Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Program Overview

The Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences program at DCU immerses students in the world of chemistry, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field and its applications. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory experience, students develop skills for careers in the pharmaceutical, chemical, and related industries. The program also prepares students for postgraduate studies and teaching careers.

Program Outline

Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences | DC162

Degree Overview:

This four-year undergraduate program immerses students in the fascinating world of chemistry, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the field and its applications. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience, equipping students with the skills and expertise needed to succeed in the workforce or pursue postgraduate studies.

Key Objectives:

• Develop a fundamental understanding of organic, inorganic, physical, medicinal, and analytical chemistry.
• Hone practical lab skills and apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems.
• Nurture creativity, innovation, and presentation skills.
• Prepare students for diverse career opportunities in the pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical, chemical/materials, specialty chemical, food, and government laboratories.
• Equip graduates for potential roles such as process development, synthetic chemistry, formulation, regulatory affairs, quality control/assurance, analytical method development, and medicinal chemistry.
• Provide a strong foundation for further study in masters or doctoral programs.

Outline:

• Students engage in a variety of modules, including:
• Chemistry, Physics, and Biology Laboratories
• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Interdisciplinary Science
• Physics
• Biomolecules and Metabolism
• Kinetics and Thermodynamics
• Spectroscopy and Physical Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Bio-organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• Visualization and Validation of Laboratory Data
• Organic / Physical / Inorganic Chemistry Laboratories
• Spectroscopic Workshop
• Separation Techniques
• Computational and Inorganic Chemistry
• Synthesis and Analysis of Pharmaceuticals (Laboratory)
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Formulation
• Data Analysis and Regulation
• Organometallics and Polymer Chemistry
• Advanced Spectroscopy
• Advanced Topics in Organic Chemistry
• Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
• Bioinspired Synthesis
• Drug Design Workshop
• Literature Survey
• Research Project
• Students conduct a four- to six-month INTRA work placement in industry or academic labs, gaining valuable experience and building contacts.
• The program emphasizes hands-on learning through extensive laboratory sessions.
• Students choose elective modules to tailor their studies to their specific interests.

Assessment:

• Coursework assignments
• Laboratory reports
• Exams
• Research project
• Presentations
• Work placement reports

Teaching:

• Experienced faculty with expertise in various subfields of chemistry
• Interactive lectures, discussions, and workshops
• State-of-the-art labs equipped with modern instrumentation
• Emphasis on collaborative learning and problem-solving
• Strong support system for students, including academic advisors and peer mentors

Careers:

• Graduates find employment opportunities in various sectors, including:
• Pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical
• Chemical/materials
• Specialty chemical
• Food
• Government laboratories
• Potential roles include:
• Process development chemist
• Development chemist
• Analytical chemist
• Research chemist/scientist
• Program also prepares students for teaching careers (recognized by the Teaching Council)
• Graduates can pursue postgraduate studies in chemistry or related fields.

Other:

• Students have access to a variety of resources, including modern libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities.
• DCU boasts a strong reputation for graduate employability.
• The program actively promotes research opportunities and encourages students to participate in research projects.
• The program fosters a vibrant and supportive learning environment.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Student Contribution: €3,043 per annum
• EU Status Fee: €6,679 per annum
• Non EU Fee: €16,000 per annum