Course Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical & Molecular Diagnostics
Biomedical Science is the science related to medical conditions – their causes, diagnosis and treatment. Molecular diagnostics is the use and development of novel technologies to enable faster and more personalised diagnosis, often using DNA-based approaches.
A unique feature of the course is the way diagnostic and analytical sciences are integrated with bioproduct design and development. It also includes modules in transferable skills such as basic programming and bioinformatics.
Year 1 covers the core sciences and introduces you to Biomedical Science and Molecular Diagnostics. In Year 2, you’ll further study Biochemistry and Cell and Molecular Biology, together with modules in Biomedical Science disciplines as well as Bioinformatics and Biostatistics modules.
Work Placement
In Years 3 and 4, semester-long work placements and research projects provide an invaluable opportunity for you to gain real-life skills and experience, and to apply academic knowledge in a real-world setting.
In Year 3, you will undertake a 14-week professional work placement in an industry or research organisation, and also study Biosensor and Bioproduct Development, an integrated topic supported by modules in genetic engineering, pharmacology and toxicology and data analytics.
In the final year, you’ll study core modules in Molecular Diagnostic as applied to Microbiology, Oncology (Cancer) and Genetics, and in Near Patient Diagnostics, and will prepare for your future career with bio entrepreneurship and bioindustry skills.
Finally, in your final year, you’ll undertake a 12-week research project, based in TU Dublin, in industry laboratories/organisations, or national and international research centres (under the Erasmus/Socrates scheme).
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 |
English OR Irish |
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O4/H7 |
O6/H7 |
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Other Grade Requirements |
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| At least H4 in one of: Physics, Chemistry, Physics and Chemistry, or Biology. | |
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Additional Requirements: |
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QQI/FET Requirements
| QQI/FET Award Required | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|
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5 distinctions which must include a distinction in a Maths module 5N1833 or leaving cert Maths grade of 04/H7. |
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.
Garda Vetting
Garda Vetting required through TU Dublin see www.tudublin.ie/gardavetting
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
Molecular diagnostics is the fastest-growing area of the in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) industry sector. You’ll be uniquely placed to tap into this rapidly growing market in commercial areas such as the in-vitro diagnostic industry.
- Researcher
- In Vitro Technician
Note: The course will not qualify you for membership of the Academy of Clinical Science and Laboratory Medicine (ACSLM) Ireland, which is required for practice as a medical scientist in Ireland.
Semester 1
- Cellular Dynamics - Biochemical Processes [Mandatory]
- Infection and Immunity [Mandatory]
- Introduction to Biomedical Science [Mandatory]
- Introduction to Chemistry [Mandatory]
- Introduction to Histology, Anatomy and Physiology [Mandatory]
- Maths & Stats for Health Sciences [Mandatory]
- Physics for Health Science [Mandatory]
- Professional and Scientific Skills [Mandatory]
Semester 2
Semester 1
- Bioinformatics for Biomedical Sciences [Mandatory]
- Biological Basis of Disease [Mandatory]
- Cell and Molecular Biology [Mandatory]
- Biochemistry of Metabolism [Mandatory]
- Molecular Immunology [Mandatory]
- Control and Integrative Physiology [Mandatory]
- Professional Skills for Biomedical and Molecular Diagnostics [Mandatory]
- Professional Skills for Biomedical and Molecular Diagnostics [Mandatory]
Semester 2
- Biological Basis of Disease [Mandatory]
- Introduction to Programming for Biology [Mandatory]
- Clinical Chemistry [Mandatory]
- Cellular Pathology and Clinical Cytology [Mandatory]
- Haematology [Mandatory]
- Medical Microbiology [Mandatory]
- Professional Skills for Biomedical and Molecular Diagnostics [Mandatory]
- Professional Skills for Biomedical and Molecular Diagnostics [Mandatory]
Semester 1
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis [Mandatory]
- Biosensor & Bioproduct Development [Mandatory]
- Professional Placement [Mandatory]
- Gene Therapy and Genetic Engineering [Mandatory]
- Molecular Immunology 2 [Mandatory]
- Pharmacology [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.
A big advantage of TU866 was the availability of student placements and research projects. A wide range of placements gave me an insight to the workings of a scientific company and allowed me to determine my field, as well as building up my CV. Although the course was specific to diagnostics, the detail allowed for great knowledge in many areas allowing for a range of opportunities as a graduate. Overall, I found that the course encouraged hard work and the emphasis on laboratory skills allowed for a smooth transition into a working environment”“I always had an interest in molecular biology, especially DNA and genetics and found this course to be right up my street. I really enjoyed the variety of the modules studied throughout the four years which allowed me to find which areas I liked and wanted to pursue further. This is a very practical course and emphasizes practical skills in the lab which are a great benefit when applying for laboratory-based jobs. These elements combined have opened many doors for different opportunities in my career. Overall, I enjoyed the TU866 course and would recommend it if you have an interest in molecular biology and working in a laboratory setting.
A tremendous asset to our company. This student demonstrated excellent teamwork and technical skills which makes them highly employableExcellent ability to take direction and follow through with analysis. Working through initial concepts to establishing objectives, developing methods, and reporting and justifying the resulting data. A pleasure to have as part of our teamExcellent bioinformatic and data analysis skills and a solid foundation in basic and applied biomedical science and biosensor development.
On graduation, you may be accepted on a wide range of taught master’s (MSc) courses or engage in research for an MPhil or PhD.