BSc in Pharmaceutical Scienc (Drug Dev & Analysis)

BSc in Pharmaceutical Science (Drug Development & Analysis)

Those working in drug development and pharmaceutical analysis seek answers to the following questions:

• Is the identity of the API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) in the formulated product correct?
• Is the correct quantity of API present?
• How might I maximise the yield from the synthetic route?
• Is the product stable and what expiry date should it have?
• Is each of the ingredients compatible?
• At what rate will the API be released from its formulation so its can be absorbed from the body?
• What analytical techniques must I use to answer the above questions?

Even casual observers will be aware of the critical role that the Irish pharmaceutical sector plays in contributing to the exemplary success of Ireland’s manufacturing exports. Many may have knowledge of the courses available in universities and institutes which provide graduates to the industry. Athlone Institute of Technology currently offers a unique four year ab inito programme in pharmaceutical sciences which imparts graduates with relevant skills at the molecular and product level. This Level 7 offering in Drug Development & Analysis is now offered to holders of relevant Level 6 awards or to graduates of other science courses who wish to acquire key skills which will enable them to participate in and contribute to this success story.

On this degree, you will be instructed by a dedicated and integrated team of academic staff possessing a diverse and relevant range of teaching experience and research interests.

The twelve modules build on more than four decades of life sciences and chemical undergraduate and postgraduate course delivery and research. Theory is always supported by practice and modules provide knowledge and ‘hands-on’ experience of Pharmaceutical Synthesis, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Analysis, and Spectroscopy & Chromatography. We regularly consult with industry to maintain the currency of our course provision and this input is reflected in our offering of Professional & Transferable Skills. This seeks to ensure that graduates are sufficiently aware and professional in all activities and thus fulfil their role and potential in the workplace.

Graduates from our programme may expect to find rewarding careers and well remunerated positions in the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals sector, whether in an API/ biologic drugs plant or in a finished drug product manufacturing facility. Previous graduates have also obtained desirable roles in research, whether industrial or leading to a higher degree, in colleges or the wider public service such as forensics and environmental monitoring. Others are currently employed in agriculture, food, polymers and beverage concerns. Many graduates will remain to study for the AIT Level 8 offering in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Discovery & Development).

Minimum Entry Requirements

Higher Certificate in Science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

Modules

Metals in Medicine, Syhthetic Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Separations, Quality Assurance & GMP, Environmental Science, Dosage Form Design, Pharmaceutical Spectroscopy, Pharmaceutical Synthesis, Pharmaceutical Materials, Professional & Transferrable Skills for Pharmaceutical Scientists and Pharmaceutical Statistics.

Progression

Many graduates will remain to study for the AIT Level 8 offering in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Discovery & Development). 

Professional Recognition

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities for holders of this degree are excellent, with projected growth throughout this sector for the foreseeable future. You can expect to find employment in the pharmaceutical, biomedical, chemical and food industries. Opportunities also exist in research institutes, quality control and environmental protection.

Additional Information