Biological, Health & Sports Science

TU Code:  TU5297

Level: NFQ Level 9
Fee: €900 for award programme, €350 for 5 ECTS single module certification
Award: Certificate in Science
Credits: 15 ECTS
Duration: 12 months
Course Type: Postgraduate
Mode of Study: Part Time
Method of Delivery: Classroom and practice-based learning
Assessment: Evidence based portfolio
Location: Grangegorman
Contact: biologicalsciences@tudublin.ie 

Applications now Open - Apply Now

Closing date: December 1^st

Overview

The Certificate in Science in Pathological Dissection Practice is delivered in partnership with the School of Biological, Health and Sports Sciences and the Faculty of Pathology. This level 9 special purpose award course in pathological dissection had it first intake of Medical Scientists in January 2016 and is the first of its kind in Ireland. The course was developed in response to the National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 which recognises the need for the ‘extended roles for biomedical scientists in areas such as macroscopic dissection, to ensure optimal use of highly trained personnel’.

This Certificate in Science in Pathological Dissection Practice special purpose award is designed to develop skills, knowledge and competency to enable Medical Scientists to extend their scope of practice to pathological dissection. These special purpose awards are currently offered in the areas of the specialist tissues; Breast, Skin, Gastrointestinal Tract with/without Oncology and Gynaecological with Perinatal, Colposcopy or Gynaecological Oncology. Medical Scientists develop competency in pathological dissection of a specified tissue to enable their extended scope of practice in histopathology; encompassing tissue specimen description, dissection and analysis for diagnostic Histopathology. This expert training in dissection practice allows Medical Scientists to play an integral role in quality assured sampling for morphological, immunophenotyping and molecular cancer diagnostics. 

Course Content

Medical Scientists will undertake a substantial programme of integrated theory and practice-based pathological dissection training of their specified tissue. This competency based-training is captured through the completion of an Evidence-based Portfolio of practice incorporating a specified number, type and complexity of specimens of the specialist tissue. The Evidence-Based Portfolio documents the learning and reflection of pathological dissection practice, including a case study, cancer trends report (Skin module) and peer-learning. The assessment of the Medical Scientist pathological dissection competency of the specified tissue is undertaken by the Trainer Consultant Pathologist.

The course is of 12-month duration. Each Medical Scientist undertaking expert training of a specified tissue is required to attend 2 on-site tuition days at the start of the course. The first tuition day is delivered on-site in the Central Quad in Grangegorman, TU Dublin and the second in a designated Pathology Laboratory, depending on the specified tissue. A third on-site tuition day is held in the Central Quad TU Dublin mid-way through the practice-based course.

On completion of all components of histopathological dissection practice as documented in the Evidence-based Portfolio, Medical Scientists will undertake a final assessment of histopathological dissection competency by an independent Consultant Histopathologist who will be a specialist in the specified tissue.

Minimum Entry Requirements

The applicant must be eligible to practice as a Medical Scientist in Ireland and be registered with the Medical Scientist Registration Board of CORU. In addition, applicants must have a minimum of three years post-qualification experience working fulltime as a Medical Scientist in a Pathology Laboratory preferably accredited to ISO 15189 standard by the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB). 

Application Details  

• How to Apply: Contact biologicalsciences@tudublin.ie for information

Module Details

TU Code: TU5306
Level: NFQ Level 7
Fee: €950
Award: CPD Certificate
Duration: 10 Weeks, One day a week block release
Course type: Postgraduate
Mode of Study: Part time
Method of Delivery: Classroom
Location: Grangegorman
Contact: biologicalsciences@tudublin.ie

Overview

Effective decontamination of reusable medical devices is an essential component of infection control and is a required standard of patient care in all healthcare settings. This Level 7 CPD course will meet the education and training requirements of all healthcare professionals and industry specialists involved in the safe decontamination of medical devices. The course content is designed to provide students with expert training in the cleaning, disinfection and terminal sterilisation processes employed in the safe decontamination of re-usable medical devices and medical instrumentation.  To support this practice-based tuition, the course  includes key concepts in the microbiological principles that underlie microbial transmission, device-related infection and infection control in the healthcare environment. The standards of practice and validation procedures required to comply with current legislation and quality system standards in safe decontamination are also addressed.

Learning Outcomes

A guiding philosophy in the design of this CPD course is to integrate tuition in the theory and practice of medical device decontamination. Lectures in the principles and processes of medical device decontamination will be supported by practice based-tuition in our state-of-the-art Wassenburg Medical, MDD Training Hub, custom designed to reflect the working practice of a functional sterilisation unit and offer students a real-life learning experience. Microbiology lectures and laboratory sessions in microbial growth, control, transmission and monitoring in device-associated infection will be delivered in a timeline that underpins teaching in the decontamination programme.

Examinations

The assessment strategy is designed to evaluate both theory and practice-based skills and to enhance the development of transferrable communication skills.  Assessment is comprised of 100% continuous assessment, conducted during the delivery of the module. The assessment is comprised of two elements, a problem-based assignment where the student will be required to conduct and compile a workplace audit and a combined practical skills/theory assessment with validation tasks in medical device decontamination and short note questions decontamination practice and microbiology.

Application Details  

• How to Apply: Applications now open - Apply Now
• Closing Date:
  • 20^th August for Specialised micro-credential modules
  • 18^th December for Fundamental micro-credential modules

Module Details

TU Code: TU5061
Level: NFQ Level 8
Fee: €450
Award: Certificate in Science
Credits: 5 credits
Duration: 5 or 10 credits
Course Type: Professional Development
Mode of Study: Part-Time
Method of Delivery: In-person
Assessment: Continuous Assessments and Written Exam
Location: Central Quad, Grangegorman Campus
Contact: biologicalsciences@TUDublin.ie 

Overview

Our Level 8 Medical Science In-Practice micro-credentials are short, flexible courses that span the theory and practice of our fundamental and specialised CORU-approved BSc Medical Science modules in Cellular pathology, Clinical Biochemistry, Haematology, Immunology, Medical Microbiology and Blood Transfusion. 

Fundamental micro-credential modules will allow in-practice learners to update in knowledge and technical skills aligned to meet the standards of proficiency for Medical Science. Specialised micro-credential modules will upskill across the range of disciplines with a progressive curriculum that reflects the dynamic nature of Medical Science and laboratory diagnostics. This customised study pathway will support professional development and career progression. Successful learners are awarded a TU Dublin Certificate of Science.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Prior Learning in a related area.

Course Content

Medical Microbiology

Discipline	Level	Module Code	Delivery	Module is designed to
Medical Microbiology	Fundamental	BIOL 2210 (5 ECTS)	Jan-May	Review the prevalence, pathogenicity and clinical significance of common pathogens and explore conventional microbial diagnostics for bacterial isolation, identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Specialised Topics in Medical Microbiology	Specialised	BIOL 4016 (10 ECTS)	Sep-Dec	Evaluate the role of infectious agents in human disease and the application of conventional and molecular diagnostic methods in the detection, monitoring and management of infection. Examine antimicrobial mechanisms of action and resistance, and apply best practice in antimicrobial stewardship, surveillance, infection prevention and control, and outbreak investigation.
Haematology	Fundamental	BIOL 2209 (5 ECTS)	Jan-May	Introduce key concepts of general haematology in both normal and diseased states and review the pathophysiology and laboratory diagnosis of a variety of red cell, white cell and haemostatic disorders.
Specialised topics in Haematology	Specialised	BIOL 4017 (10 ECTS)	Sep-Dec	Explore advanced haematological diagnostics and the investigation and management of bleeding disorders, thrombotic disease, haematological malignancies and other complex haematological conditions. Evaluate the application of molecular and cytogenetic technologies in diagnosis, disease monitoring and personalised treatment selection, including emerging targeted and cellular therapies. Develop advanced skills in the interpretation of laboratory data through case-based investigation and evidence-informed practice to support clinical decision-making in laboratory medicine.
Immunology	Fundamental	BIOL 2502 (5 ECTS)	Sept-Dec	Provide an understanding of the structure and function of key molecules in the activation of the immune response including Toll-like receptors, adhesion molecules, complement, MHC molecules and antibodies.
Specialised Topics in Immunology	Specialised	BIOL 4015 (10 ECTS)	Sep-Dec	Explore the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases, immunodeficient states, allergic diseases and HIV infection. Evaluate the immunological basis of transplant rejection and the role of laboratory investigation and examine the mechanisms and clinical application of immunotherapeutics and immunosuppressive therapies in transplantation, autoimmunity, allergy and cancer.
Blood Transfusion	Fundamental	BIOL 2211 (5 ECTS)	Jan-May	Investigate the principles and practice of blood transfusion for the provision of safe, blood-derived products. The serological, biochemical and genetic considerations of the human blood groups are also reviewed.
Specialised Topics in Blood Transfusion	Specialised	BIOL 4012 (10 ECTS)	Sep-Dec	Evaluate the clinical significance of major blood group systems and the principles of transfusion serology in pre-transfusion testing. Examine the safe acquisition, processing, storage, distribution and clinical use of blood and blood products, and apply quality systems, haemovigilance and legislative requirements to the prevention and management of transfusion-related adverse events.
Cellular Pathology	Fundamental	BIOL 2208 (5 ECTS)	Jan-May	Review the principles and tissue-based investigations and analysis of disease and cancer screening in current practice and how they impact on Cellular Pathology and Clinical Cytology laboratories.
Specialised Topics in Cellular Pathology	Specialised	BIOL 4014 (10 ECTS)	Sep-Dec	Evaluate the application of histological, cytological, immunophenotypic and molecular methods in the investigation of clinical disease. Explore the pathogenesis and diagnosis of cancer through biomarker analysis and cancer screening strategies, and examine quality systems, emerging technologies and theranostic approaches in Cellular Pathology practice.
Clinical Biochemistry	Fundamental	BIOL 2207 (5 ECTS)	Jan-May	Introduce learners to the biochemical changes in disease and the principle and practice of clinical chemistry laboratory investigation and its relevance to clinical diagnostics.
Specialised Topics in Clinical Biochemistry	Specialised	BIOL 4013 (10 ECTS)	Sep-Dec	Examine best practice in Clinical Biochemistry and the application of biochemical investigations in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease. Evaluate the role of laboratory quality systems, specialist analytical techniques and emerging technologies, and appraise the contribution of biochemical data to evidence-based clinical decision-making and the investigation of complex and multifactorial diseases.

Application Details  

• How to Apply: Applications now open - Apply Now
• Closing Date:
  23^rd September for Specialist Discipline modules
  22^nd August for Management modules
  16^th December for Research Skills module
  20^th January for Molecular Diagnostics and Applied Bioinformatics
  16^th December for Advances in Near-Patient Testing                           

Module Details

TU Code: TU5062
Level: NFQ Level 9
Fee: €480 (5 ECTS), €810 (10 ECTS)
Award: Certificate in Science
Credits: 5 or 10 ECTS
Duration: Differs per module, please inquire
Course type: Professional Development
Mode of Study: Part-Time
Method of Delivery: Blended (online and in-person)
Schedule: Differs per module, please inquire
Assessment: Continuous Assessments, Written Exam (for specialist discipline modules)
Location: Central Quad, Grangegorman Campus
Contact: biologicalsciences@tudublin.ie

Overview

Successful learners are awarded a TU Dublin CPD Certificate.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Prior learning in a related area.

Course Content

Cellular Pathology	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Advances in Cellular Pathology BIOL 9231	Nov	Provides detailed knowledge of current practice and future trends in Cellular Pathology. Recent developments in the National Cancer Strategy, Cancer Screening programmes, and novel diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic cancer biomarkers will be reviewed.

Clinical Chemistry	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Advances in Clinical Chemistry BIOL 9228	Nov	Facilitates the development of an advanced knowledge based in clinical biochemistry and the ability to use that knowledge base to address practice-based challenges. Emphasis will be placed on the clinical application of knowledge in the laboratory to address challenges relevant to contemporary laboratory practice.

Clinical Immunology	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Advances in Clinical Immunology BIOL 9225	Nov	Provides students with advanced knowledge and practice of clinical immunology with a particular focus on autoimmunity, allergy, and primary/secondary immunodeficiency. Students will explore current state of the art methods for the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of these diseases relevant to clinical laboratory practice.

Haematology	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Advances in Haematology BIOL 9226	Nov	Clinical presentation and pathological mechanisms which underpin acquired and congenital diseases such as bleeding disorders, thrombophilia, benign and malignant conditions will be reviewed. Current and developing diagnostic, prognostic and monitoring approaches used within the clinical haematology laboratory will be evaluated and aligned with best practice guidelines.

Medical Microbiology	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Advances in Medical Microbiology BIOL 9242	Nov	The module will explore pathogenic disease models, transmission and epidemiological surveillance of clinically significant infection, both in the healthcare environment and the community setting. The module will also review the emergence, dissemination and burden of multidrug resistance in priority pathogens, national health polices in the control of antimicrobial resistance, and the chase and race of antibiotic consumption and development.

Transfusion  Science	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Advances in Transfusion and Transplantation Science BIOL 9233	Nov	Provides an advanced state-of-the-art overview of current theoretical and applied transfusion science practices, with emphasis on emerging clinical concerns and new technical approaches. The purpose of this module is to update students on current best practice in blood transfusion and transplantation science in Ireland. It will deepen knowledge in blood group systems and transfusion issues in different patient cohorts. It will also review the medical uses of red cells and other blood products. It will provide a review of the theory and practice of tissue banking and organ transplantation. The current best-practice in relation to organ transplantation and tissue banking from a laboratory perspective will be covered.

Med Science Management	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Applied Medical Laboratory Management BIOL 9009	Sept	Provides an overview of the operational processes required in the delivery of a patient centred service that optimizes laboratory resources and supports a quality management system. Students will be introduced to core concepts of quality management, demand management and information management used in the delivery of a contemporary clinical diagnostic service.
	Laboratory Leadership and Change Management BIOL 9011	Sept	Introduces the student to the core concepts of laboratory leadership and change management to enable them to apply this knowledge in the modern-day clinical laboratory. Students will be introduced to leadership and communication styles, personnel management, and change management processes. Students will also develop an awareness of the ethical and legal responsibilities of the laboratory manager.

Research Skills	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Research Methods and Project Planning BIOL 9223	Feb	Provides students with a comprehensive Research Toolkit which will enable them to carry out research in the broad field of Biomedical Science. Spanning literature exploration, hypothesis development, study design, and data analysis, the course will provide students with competency in a range of research method and project planning skills. Students master the art of formulating robust hypotheses, designing ethically sound experiments, and implementing good research practices. The module also covers data management and analysis, laboratory record-keeping, and effective communication strategies.

Diagnostic  Technology	Micro-credential	Delivery	Module is designed to:
	Molecular Diagnostics and Applied Bioinformatics BIOL 9241	Mar	Provides an insight into the bioinformatics tools available for the acquisition and analysis of DNA, RNA and protein sequences and to evaluate the use of these tools in the biomedical and biotechnology arenas. Students will learn the skills required to access nucleic acid sequences and to design tests for the detection of mutations / alterations in those sequences. Students will leverage online web browsers, including Galaxy, as powerful tools for the analysis of genetic sequences and variant calling. Through hands-on activities, participants will develop proficiency in utilizing these clinically relevant web-based platforms.
	Current Trends in Near Patient Testing BIOL 9224	April	Provides a review of the technological principles and clinical applications of near patient testing (NPT) in a range of settings. Students will explore the challenges of translating innovative technology in the complex and regulated environment of healthcare, and the leading role that NPT plays in transforming healthcare delivery.