payable is €885.

1 year, 3 Evenings per week ONLINE, plus some on campus practicals.  This programme will be delivered primarily online, but there will be approx 3-4 laboratory classes in semester two. These will take place in Athlone on Saturdays and students will be given advance notice of these dates.

Students may have to attend TUS, Athlone Campus in person for examinations.

NFQ Level 9
(60 Credits)