Course Summary
This modular course, awarding a Level 9 certificate, aims to introduce learners to the quality systems and the regulatory framework that assures the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicinal products in the pharmaceutical industry.
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
1. A Level 8 Honours Degree, 2.2H or higher, in Pharmacy, Science, Business or equivalent discipline.
2. A level 8 Honours Degree, 2.2H or Higher, in a non-business related discipline, with the following conditions:
- Candidates with significant business/management experience may apply through our APEL route, in line with college policy.
- Candidates who have no management experience will be assessed as to their prior learning. Where appropriate, candidates will be directed to take an additional module during semester one: Finance for Non-Financial Managers.
3. A level 8 Honours Degree, 2.2H or higher, in a business related non-STEM discipline, with the following conditions:
- Candidates with significant pharmaceutical experience may apply through our APEL route, in line with college policy.
- Candidates who have no pharmaceutical experience but who hold a business-related degree will be assessed as to their prior learning. Where appropriate, candidates will be directed to take an additional module during semester one: Introduction to Pharmaceutical Industry. This module is intended to prepare learners from general business backgrounds for the pharmaceutical learning outcomes during this MSc programme.
Applicants over the age of 23 may apply on the basis of previous work experience and a demonstration of commitment to further studies (Applicants under the age of 23 are required to meet the minimum entry requirements).
Each candidate’s application will be considered individually in accordance with the College’s QQI approved quality assurance procedures.
Candidates holding relevant alternative qualifications and those with related experiential learning will be considered under the College’s RPL policy.
English Language
All learners are also expected to be proficient in the use of the English language. Where a candidate’s mother tongue is not English, he/she will be required to provide proof of proficiency in the English language through satisfactory performance on an internationally recognised test (e.g. TOEFL 575, IELTS 6.5 or other similar English language qualifications).
Griffith College is accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency.
Application Details
How To Apply
Students who wish to apply for this course may apply directly to Griffith College. They should have obtained a degree at least a level 8 honours degree in pharmacy, science, business or related discipline.
When our Admissions team receive your application they will be in contact with you directly.
Intake Dates:
We run two intakes for this course, commencing as follows:
Autumn: September*
Spring: February*
*subject to sufficient numbers.
Fees
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.
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.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Career Progression
• MSc in Pharmaceutical Business Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Business Management
The skillset needed to work in a modern biopharma plant is evolving with the growing importance of biologics products.
These skills are highlighted in Ireland’s National Skills Strategy 2025, where regulatory compliance and pharma co-vigilance roles are in demand by the industry.
Progression from this programme could include (depending on prior experience):
• Clinical - Regulatory Associate
• CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) Regulatory Associate
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist