Applied Science – Laboratory Techniques
Course Description
Note: Course shadowing as part of work experience is available for this course.
Ireland’s pharmaceutical industry produces a wide range of products and services, from research and development of new medicines to the manufacturing and marketing of new medicines for humans and animals. Personnel with scientific knowledge and laboratory analytical skills are essential for this industry sector.
Approximately 120 overseas companies have plants in Ireland including 9 of the 10 largest pharmaceutical companies in the world with many of these companies located in the Munster region.
The main focus of this course will be to enhance your scientific knowledge and laboratory skills in a range of applied science fields. This one-year full time course has assisted the majority of our past graduates in progressing to third level courses in Universities and IT’s. It is also suitable for individuals who wish to enhance their chances of employment in the pharmaceutical industry.
QQI Level 5
Laboratory Techniques: 5M3807
This is a full time one year course.
Leaving Certificate or equivalent, ideally a minimum of a pass in Mathematics at Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate. For mature applicants experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications. Suitable candidates who show aptitude for the course will be selected by interview.
The following subjects may be offered:
- Biology
5N2746
Designed to develop an understanding of biology and an ability to perform practical tasks in biology. - Food Chemistry
5N2748
Designed to develop an understanding of basic and analytical chemistry and the fundamentals of food chemistry. - Chemistry
5N2747
Designed to develop an understanding of the industrial and practical applications of chemistry. - Food Processing
5N5245
Describes the processes used in the food industry to produce selected food products and explains the scientific principles underpinning these processes. - Laboratory Skills
5N2751
Outlines basic laboratory techniques and safety measures important in an analytical laboratory. - Mathematics
5N1833
Applies a broad range of mathematical skills and tools to a wide variety of contexts, with theoretical understanding. - Microbiology
5N0737
Outlines the fundamentals of microbiology and basic microbiological skills used in a laboratory setting. - Nutrition
5N2006
The study of the nutritional composition of food and the effects of food and nutrition on an individual’s health and personal well being. - Communications
5N0690
Equips students for presentations, report writing and interviews. - Work Experience
5N1356
The purpose of this subject is to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to participate in the workplace for a limited time, carrying out work-related tasks independently while under general direction.
The pharmaceutical industry is one of Ireland’s largest employers and have a large potential for employment. Job opportunities for students who complete this course include: Laboratory assistants, Operators pharmaceutical industries.
390 CAO points can be earned by students on successful completion of this course.
For full details on progression opportunities see these links:
Cork Colleges Progression Scheme
QQI Requirements
UCC:
- Biological and Chemical Sciences (CK402)
- Nutritional Science (CK504)
- Chemical Sciences (CK406)
CIT:
- Nutrition and Health Science (CR333)
- Applied Biosciences (CR006)
- Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry (CR007)
- Science Course (CR300)
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (CR325)
- Analytical Chemistry with QA (CR340)
Applied Science
Microscope
Lab Techniques