Genetics and Cell Biology

Dublin City University

Ireland, Dublin

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Home/Ireland/Dublin /Dublin City University/Genetics and Cell Biology

Dublin City University

Ireland , Dublin

Key Facts

Program Level

Bachelor

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

DC168

Campuses

Main Site

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake Deadlines12-Jan-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 4 year(s)

Tuition Fee

EUR 16,900 / year

Next Intake 12-Jan-2026

Genetics and Cell Biology

About

Overview

Unprecedented advances in genetic diagnostics and therapeutics are saving lives around the world. By studying on this programme, you can come to understand the genetic basis for life and how this information can be used to investigate, diagnose and treat diseases.

Gaining an unmatched skill set

Not only will you get an excellent grounding in theoretical genetics and cell biology, but you’ll also gain practical laboratory skills, as well as skills in communications, critical thinking and problem-solving. Furthermore, you’ll gain skills in computational biology, which uses high-tech data analysis and modelling to help harness genetic and biological insights. That means you’ll gain a unique skill set that is highly sought after by employers.

You’ll learn in exciting and innovative ways, including active learning and a mix of pre-recorded, live on-line and face-to-face lectures. In third year, you’ll do a nine-month INTRA work placement, while in your final year, you’ll choose to take either the biopharmaceutical industry stream or the research stream.

As a graduate, you’ll be ready for a wide range of employment opportunities across medical therapeutics and diagnostics, the biopharmaceutical industry and healthcare device production.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Leaving Cert

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

Minimum of O3 or H6 in Mathematics and minimum of O3 or H5 in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemistry, Agricultural Science or Computer Science

GCE A Level

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply

GCE A Level D or GCE AS Level C or GCSE B Mathematics and GCE A Level D or GCE AS Level C or GCSE B in one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics with Chemistry or Agricultural Science

FET Level 5

Please visit our Admissions webpage for details on course requirements or how to apply to DCU.

Please visit our QQI FET webpage for details on DCU courses, open days, campus tours or school visits.

To apply to DCU, please visit www.cao.ie.

Mature Applicants

Mature entry is a competitive process. Applicants must demonstrate:

a genuine interest in the programme(s) they are applying for
academic experience and competency in their chosen field of study
an ability to engage and succeed on the programme

All applicants must complete a statement of interest to be considered for the mature application route.

For further guidance on the mature application process please see the CAO Website

Advanced Entry

Applicants that have completed at least one year of study at NFQ Level 6, 7 or 8 at another institution may apply to continue their studies on a similar programme at DCU. There should be substantial overlap in content between the two programmes to be considered for a transfer. Results and other supporting documentation must be submitted to CAO by the closing date of 1st July. This is a competitive application process for a small quota of advanced entry places. Offers are made on a rolling basis until all places are filled. Early application is advised. Please note: Applicants should also consider applying through the appropriate route for first year entry to the programme they are interested in. This application process is only for advanced entry.

Direct entry into third year is possible for well-motivated students holding a first class honours or equivalent at NFQ level 6, 7 or 8.

International Applications

International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here.

English Program Requirements

Undergraduate Applicants - Minimum English Standards

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of equivalent competence in English Language, through their school leaving examination or in a recognised English language test. The minimum standards for entry to DCU are outlined below.

Applicants are assessed on the results of a single sitting only.

EXAMINATION

Level Required

Irish Leaving Certificate English

O6/H7

GCE A-Level English Language

Grade D

GSCE

Grade C

IELTS ACADEMIC

Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component.

*Scores must be achieved in one sitting.

TOEFL

237 (computer-based),
580 (paper-based test)

TOEFL iBT

Total Score of 92

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CAP)

Overall score of 180 with a minimum of 169 in all components.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE)

Overall score of 180 with a minimum of 169 in all components.

English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP)

Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)

63 (with a minimum of 59 in all components)

Duolingo

Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each subscore. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU.

Additional Information

Your English language certificate must be awarded within the two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
Scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.

Alternative Requirements/Evidence of Competency

In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language. This may include non-native speakers of English who have completed their education through the medium of English in a country where English is the official language. Please include the details of any English language examinations and proof of successful completion when applying to DCU.

For further details about DCU English Language Requirements, please contact DCU Admissions.

Career

Careers & Further Options

Careers

The expansion in the industrial healthcare sector means that there is a huge demand for a workforce that is equipped with scientific knowledge, particularly in molecular and cellular biology. Your skills in research and development and your ability to undertake management and operational roles in the production of healthcare products will be invaluable to employers.

You will find employment in the many Irish industries that produce medical therapeutics, diagnostics and healthcare devices. Moreover, in recent years there has been significant growth in the production of medical and veterinary diagnostics and vaccines as well as the manufacture of medical devices.

Advances in genetics and cell biology have the potential to transform medical science and to make a significant contribution to improving the quality of life. This degree is the perfect starting point for a career in this area.

Career Areas

DCU graduates are highly sought after by employers. Our Graduates work in environments ranging from large multinationals to SMEs, family businesses and start-ups across every sector.

DCU Careers Service has a number of learning and development initiatives in place for our students, giving them the skills they need for a successful career path.

Go to our Careers site to find out more about career planning, our mentorship programme, skills development and online resources for students when working on CVs and making applications.

Career Prospects

Molecular and cellular biology

Medical Therapeutics

Diagnostics

Healthcare Device Production

Veterinary Diagnostics

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Research and Development

Education