Course Summary
Ireland has a strong reputation as a Centre of Excellence for biopharmaceutical production. All of the top 10 global pharmaceutical companies have a presence in Ireland and the sector as a whole employs over 30,000 people and contributes €54 billion in exports. There has been significant, sustained investment in recent years and this is set to continue due to the benefits which companies see in our highly skilled workforce, proven track record and the supportive ecosystem.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Application Details
How to apply?
The following entry routes are available:
PC Manufacturing of Cell & Gene Therapies & Vaccines JanPT (T372)
Duration 6 Months
Attend Part Time
Deadline Rolling*
* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised
NEXT INTAKE: 2024/2025 January.
Fees
EU fee per year - € 3500
nonEU fee per year - € 7000
***Fees are subject to change
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
The Professional Certificate is suitable for Science and Engineering graduates currently working in the biopharmaceutical industry or looking to move into the sector, who wish to expand their skill set to take advantage of the growth in the vaccine, and cell and gene therapies space. The number of companies active in this area is currently growing with Pfizer, Takeda, WuXi, MeiraGTx, VLE, Avectas, Onk and Orbsen Therapeutics leading the way.
Further Study
The credits gained can be used toward further postgraduate qualifications offered by UCD should participants wish to pursue a higher qualification e.g. Graduate Certificate (30 credits) / Graduate Diploma (60 credits)/ MEngSc in Biopharmaceutical Engineering (90 credits).
Duration
The modules will be delivered in a hybrid format with the option to attend in-person lectures on the UCD campus or to study remotely. Lectures will take place on Friday evenings from 2pm - 6pm over the Spring trimester (12 weeks, January - May).