Course Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Analytical Chemistry (Environmental Forensic and Pharmaceutical)
An analytical chemist is trained to use modern analytical techniques and instruments to develop strategies to detect, identify and quantify substances such as the pollutants in air and water, illegal substances in suspicious powders and the active pharmaceutical ingredients in medicinal products.
This course, which includes rigorous scientific training and a six-month work placement, will make you work-ready.
To be an analytical chemist, you need an interest in science and a curious mind, and to enjoy solving problems. An eye for detail is also important.
The course has a substantial practical component, which supports the development of key laboratory skills and training in modern analytical instrumentation.
Laboratory practicals, case studies and workshops allow you to develop analytical thinking, teamwork, IT and science communication skills.
In Year 1, you’ll be introduced to forensic, pharmaceutical and environmental chemistry. All science subjects are taught on the basis that you may not have studied them at Leaving Certificate.
Year 2 includes the core chemistry topics and specialised modules in analytical, forensic and environmental chemistry. In the final two years, the emphasis is on analytical chemistry and environmental, forensic and pharmaceutical applications. The six-month work placement in Year 3 and the year 4 research project will benefit you greatly. Thus, graduates are work-ready problem-solvers with excellent laboratory skills.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Although most students undertake a work placement in Ireland, it is possible during the Year 3 placement to study in an industrial or academic environment abroad as part of the Erasmus programme.
Work Placement
The six month work placement in third year is a very valuable aspect of the course. As it has been in place for over 15 years, we have established strong networks with employers. We ensure that you are supported while you apply for and obtain your placement.
Professional Accreditation
The course is recognised internationally as it is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It is also recognised by the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland for graduate membership.
Equipment Requirements
Laboratory glasses, laboratory coat and spatula (details provided at induction).
Leaving Certificate Requirements
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Minimum Number of |
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|---|---|
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Subjects |
Higher |
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6 |
2 H5's |
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Minimum Grade in |
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Maths |
Eng OR Irish |
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O3/H7 |
O6/H7 |
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Other Grade Requirements At least a H4 in one of: Physics, Chemistry, Physics and Chemistry, Biology or Technology. |
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QQI/FET Requirements
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QQI/FET Award Required |
Additional Requirements |
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Level 5:
One of the following awards:
Level 6:
Full level 6 award in a relevant discipline
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Level 5:
Distinctions in 5 modules required, which must include one of the following:
And one of the following:
And one of the following:
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In addition to the QQI minimum entry requirements, QQI quotas and QQI points apply. The max QQI points awarded is 390. Further details at www.tudublin.ie/qqi
Mature Applicants
Applications from mature students (23+) are welcome. Further details at www.tudublin.ie/mature
English Language Requirements
If English is not your first language you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as detailed on our website. Applicants for this course should have a minimum IELTS (Academic Version) English Proficiency of 6 overall (or equivalent) with nothing less than 6 in each component.
Click on the link below to view an indicative timetable for this course. Timetables are subject to change and up to date timetables will be provided to students on commencement.
View Sample Timetable
- Environmental Chemist
- Forensic Analyst
- Quality Control Chemist
- Pharmaceutical Analyst
Graduate Employers:
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Henkel
- Irish Distillers
- Pfizer
- State Laboratory
Semester 1
- Career Development and IT [Mandatory]
- Cell Biology [Mandatory]
- Chemistry [Mandatory]
- Forensic, Environmental and Pharmaceutical Analysis [Mandatory]
- Introduction to Microbiology [Mandatory]
- Mathematics 1 [Mandatory]
- Physics II - Geometrical Optics, Properties if Waves, Sound & Physical Optics [Mandatory]
- Physics III – Thermal Physics, Electricity and Magnetism [Mandatory]
Semester 2
- Introduction to Microbiology [Mandatory]
- Career Development and IT [Mandatory]
- Forensic, Environmental and Pharmaceutical Analysis [Mandatory]
- Mathematics 2 [Mandatory]
- Physics I: Mechanics, Properties of matter and Modern Physics [Mandatory]
- Physics II - Geometrical Optics, Properties if Waves, Sound & Physical Optics [Mandatory]
Semester 1
- Statistics and Classical Analysis [Mandatory]
- Spectroscopy & Thermodynamics [Mandatory]
- Bond & Reactivity Inorganic Chemistry [Mandatory]
- Organic Chemistry and Spectroscopy [Mandatory]
- Introduction to Environmental Chemistry & Sustainability [Mandatory]
- Forensic Biology & Polymers [Mandatory]
Semester 2
Semester 1
- Inorganic Chemistry in Action [Mandatory]
- Carbonyl and Stereochemistry [Mandatory]
- Analytical Chemistry [Mandatory]
- Physical and Organic Spectroscopy [Mandatory]
- Forensic & Environmental Analysis [Mandatory]
- Placement (Part A) [Mandatory]
- Placement (Part B) [Mandatory]
- Kinetics, Thermodynamics & Electrochemistry [Mandatory]
Semester 2
Irish/EU Applicants
Applications from all Irish/EU citizens are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
Note: Applicants presenting with the Irish Leaving Certificate or a QQI FET award, regardless of nationality, should apply through the CAO.
The standard closing date to apply is February 1st. Late applications will close on May 1st. For restricted courses, the closing date is February 1st. Please see important dates on the CAO website. For a detailed guide on how to apply, please visit our CAO Hub.
International Students (Non-EU)
Applications from international students are welcome for this programme. If you meet any of the following criteria, applications should be made directly to TU Dublin via the “Apply Now – Non-EU” link on each programme webpage.
- You hold Non-EU Nationality, and you live in a Non-EU country.
- You hold EU Nationality, but you have not lived in an EU country for 3 of the last 5 years AND you have not attended 5 years primary/secondary education in an EU country.
- You require a Student Visa to study in Ireland
Note: Applicants presenting with the Irish Leaving Certificate or a QQI FET award, regardless of nationality, should apply through the CAO.
For full details on How to Apply, Visa & Immigration Information, Accommodation Information and International Fees, please visit our International Hub.
Application Dates for Non-EU Applicants
Applications for undergraduate courses commencing September 2025 are now closed.
Applications for undergraduate courses commencing in September 2026 will open in November 2025. Applications will close in June 2026.
Advanced entry applications are currently not accepted to this course.
I really enjoyed this course. Lots of laboratory work meant that I got to learn about equipment and methods that I now use in my job.
My interest lies in the application of analytical techniques to the investigation of evidence from crime scenes.
On graduation you may continue to postgraduate study at TU Dublin or in other higher education institutions. The course meets the requirements as an approved undergraduate degree for the Professional Master of Education (Post Primary) for those who want to teach chemistry and science in secondary schools.