Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biological Sciences (Common Entry), Munster Technological University

Cork, Ulster

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This is a two-year programme designed for students interested in biological sciences but unsure of their specific discipline. It offers a chance to explore three areas—Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nutrition and Health Science, and Agri-Biosciences—through diverse modules, interactions with lecturers, and industrial site visits. Successful students can progress to the third year of any of these honours degrees, focusing on their chosen specialization. The course covers core science subjects in the first year and introduces modules related to food's role in health, biological medicines, microbiology, physiology, and biotechnology in the agri-food sector. Practical laboratory procedures are also part of the curriculum, providing students with hands-on experience.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students who want to explore multiple areas within biological sciences before committing to a specialization. Its combination of practical lab work, interaction with industry, and the opportunity to study different disciplines makes it a valuable choice. It provides a clear pathway for career advancement in high-demand sectors like pharmaceuticals, nutrition, and agri-biosciences, supported by industry-relevant modules and hands-on experience.

Specialisation

After completing the initial two-year common entry, students can move into specialized honours programmes in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nutrition and Health Science, or Agri-Biosciences. Each pathway focuses on different aspects of biological sciences, such as developing medicines, applying nutrition science in industry, or supporting agricultural and food technologies. This structure allows students to make an informed decision about their future focus, guided by practical exposure and coursework.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

12.19L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to score 442 points in 2024 and meet the minimum entry requirements, which include passing six subjects in the Leaving Certificate—H5 in two subjects and O6/H7 in four others—with Mathematics and either English or Irish included. Non-EU international students should refer to specific entry criteria provided by the university.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

110

Career prospects

Graduates from the Agri-Biosciences track can pursue roles such as research scientist, laboratory technician, and quality control analyst, while those in Nutrition and Health Science can work in food industry research, product development, food safety, or nutrition communication. Students opting for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology can find careers in quality control, microbiology, bio-assay, or R&D in pharmaceuticals and biotech companies.

FAQs

Am I guaranteed my choice of study at the end of year 2?

Yes. Successful completion of the common entry programme guarantees entry into the third year of your chosen honours degree.

Do I need to have studied chemistry at Leaving Certificate level?

No. The course includes modules on Biological Chemistry designed for students without a chemistry background, and support is available through the university’s tutorial services.