Biomedical & Molecular DiagnosticsDiagnóisic Bhithleighis ┐Mhóilíneach

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

Mature Applicants

Applications from mature students (23+) are welcome. Further details at www.tudublin.ie/mature

Additional Requirements

TU Dublin students must undergo Garda Vetting. They must complete the required documentation, including a full list of all previous addresses, in order for clearance checks to be made. Currently, Irish addresses are vetted by the Garda Vetting Bureau at no cost to the student.

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

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.

Advanced Entry was not offered to this course in 2024. We are currently closed for Advanced Entry Applications. The courses that will be open for advanced entry will be listed on the CAO website in January 2025. For information on how to make an Advanced Entry application, please visit our CAO Hub.

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.

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.