DNA and Forensic AnalysisDNA agus Anailís Fhóiréinseach

The application of scientific knowledge and techniques is of growing significance in legal cases in the real world as well as in fiction, but there is also an increasing demand in many industries for the skills of an analyst in biotechnology and forensics, so this course may lead you to an exciting career.

Forensic science is the application of scientific knowledge and techniques in support of the legal process. The application of DNA technologies in forensics, and a wide range of industries and the state laboratories, has increased hugely.

This course will provide you with a broad knowledge and understanding of the core biological and chemical sciences. You’ll develop practical and problem-solving skills in the laboratory in pharmaceutical, biological and chemical & forensic analysis, as well as both theoretical understanding and practical skills in DNA fingerprinting technology. You’ll acquire the multi-disciplinary knowledge, skills and competencies to be able to work effectively as an analyst in biotechnology, healthcare, chemical, pharmaceutical and forensic laboratories.

The biotechnology, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries continue to expand, but expert reports suggest a shortfall in the number of suitable graduates. The biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries are particularly strong in Ireland at present. Graduates will be well placed to work in these industries.

Professional Accreditation

This course is recognised by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Leaving Certificate Requirements

QQI/FET Requirements

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 6.0 overall (or equivalent).

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

• Forensics
• Biotechnology
• Biopharma
• Healthcare

Graduate Job Titles:

• Forensic Analyst
• Analyst
• Quality Controller
• Quality Assurance
• Process Development
• Regulatory Compliance Officer

My Qualification: What Next?

For more details about the career opportunities available after this course, please refer to our career-focussed guide: “My Qualification: What Next?”

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 2026 are now open and will close in June 2026.

Advanced entry applications are currently not accepted to this course.

I loved the on-campus crime scene aspect to the course. Really enjoyed the mock trial in the court room you experience. This showed us all aspects of what you could encounter in Forensic Analysis.

On graduation, you may continue to postgraduate study at TU Dublin or elsewhere.