Reasons to choose this course
- The Pharmaceutical Industry is one of the biggest industries in Ireland and Cosmetics is an important part of this manufacturing sector
- The Pharmaceutical Industry contributes over 50% of Ireland’s overall economic output
- This course is unique in Ireland in terms of its design and content
- The course is a laboratory science course in nature and does not prepare you for a career as a beautician
What is the Higher Certificate in Science in Pharmaceutical Analysis with Cosmetic Science about?
The pharmaceutical industry is hugely important in Ireland. Today this industry is worth more than €44 billion a year to the Irish economy.
On this two year Higher Certificate programme you will learn a range of laboratory skills that are used in analytical science and that have applications in industry. The skills you learn will be of value to a broad range of industries including the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, biotechnology, medical and environmental sectors. This course provides the fundamental education that you can build on through further education or employment.
How is the course delivered?
This course is delivered in four semesters over two years. Delivery is divided between lectures and laboratory practicals. Most of the topics in the class room are linked to laboratory activities that allow you to relate theory and practical. The focus is on laboratory skills and competence in laboratory techniques and instrumentation. The programme is comprised of generic science modules, pharmaceutical modules and others modules that are related specifically to cosmetic biology, microbiology, formulation and manufacture.
What facilities are available?
Your course is delivered in lecture rooms and a number of science laboratories. These laboratories are equipped with modern, relevant analytical instrumentation and all the equipment necessary to develop the skills essential for a career in laboratory sciences.
What are my career opportunities?
16 of the world's top 20 pharmaceutical companies are located in Ireland and the South of Ireland is home to many of these. The sector employs about 25,000 people, of whom 50% have third level qualifications. Employment prospects for graduates in pharmaceutical analysis are good. With a Higher Certificate you are qualified to work in a science laboratory or a manufacturing environment. The Higher Certificate is generally used by graduates as a platform on which to build a science career. You may be interested in starting a career in laboratory science by taking this short two year programme.